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Exploring Chicago

Flying to my travel spot!
The window seat is the best view on vacation.

Chicago comes alive in spring, offering plenty of activities and attractions for visitors to explore. The city’s parks, architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods make it a must-visit travel destination. I’ve visited Chicago for work and pleasure many times, and these are my top sites to see.

Millennium Park and Cloud Gate

Millennium Park is a top destination in Chicago. It’s home to the famous Cloud Gate, also called “The Bean.” This reflective sculpture draws crowds, perfect for photos and relaxing nearby. In spring, the park’s greenery and flowers bloom, creating a beautiful setting for outdoor walks. The flowers are truly amazing for any photographer!

The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the best art museums in the world. Its impressive collection includes famous works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. Spring is a great time to visit, with special exhibitions often hosted during this season. Art students can be seen during the school year sketching and enjoying the works.

Stroll Along the Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk offers a scenic place to enjoy the city’s stunning architecture. Springtime brings comfortable temperatures for walking along the river. Cafés and restaurants along the Riverwalk open up in the spring, making it a great spot for lunch. Don’t forget the rooftop restaurants that offer a magnificent view of the city as well.

Chicago Architecture Tour

Spring is the perfect time for a Chicago architecture boat tour. This popular attraction provides a unique perspective of the city’s skyscrapers. The guided tours offer fascinating details about Chicago’s architectural history while you cruise along the Chicago River. I’ve taken this tour and walked away with a new appreciation of the city’s buildings and history.

Navy Pier and Lakefront Views

Navy Pier is a lively destination with attractions, shops, and restaurants. In spring, the pier becomes especially vibrant with seasonal events and outdoor entertainment. Enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan from the pier’s Ferris wheel or simply stroll along its promenade.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., and is free to visit. Spring is an ideal time to explore its exhibits, with animals more active in mild weather. The surrounding park is also beautiful, with flowers blooming and fresh greenery.

Magnificent Mile Shopping

The Magnificent Mile is Chicago’s premier shopping district. Springtime brings great window displays and outdoor events to this iconic area. You’ll find everything from luxury brands to unique local shops.  Just window shopping is a treat down this iconic Chicago street.

Chicago offers an exciting mix of culture, history, and entertainment. In spring, the city’s parks, attractions, and neighborhoods provide countless opportunities to explore. Whether admiring art, cruising the river, or enjoying the outdoors, Chicago is an unforgettable destination this season.  Book your trip and enjoy the weather and sites with your family.

Check out more on my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Relocating Out of State

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

Relocating to another state can be an exciting yet challenging experience. The key to a successful move lies in careful planning and execution. Here are some essential steps to ensure a smooth interstate move.  From contacting movers to negotiating contracts, these tips will help you with the transition.

Research and Contact Reliable Movers

The first step is start researching moving companies as early as possible. Look for movers that specialize in interstate moves, as they’ll be more familiar with the logistics and regulations involved. Utilize online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends or family. Finally, be sure to verify the company’s credentials through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Ensure the company is licensed, insured, and has a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number.

Once you’ve shortlisted a few companies, request in-home or virtual estimates. This will provide a more accurate quote based on the volume of items to be moved. Beware of companies that offer lowball estimates, as they might add hidden charges later.

Negotiate and Finalize the Contract

Before signing a contract, thoroughly review all the details. The contract should outline the total cost, services included, & delivery timeline. Most importantly, any additional fees such as packing materials or handling specialty items needs to be detailed in the contract.

Don’t hesitate to negotiate the price. Ask if there are any discounts available, such as for flexible moving dates, military service, or AAA membership.  Prices will go up, but won’t ever go down, so negotiate ahead of the move.

Pay close attention to the type of estimate provided—whether it’s binding, non-binding, or binding-not-to-exceed. A binding estimate guarantees the final cost won’t exceed the quoted amount, which can provide peace of mind.

Additionally, ask about the company’s claims process in case of damage or loss during the move. Understanding this beforehand will save you time and frustration if issues arise. Read the fine print and be prepared just in case something unexpected happens during the trip.

Plan for a Smooth Moving Day

In the weeks leading up to the move, create a detailed moving checklist. This should include tasks such as updating your address with the post office, transferring utilities, and securing important documents. Declutter your home by selling, donating, or discarding items you no longer need. This can also reduce your moving costs quite a bit.

On moving day, have a bag packed with essentials like toiletries, medications, important documents, and a change of clothes. This ensures you have everything you need during transit, while waiting for your belongings to arrive at your new home.

Stay Organized and Communicate

Maintain clear communication with your movers. Confirm details like the arrival time, delivery window, and any special instructions for your belongings. Keep a copy of the contract and inventory list handy in case of discrepancies.

Finally, just being patient and positive with the moving company will help your stress level. Unexpected events can happen out of the ordinary, like weather or traffic which affect the movers’ timeline.

Moving to another state is a significant life event, but with proper preparation, it can be a stress-free experience. By researching, creating a detailed plan, and staying organized, you can ensure your move goes smoothly. This will allow you to focus on settling into your new home.

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Library Interview

Graphic with the words Libraries are for Everyone

When interviewing for a library job, asking insightful questions can demonstrate your interest in the role and help you gain a better understanding of the organization’s culture, expectations, and opportunities for growth. Here are three key questions to consider asking during your library job interview:

  1. What initiatives is the library currently undertaking to engage the community and promote literacy?

Libraries play a vital role in fostering community engagement and promoting literacy. By asking about the library’s current initiatives in these areas, you can gain insight into its commitment to serving the community. You can also determine their overriding educational and political goals. Pay attention to the interviewer’s response—are they enthusiastic about the library’s outreach efforts, or do they seem uncertain? Their answer can provide valuable information about the library’s priorities. It also signals how you can contribute to its mission (or not.)

  1. How does the library support professional development and continuing education for its staff?

Professional development is essential for staying current in the library field and advancing your career. By asking about opportunities for professional development and continuing education, you can demonstrate your commitment to growth and learning.

Listen for information about training programs, conferences, workshops, and other resources available to staff. Additionally, ask about mentorship opportunities and career advancement paths within the library. Understanding how the library supports staff development can help you assess whether it aligns with your own career goals and aspirations.

  1. What is the library’s approach to incorporating technology and digital resources into its services?

In today’s digital age, libraries are increasingly embracing technology and digital resources to enhance their services and meet the needs of patrons. By asking about the library’s approach to technology, you can gain insight into its readiness to adapt to changing trends and innovations in the field. You also will be able to detect funding issues that might arise. Budgets have always been an issue in every library I’ve every worked in.

Pay attention to how the interviewer discusses the library’s use of technology—are they proactive about integrating digital resources, or do they seem hesitant? Their answer can provide valuable information about the library’s vision for the future and how you can contribute to its technological initiatives.

Asking thoughtful questions during your library job interview can help you gain valuable insight into the organization’s culture, opportunities for professional development, and approach to technology. By demonstrating your interest and engagement, you can leave a positive impression on your interviewer.  You can also make an informed decision about whether the library is the right fit for you too.

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Let Things Go

"Be wary of Negative People..."

I had to share the latest book I read, “How to Let Things Go, 99 Tips…” by Shunmyo Mansuno. Simple and valuable nuggets I found helpful to get us through challenging and good times.

Character

The way you handle difficult people show a great deal about your character and value system. Do you let the little things get to you or worry a lot? If you tend to focus on what “can go wrong,” vs. allowing life to happen, listen up.  Mansuno, who is also a Buddhist Monk, provides reminders on “…relinquishing anxiety, impatience, and anger.”

You are in control of your own emotions and the reaction to personal situations, nothing else. If worry about every scenario that “could happen,” you’re wasting valuable energy.

Let life happen, but be smart about it. Suggestions include, “moderating your expectations.”  Not everything will go your way in life. So be humble, and let me say that again, just be humble.

Social Media

What you see on social media is the 2%-5% of the “great” that is happening in people’s lives. The author suggests that people knowing about 50% (or even 30%) is a healthy way to live.  Keep your life private for peace of mind.

We don’t need to know everything, and it keeps the pressure off of you to be “picture perfect.”  Everyone has something they are dealing with, that we don’t know about it.  And that’s just fine, and it’s a healthy way to go through life.

Accountability

Finally, do what you’ll say you are going to do.  “Don’t push things off until tomorrow,” we’re reminded.  You can tell a person’s true intentions by what “they do” not what they say. So just do it, and live your life with integrity and accountability.

That also goes for taking responsibility when things don’t work out, or you make a mistake. We learn more from our mistakes than we do from our successes, always.

And surrounding yourself with people that lift you up and support you will help you all through life.  As the authors reminds us, “Be wary of negative people.”  Positivity and kindness will be habits for life to help during the bad times and nurture you in good times.

So, what is your “go to” to help others navigate this changing world?

For more living well, tips check out my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Expectations for 2025

Setting Expectations for 2025

Photo by No Revisions on Unsplash

With 2025 and a new year in front of us, we tend to reflect on past achievements, setbacks, and experiences. The transition from one year to the next presents a unique opportunity to redefine priorities and set clear expectations for the year ahead. In 2025, establishing personal and professional goals with concrete expectations can have a profound impact on success, motivation, and overall well-being.

Creating Clarity and Direction

Setting expectations provides a sense of clarity. Without a clear sense of where we want to go, it’s easy to become distracted or overwhelmed by the demands of daily life. In a fast-paced world where new opportunities and challenges arise constantly, defining what you expect from yourself and the year ahead helps to maintain focus. This clarity allows you to direct your energy toward meaningful endeavors rather than being swayed by distractions.

Accountability

When you set expectations for the year, you also build in a system of accountability. Expectations function as a form of self-contract, a commitment you make to yourself about what you aim to achieve. Whether your goals are related to career advancement, personal growth, or wellness, establishing these goals helps keep you accountable. Regularly checking in with these expectations can also serve as a powerful motivator, prompting you to reassess and adjust. Whether it’s a financial goal or career-focused achievement, keep re-assessing your progress.

Managing Stress and Burnout

Photo by Chelsea Gates on Unsplash

In a world that often prioritizes constant productivity, it’s easy to push yourself to extremes. However, unrealistic expectations can lead to stress and burnout. Setting balanced expectations that account for both ambition and personal well-being is crucial. For 2025, it’s important to not only set high aspirations but also to be mindful of your limits. This balanced approach helps maintain both mental and physical health, allowing you to avoid burnout and approach your goals sustainably.

Enhancing Personal Growth

Setting expectations is also a pathway to personal development. By clearly defining what you want to achieve, you give yourself the chance to grow in specific areas. Whether it’s developing a new skill, improving relationships, or achieving financial goals, having expectations pushes you out of your comfort zone. Growth doesn’t happen by accident — it’s the result of intentional effort and persistence. Both of these are supported by your well-defined expectations.

2025 offers a fresh start, and setting expectations is a powerful way to ensure that the year is filled with purpose, direction, and growth. By taking the time to reflect on your goals, you can create a roadmap for success that keeps you accountable and balanced throughout the year.

For more living well tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Holiday Recipes

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

Holiday recipes will not be the same as the “recipes” I shared for the Thanksgiving holiday. These recipes are how to celebrate the holidays to bring you joy this year and next. Here are a few ideas to make this holiday season shine!

Work Reflection

Reflecting on the past year during this time brings great comfort and clarification of the past 11 to 12 months.  What work goals did you achieve?  What new goals for your career will you begin?  Think about the changes in your job and home life you had this year; was it beneficial? Out of your control?  This is the time to set your path on what you’ll be focusing on for 2025 in your career.

Relationships

Relationships, like life, are always changing. What relationships would you like to nurture next year or pull away from?  As you grow, your relationships will change with you as your boundaries grow and are defined.

When I was a mom with your kids, my circle of friends were other moms from our play group. As my children grew, my friendships changed too. Work relationships and my friends from the gym become my focus, as my kids gained their own circle of friends. Getting out there making new friends feels good and is healthy.

Health

Health and wellness are always important, so a recipe for success always starts with your self-care first.  Look at your nutrition, physical exercise, and mindset to create a path to wellness. Stress can be the biggest obstacle to positive mental and physical fitness. Your mind can make or break you, so meditation and taking time for yourself is important for a healthy outlook. A 15- minute walk after dinner or before you set off for work in the morning helps clear your mind.

There is no tried and true path for a happy life, but there are “recipes” to help you learn, grow, and thrive every year. Taking this time during the holidays to re-evaluate habits in your life that need focus will help.  Life is about change, and I hope yours is positive and productive.

For more living well, tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Career Transitions

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

Transitioning in your career can be both exciting and scary. Whether you’re seeking new challenges, better opportunities, or pursuing a passion, shifting careers requires thoughtful planning and strategic actions. From gaining the necessary education to building a strong network, here’s how to successfully navigate a career change.

Education and Skill Development

Education is often the first step in a career transition, especially if you’re moving into a completely new field. Start by assessing the skills you already have and identifying the gaps you need to fill. Research the skills required for your desired career and consider enrolling in relevant courses, certifications, or even degree programs. Online learning platforms offer flexibility, allowing you to upskill while maintaining your current job.

In some cases, you might not need formal education but rather specialized training or workshops that offer practical, hands-on experience. Look for opportunities to gain experience through internships, volunteering, or part-time work in your new field. This not only enhances your resume but also gives you a taste of what the job entails, helping you determine if it’s the right fit.

 Networking

Networking is crucial when transitioning careers. Building relationships with professionals in your target industry can open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised. Start by attending industry events, seminars, and webinars where you can meet and learn from others in the field. LinkedIn is also a powerful tool for networking. You need to connect with individuals in your desired industry, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions to establish yourself. It’s scary at first, but take it from me you meet so many good people via LinkedIn.

Informational interviews are another valuable resource. Reach out to professionals in your target industry to learn more about their career paths, challenges, and the skills required. These conversations can provide insights and guidance that are invaluable during a career transition.

Embracing a Total Career Change

A complete career change can be intimidating, but with careful planning, it’s achievable. Start by doing a self-assessment to understand your motivations for the change. Identify what you’re passionate about, what skills you excel in, and how these can be applied to a new field. This self-awareness is crucial in making informed decisions about your next steps.

Once you’ve identified your new career path, begin laying the groundwork. Update your resume to highlight transferable skills and any relevant experience. Consider creating a portfolio that showcases your work, particularly if you’re moving into a creative or technical field. Tailor your cover letters and applications to reflect your enthusiasm for the new field and your readiness to contribute.

Taking the Leap

Finally, transitioning in your career requires courage and resilience. It’s important to set realistic expectations and be prepared for challenges along the way. Consider taking small steps towards your goal, such as starting in a related role before fully transitioning, to ease the process.

Remember, career transitions are a journey. By investing in education, expanding your network, and embracing change, you can successfully navigate the path to a new career. Keep an open mind, stay patient, and trust in your ability to adapt and grow.  You’ve got this!

For more career tips check my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Career Wisdom

Leadership written in blue and hand writing the word visible.

As you progress in your career you pick up morsels of wisdom. Recently I found a post by a former journalist and leader that I enjoyed reading.  Here are few “bite-size” morsels to help you navigate your career.

Harvey Mackay is a self-made business person and wise mentor sharing his experience.

For example, he was quoted, “Don’t just mark time; use time to make your mark.” I liken Harvey’s wisdom to that of James Clear’s career advice.  Clear is known for his best-selling book, “Atomic Habits” and routinely speaks at Fortune 500 gatherings and keynotes.

The times and mode of communication have changed. James’ profile on LinkedIn has thousands of followers. Harvey was syndicated in national newspapers for years. However, the common sense habits and “grit” needed to succeed, then and now, are the same.

Another bit of “Harvey wisdom,” reads like something out of Clear’s current playbook. “Technology should improve your life, not become your life.”  Compared to James Clear’s recent quote:

 “Simple ways to have a peaceful moment:

-Close your eyes and just breathe for two minutes.

-Leave your phone in another room for an hour…”

So, my point is wisdom comes in all forms and changes slightly over time. But really, your experiences shape the person you want to be and will become. Kindness, consistency, and putting the work in will result in rewards.  Rewards of goals achieved, dreams realized, and what success looks like for you.

Life is full of mishaps, fun, and opportunities. Be ready for what comes your way. As Harvey stated, “How people play the game shows something of their character. How they lose shows all of it.”  Food for thought…

For more career advice check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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It’s Not You

Yellowstone Lake - Nature is rejuvenating
Wishing you calm and happiness this season

After reading Dr. Ramani Durvasula’s new book, “It’s Not You: Identifying and Healing from Narcissistic People,” I had to share. This book is life affirming if you need to understand why “bad things” happen to you and motivators of narcissists. Dr. Durvasula also provides extensive strategies for healing and dealing with these highly manipulative and vengeful people.

Who Are They? 

We don’t know why people act the way they do to hurt others. It’s a diagnosed personality disorder that is finally getting the attention it needs. The definition of a narcissistic goes beyond just wanting their way all the time or being powerful.  It’s about people you have in your life, that abuse and shift blame by gaslighting, manipulating, and lying without remorse.

“Nothing is ever their responsibility or their fault because for a narcissistic person to take responsibility or accept blame means having to accept that they are accountable and imperfect.”

There are varying levels of abusive behaviors outlined, some classified as “malignant narcissists.”

They malign people publicly, or harm their reputations. They are highly manipulative, transactional, and judge everyone based on how useful they are – whether for power, profits, pleasure, or validation. In the simplest framing, the malignant narcissist is a bully, mean and menacing…”

You will recognize the examples used in your own family or workplace relationships. You will also understand how often these behaviors happen and go unchecked in society. The focus is never really on the narcissistic, but more on the actions of the victims being abused.  Almost as if the victim has something wrong with them, despite the facts not adding up from narcissist’s manipulated account.

How Does It Happen?

If you are in an abusive relationship, the obvious answer is to leave. But it’s not always that simple. Dr. Durvasula provides examples where it’s just not possible to leave a job, marriage or other important relationship despite abuse. The victim talks themselves out of it, thinks THEY are the reason that these “bad things” are happening.

Victims routinely believe the manufactured and false narratives about what is taking place due to other silent and compliant people.  It boils down to trust. When those closest to you break that trust and know what’s really going on but do nothing, that’s your truth.

“In other words, narcissistic people make you feel small so they can feel safe.” 

These narcissists get something from their victims while “love bombing,” charming them, and prioritizing the relationship.  When the victim realizes what is actually going on and sets boundaries and reveals the truth, all hell breaks loose.  

“Hell, really hath no fury like a narcissist scorned. Their vindictive behavior may range from spreading damaging workplace gossip” to other more harmful and life threating outcomes.

Be warned, that stalking and public humiliation of their victims is quite commonplace for these individuals. Their tactics escalate when their victims pull away or start understanding the truth about past events. 

How to Protect Yourself 

There are many strategies discussed in the book to combat DARVO, or the common methods narcissists use.  (That’s a very useful chapter.) You should also try to distance yourself spiritually or physically from your abuser(s.) If you must stay in a relationship for work or family reasons, sound strategies are provided. These will help you heal and learn to deal with these negative people. As the author states, you will be better informed the next time you come across these individuals. And you most definitely will!

The healing that takes place when you know you’re not the crazy one is incredible. Narcissist behaviors happen daily to so many of us, but now you have a voice…an authentic voice.

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Strategies for Work

Shelves of books to promote reading and self-care.
Books make me happy!

 

As we navigate work, the landscape of career development continues to evolve at a rapid pace. With technological advancements, shifting job markets, and the rise of remote work, professionals must be more strategic and adaptable than ever. Here are key strategies and habits to effectively navigate your career goals this year.

Lifelong Learning

The importance of continuous learning cannot be overstated. With industries rapidly changing, staying updated with the latest skills and knowledge is crucial. Enroll in online courses, attend workshops, and pursue certifications relevant to your field. Lifelong learning not only keeps you competitive but also opens up new opportunities for career advancement.

Technology is Vital

Technology is a driving force in the modern workplace. Familiarize yourself with digital tools and platforms that can enhance your productivity and efficiency. From project management software to data analysis tools, being tech-savvy can give you a significant edge.

Additionally, building a strong online presence through LinkedIn and other professional networks can help you connect with industry leaders and potential employers.

Adapt to Hybrid Work

The shift to remote and hybrid work models is here to stay. Develop strong self-discipline, time management, and communication skills to thrive in these environments.

Create a dedicated workspace and establish a routine that fosters productivity. Being adaptable and comfortable with virtual collaboration tools is essential for success in a remote or hybrid setup.

Network

Networking remains a critical component of career development. Attend industry conferences, join professional associations, and participate in online forums. Networking helps you stay informed about industry trends, gain insights from peers, and discover job opportunities. Building a diverse professional network can provide support and guidance throughout your career journey.

Set Clear Goals

Define your career goals with clarity. Whether aiming for a promotion or starting your own business, setting specific measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals is essential. Break down your long-term goals into smaller, manageable steps and track your progress regularly.

Seek Coaching

Mentors and career coaches can provide valuable guidance and support. They can help you navigate challenges, identify strengths and weaknesses, and develop a clear career path. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced professionals who can offer insights based on their own career journeys.

Navigating career goals requires an adaptive mindset. By embracing lifelong learning, leveraging technology, networking actively, setting clear goals, and seeking mentorship, you can succeed at a new job. Change will enable you to achieve your career goals and thrive in an ever-evolving world.