The INNOVATION challenge

It is a verb, and it means, "make changes in something established, especially by introducing new methods, ideas, or products."

My background includes working as an instructional designer, trainer and more. When I created EDIT L&D, I focused on four key words: empower, design, INNOVATE and transform. Part of the coaching experience is about owning your own life - your strengths, weaknesses, life experiences and how they have all influenced you. Once you have become empowered and designed the life you want to live, the next step is to innovate and begin making the changes that are necessary to achieve your goals.

Whether this is changing the way that you are living your life, redesigning the way that you train your team, or changing your professional path, innovation will be at the core of that change. Each step forward will cause you to try something new, to question the way you have done things in the past, and to consider new approaches.

Begin the process by starting your day with purpose. When the alarm goes off, get up and start your day intentionally. Exercise, review your to do list, and prepare for your day before you start working. Take the time to set yourself up for success throughout your day.

Change the way you approach your tasks, goals and priorities. Take the negative self-talk, doubts and fears that hold you back and put them to the side. Give yourself a new focus - innovation. You can make changes to the way you have done things in the past by introducing new methods, ideas or processes. This is true of your professional and personal life. If you are struggling with your business, try something different, something that makes you uncomfortable. Step outside your comfort zone and go for it.

Change is a word that can make us uncomfortable. Perhaps, the way you do things feels safe, is the only way you know how to do things, or you just don't like change. Maybe you are open to change, but only the changes that feel safe to you. Whatever the reason you are avoiding making changes, I challenge you to make one small change today. Get up 30 minutes earlier, or go for a 30 minute walk before you start your day, or spend time praying, journaling or meditating. Whatever you choose, each step will help to you move towards something new. If these examples wouldn't be a change for you, try something different. Speak up in a meeting at work, talk to a stranger in the break room, or apply for a job that you aren't sure you are ready for.

You've got this - you are capable of doing anything if you believe in yourself. Innovate!