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Growth Mindset

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

Learning from mistakes and adopting a growth mindset are important for achieving success in both personal and professional goals. Embracing these principles not only increases resilience but also fosters continuous improvement and development.

A growth mindset, a concept popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and learning. Individuals with a growth mindset view challenges as opportunities to grow rather than obstacles. This perspective encourages them to take risks and embrace new experiences, knowing that mistakes are part of the learning process.

Mistakes, while often viewed negatively, are valuable learning opportunities. When individuals make errors, they gain insights that can lead to better decision-making in the future. Instead of dwelling on failures, those with a growth mindset analyze what went wrong and why. This reflective process encourages a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. This allows them to adjust their strategies and methods moving forward.

Furthermore, learning from mistakes promotes resilience. Instead of feeling defeated by setbacks, individuals can cultivate a sense of perseverance. Each mistake can be reframed as a stepping stone toward success. This resilience is essential in a world where challenges and failures are unavoidable. By developing the ability to bounce back, individuals can maintain motivation and continue working toward their goals.

A growth mindset also encourages a love of learning. Individuals become curious and open to feedback, seeking out opportunities for growth and improvement. This eagerness to learn can lead to the development of new skills and a deeper understanding of one’s field. As individuals continue to expand their knowledge and abilities, they position themselves for greater success.

In addition, cultivating a growth mindset promotes collaboration and support among peers. When individuals are open about their mistakes and willing to learn from each other, it creates an environment of trust and innovation. Team members are more likely to share ideas and take risks, leading to collective growth and success.

Learning from mistakes and embracing a growth mindset are vital for achieving success. By viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, individuals can develop resilience, foster a love of learning, and enhance collaboration. This approach not only leads to personal development but also contributes to a more innovative and dynamic environment. This sets the stage for lasting success in your career and personal life.

For more check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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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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kathyhusser Travel work

Experiencing Spain

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

My recent trip to Spain this year was an eye-opening experience! Not just from a travel perspective, rather experiencing a foreign country gave me hope along with new stories to tell.

Future Advances

Visiting Spain allowed me to see the results of future advances in transportation, crowd management, and lifestyle.  The public transportation system in Spain, especially Barcelona, is easy to navigate and ADA-friendly. With elevators at most stops, recessed curbs, and clean stations locals use the tram, train, and subway (Metro) lines exclusively. Plus, there was a high percentage of electric vehicles, which meant less petrol (gas) stations, smog, and noise.

The tourist sites, while busy, were easily managed with online pre-ticketed sales. No ticket, no entry if the quota for the day was already met. On top of that, residents were very friendly and kind despite my 2 years of high school Spanish. Citizens were helpful and took pride in their city and professions.  You got a feeling of National pride from the Spanish people which resonated the entire trip.

History Revisited

The history dates back to Roman Times, 300 B.C. Spain’s rich history has held space for wars, communism, and the monarchy. Today, the future Queen of Spain is in her second year of military service to her country. The archives, architecture, and lessons learned have not been without growing pains or evolution. But the evolution is present and felt throughout your interactions with people.

The population is concentrated in the cities, but a vast agricultural community keeps the food prices reasonable and fresh. I’ve never tasted such sweet tomatoes or such rich creamy butter. Plus, eggs were $2.85 a dozen! There’s something to say for their proximity to other European resources, and it shows in the Spanish food.

Finally, I would say from a travel perspective it provided hope for me personally. To see a thriving country, with low food costs, a content nation, and smart innovations for their citizens. I can see why many foreigners flock to Spain to experience the lifestyle. And why taxes are levied to keep the cities clean and stabilized. Put Spain on your travel list this year, and you won’t regret it.

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career Health hr Librarian & Entrepreneurship Library Jobs Library Leadership work

Listening is Important

Leadership written in blue and hand writing the word visible.

Listening skills are probably the most important skill behind reading. Learning to listen, and actively hear what is said is also essential. Below are steps to take if you need help listening to what people REALLY say to you.

Active Listening

Active listening is hearing the other person for understanding. However, most of us listen to be able to react or frame a response quickly. Don’t do that!  Don’t listen for yourself to answer, listen to understand. You will gain far more insight into your speaker, by letting them talk. Hear what words they choose and how they say those words. Active listening takes effort, but you learn far more about what’s said when you are engaged and hearing the other person.

Body language

So, you’re probably thinking, but I’m on the phone, and can’t “see” my speaker. But you can! Listen for inflection, tone, and the speed of the speaker’s speech. Usually, someone upset or in “fight mode” will speak quickly and emotionally. Someone calm and measured in their speech is under control of their emotions. When you are at work, even remotely, you can listen and pick up ques in the person’s speech.

A rational speaker is usually easier to understand motive, even over a phone call. Body language goes beyond “seeing” the speaker but again actively listening to “how” the speaker is engaging with you.

Responding After Listening

You are now asking, so when DO I need to respond? If you have an upset friend and listening to them about a bad experience, sometimes never. No response is a response in this type of situation. As humans, we want to solve problems, but sometimes it’s best to just listen. Listening with an open mind and heart to fully understand the other person takes a lot of effort.

And sometimes you might never understand the person’s motives or true feelings, but you were there for them. Sometimes just being a friend and confidante is all that is needed in the moment, and active listening is key.

Practice makes permanent, so try just listening for a change. Don’t interrupt and truly listen to the other person on the phone, on Zoom, or sitting with you. The more you practice actively listening, reading body language, and understanding your listener the better you become.

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

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Travel

Travel Smart

Single hand holding a small book in a library.
Read up and start opening up your mind.

If you’re curious what the best books and resources a traveling librarian recommends, read on. From choosing your destination to memoirs, pick the smartest resources that will meet your travel needs and help you navigate your trip.

Travel Guides – Think Maps

As a visual learner, who loves photos, I enjoy DK Eyewitness Travel books. These travel titles always have helpful maps and tons of current pictures.  The location is researched and updated almost yearly and many of the books can be checked out at your library!  Library cards are free of charge, and many books can also be renewed. So, take your travel guide with you and have a free resource at your fingertips. Check out other locations before you travel by visiting your local library, and the travel guides available.

Memoirs on Travel

If you’re the type of traveler, who wants to experience a place you’ve read about, then check out these books. Loosely based on the writers’ personal experiences, you’ll also get a true feel of the destination before you travel.  “Under the Tuscan Sun” is a transformative book about Italy and finding yourself. Another book, “Eat, Pray, Love” also set in Italy explores the regional cuisine. You get the idea. Visit your library, and search “travel fiction” and you will be surprised how many novels based on real life travel exist.

Elephant Journal Website

This website is a writer’s haven, and I love posting my travel articles here. There is also a treasure trove of travel experiences and ideas available for trips. What makes Elephant Journal unique is it’s also a free resource with a very personal spin on the experiences. Just search for Travel or Family Travel and articles will appear that meet your criteria. I’ve personally learned some great ideas for winter travel and unique destinations. Learning  about different travel adventures or hidden gems during a trip is what you’ll find by reading Elephant Journal.

Word of Mouth

Finally, ask your friends, family, and coworkers where they’ve gone and enjoyed the most. Word of Mouth has been the best resource to learn about kid friendly spots and the times of year to travel. Be aware that someone’s best vacation, might not be yours. So, go into your travel discussions with an open mind and expectations that suit your family and travel budget. Your best vacation might be just around the corner after that business lunch. Enjoy and safe travels!