A vulnerable and very human share— sucked me in.

Greetings from Mexico, where I am currently attending the Modern Elder Academy—a place where people come to revisit ideas about midlife, their careers, and what’s next.

I first read about this academy thanks to a LinkedIn post by Chip Conley a few months back when he was bearing his soul and sharing about how hard it was to go through chemical menopause (yes, you read that right). Curious and inspired to learn more about his journey and this academy— I reached out to co-founder Christine Sperber to hear about how this team was creating a space where those in midlife transition could reframe and validate their experience.

Christine suggested the best way to truly understand the offering was to dive right in… so I booked a week featuring the legendary human Stacy Peralta as the guest facilitator. Stacy was a pro skateboarder, surfer, entrepreneur and successful film maker… but most of all Stacy is a champion of souls living to the max.

Being here, surrounded by beauty and witnessing expert facilitators like Christine in her element, has been an exhale. (I even got to meet the inspirational Chip Conley and yes… i totally fan-girled him.)

The daily “classroom sessions” remind me of the power of vulnerability and how it contributes to building authentic connections and trust both at retreats like this, but also in any business meeting room, on zoom or off.

But who does that at work? Who is going to be open about their struggles and face possible judgment or ridicule at the office? Some would say only the brave. I would suggest it’s only those who are mentally fit and who understand that being self-aware, or having a higher EQ, really is the gateway to better leadership, teamwork and a great sense of self-worth.

I have been using the Positive Intelligence App (have you heard of it?) for almost two years, and the daily dive into mindfulness backed by science has reduced my anxiety, stress, and boosted my ability to take on new challenges. By 14%! At Modern Elder Academy, we are talking about the neuroscience of mindfulness and many attendees are realizing they too need to re-up their support practices.

I wonder - what kind of mindfulness practices are you using?

Are you doing them regularly?

How are you feeling?