Personal Development

Polish Your Personal Brand – and reap the benefits!  Every one of us has a personal brand, and whether or not we realize it, it’s broadcasting to the world each moment who we are: how we do business, how we deal with conflict or stress, the type of intern or employee we’d make—even the type of friend we’re likely to be. Social media, uploading our lives and an overall blurring of boundaries means our brand is on display constantly. This session will explore small gestures with big impact: the interactive “giveaways” we often don’t know we’re conveying to others. Do they boost you, or betray you? Show the world your best self. You’ll leave with top tips for authentically conveying your best—in person, online, at networking events, and job interviews, plus some key ideas for being on camera. Whatever the setting, your brand will shine through! Embracing Difference: Growth comes when we learn to be accepting of others who are different to us. But before we can stretch, it helps to explore our comfort zone. What assumptions do we make about members of other communities? What are they based on: movies, childhood experiences, sports, news headlines?  What assumptions do we make in regard to lifestyle choices, belief systems and abilities? What differences – seen and unseen – are present? Crucially, what common ground so we have? How does the role of intent shape our approach? and are these assumptions, fair, true or accurate? Let’s consider the language we use, the action or inaction taken, the value judgements we make,  and the feelings (especially fear) generated when we interact with others – or perhaps, why we choose not to interact. We wrap up with simple, safe ways to widen our exposure to diversity: on mission, on campus, in our own backyard. Navigating Change: If there’s one constant in life, it’s change. Sometimes we choose it: a new campus, a, new city, a new relationship. But change can be scary, even when we want it. Other times, it can seem like change is forced on us: a parent remarries, or we get transferred, or a surprise pregnancy announces itself.  But in that state of flux, lies opportunities loaded with potential—to grow, to challenge ourselves, to discover hidden strengths and passions. We’ll explore myriad ways to embrace change today, from small tweaks in our daily routines, to moderate stretches in how we communicate, to times when we fully reach out, and stand out of our comfort zone. It’s in these moments that we harness the power and promise of change: to tap a new side to ourselves and to get more—much more—out of life. Is There a Book in You?  So many of us yearn to write—be it short stories, our family history, a memoir or the next great novel. Alicia discusses the journey of her book, The Savvy Girl’s Guide to Grace, covers vital tips for first-time authors, and provides an overview of the publishing options available to you. Authors have never enjoyed so many ways to get their voice heard. Don’t let that manuscript gather dust in a drawer! Volunteer Work Around the World: Achieving a work/life balance is a work in progress for almost all of us! Alicia shows how easily we can make a difference in our communities and in other countries. She has worked for Mother Teresa at a Calcutta hospice (where she experienced an unforgettable Christmas), and a leprosy hospital. There, she also assisted a mobile clinic for basic medical care: imagine an abandoned railway station overflowing with people—and with wild boar roaming about. Elsewhere in Asia, Alicia worked at an orphanage in Jakarta, Indonesia, and later, at a seniors’ center in Chile. Make an impact with your next vacation, semester abroad, or even an “Adult Gap Year”. The Joy of Expanding Your Comfort Zone:   From a growing trend of adult “Gap Years” to a sabbatical, many of us reach a point where we crave change in some part of our life. Some pine for a whole new adventure, others desire a gentle tweak of their routine, their career—or their mindset. Alicia talks about her move from social worker to international news anchor, to award-winning writer & publisher. She has also volunteered in India at a hospice and leprosy hospital, and has relocated to Chile, Moscow and SE Asia. Hear how you can apply those skills and insights to your own life. Parachuting into a New Life: Imagine parachuting into a new city, county or culture—knowing no one. Perhaps you have secured an international assignment through your work. Maybe you’re a trailing spouse. Or it might be that you’re exploring options for a semester abroad. How do you make a start, and what essential tools do you need to get you started? Alicia has relocated from Australia, to the US, UK, Russia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Chile. She explores simple steps and vital preparation before you ever pack, and how to keep your sanity and sense of humor in those early days. We’ll explore how to forge networks, develop friendships—and the delights that await you when you step out of the “expat bubble.” Kindness—The New Black: It seems like we’re more logged on than ever, but less connected. Rediscover simple ways to tap grace and kindness amid the rush our modern life. We explore small courtesies and the role they can play in our lives—as well as easy strategies to inspire the same in others. We’ll also look at gratitude—a simple, yet powerful tool to make a difference in our daily lives. Customized Topic: Alicia would be delighted to work with your organization, campus or club to build a theme that reflects your particular interest. Travel: Alicia travels throughout North America and overseas for speaking engagements and other presentations.