Have you ever faced a situation where every decision could be the difference between success and failure? Imagine making these choices under the ocean's surface, in a submarine, where the margin for error is razor-thin. This is the world Ex Commodore Peter Scott of the Royal Australian Navy knows all too well.

In a recent conversation, Scott shared an experience that could easily be a script for a Hollywood thriller: the day he ran HMAS Collins aground. "We were screaming along the bottom, ripping underwater fittings and paint off," Scott recalls, painting a vivid picture of a high-stakes scenario. How would you respond in such a crisis?

Watch replay here

Scott's response was not about asserting control or diving into complex technicalities. Instead, it was about clarity and acceptance. "I just said one thing. I said, 'We're aground.' That little bit of clarity and acceptance of reality... they just immediately went, 'Oh, we're aground. We know the EOPs [Emergency Operating Procedures].'"

Isn't it fascinating how simplicity can be powerful in chaos?

But here's the kicker: Scott believes that every two years, the Navy prepared him for such transitions, each new job being a step into the unknown. "It's just a step in a different direction... I've actually got a bit of autonomy," he explains. How often do we view our career transitions as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles?

Scott's experiences underline a fundamental truth about leadership: It's less about wielding power and more about instilling confidence and clarity in your team. "It was just they just needed to know the situation as simply and clearly as I can place it," he says.

So, as we navigate our professional and personal submarines through the murky waters of uncertainty, let's ask ourselves: How can we apply Scott's lessons of simplicity, clarity, and self-confidence to our own high-stakes situations? Remember, sometimes, the power lies not in the complexity of our commands but in the simplicity of our communication.

As Scott's journey shows, the depths of the ocean can teach us a lot about rising to the surface in leadership. What will your next dive uncover? 🌊🌟

Click the link below to watch the full replay of the show

Understanding Where Businesses Stumble in DE&I Efforts

In an eye-opening video discussion with Yvonne Kelly from Glow Up Careers, we delve into a critical yet often overlooked aspect of business success: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I). Many businesses profess commitment to DE&I, but how many truly succeed? This conversation explores the pitfalls and missteps businesses often encounter.

The Subtle Traps of Unconscious Bias and Inadequate Strategies

Yvonne Kelly uncovers the layers of unconscious biases that permeate corporate cultures, often unnoticed. These biases are not just about workforce diversity but also about the ingrained habits and perceptions that hinder true inclusivity. Drawing inspiration from James Clear's 'Atomic Habits', the discussion highlights how habitual thinking patterns can obstruct DE&I efforts.

Real Stories, Real Failures, and Real Lessons

The conversation brings to light real-life stories that exemplify where businesses go wrong in their DE&I journey. From the experiences of migrants like Anna Das Gupta to those of refugees, these narratives expose the gaps between well-intentioned policies and their practical implementation.

A Misguided Approach to DE&I

One critical point Yvonne emphasises is the superficial approach many companies take toward DE&I. Celebrating diversity during specific events or through token gestures is not enough. The conversation challenges businesses to move beyond performative actions to foster genuine inclusivity.

The Risk of Complacency in DE&I

The video serves as a wake-up call for businesses that are complacent in their DE&I efforts. It's not enough to have diverse teams; what matters is how these teams are integrated, valued, and heard within the organisation. Yvonne Kelly urges businesses to actively confront and dismantle the structural barriers that impede true equity and inclusion.

A Must-Watch for Forward-Thinking Businesses

For businesses aiming to make a real difference in their DE&I initiatives, this video is an essential watch. It's a resource for understanding the common failures in DE&I efforts and learning how to address them effectively.

Be Part of the Solution

Watching this conversation should be the first step in a larger journey of transformation. We encourage business leaders and teams to reflect on their DE&I practices, identify areas of improvement, and commit to making meaningful changes.

Join Us in Making DE&I a Reality

We invite you to watch this insightful 'snackable' conversation with Yvonne Kelly. Let it be the catalyst for change in your organisation's approach to DE&I.

If you want to watch the full episode you can here

Share your experiences, learn from others, and contribute to building a truly inclusive business landscape.

Embracing Your Strengths: The Key to Unsticking Your Career

In a recent enlightening session with Charlotte Blair, author of "Career Unstuck," a profound insight emerged that could be a game-changer for many of us trapped in career limbo: the power of identifying and harnessing your strengths. This article delves into this insight, punctuated with wisdom from Charlotte herself, and invites you to explore the replay of this transformative discussion.

Understanding Your Core Strengths

"On a scale of one to ten, how much do you love your job?" Charlotte poses this simple yet powerful question. It's a moment of introspection, asking us to evaluate not just our job satisfaction but to dig deeper into what fuels our professional joy. As Charlotte explains, "Often it's sad how low that number is for people. But understanding your strengths can change that."

The Journey to Self-Discovery

Charlotte's approach is deeply rooted in self-awareness. "Discovering your strengths isn't just about skills," she says. "It's about understanding what makes you uniquely you at work." This journey of self-discovery is crucial. It’s about recognizing that what you're inherently good at can become your professional superpower.

The Misconception About Weaknesses

There's a common trap here – focusing too much on our weaknesses. Charlotte advises against this, emphasizing, "Focus on your strengths, not your weaknesses." The idea is to leverage what you're naturally good at to create a fulfilling career path, rather than being bogged down by areas where you don't excel.

Applying Strengths to Career Growth

How do you use this self-knowledge for career advancement? Charlotte's answer is straightforward yet impactful: "Align your job role with your strengths." She stresses the importance of finding roles that not only challenge you but also allow you to use your best qualities daily.

When Strength Meets Opportunity

Charlotte shares success stories from her coaching experience, where individuals transformed their careers by aligning them with their strengths. "It's like watching someone find their true north," she comments. This alignment often leads to not just job satisfaction but also to excelling in one’s field.

Overcoming The Fear of Change

A significant barrier to career change is fear. Charlotte tackles this head-on, encouraging a mindset shift. "What if it does work? Imagine the possibilities then," she says. It's about embracing the potential for success rather than being paralyzed by the fear of failure.

Starting Small, Dreaming Big

You don't have to leap into the unknown all at once. Charlotte suggests starting small: "Take one step towards a job or project that resonates with your strengths." These small steps can lead to significant career transformations over time.

The Future Awaits

As our session with Charlotte Blair concluded, one thing was clear – understanding and utilizing your strengths is not just a strategy but a pathway to a fulfilling career. If her insights resonate with you, there's more where that came from.

Catch the Replay

Dive deeper into Charlotte's wealth of knowledge by watching the replay of our session. There, you'll find more gems on career growth, overcoming stagnation, and harnessing your true potential. It's not just a session; it's a stepping stone to the career you deserve.

Watch the replay now and take the first step towards a career that's not just a job, but a reflection of your best self.

Ever noticed how the higher you climb the corporate ladder, the fewer laughs you hear? Well, Professor Robert Povine from the University of Maryland has, and he's got some research that's pretty eye-opening. It turns out, the big bosses – yes, we're talking about leaders like you – tend to laugh less. Why? Maybe it's the pressure to seem smart, the relentless chase for results, the lack of playful chit-chat, or maybe it's just too much screen time and not enough face time.

But here's the thing: laughter matters, especially at work. And who better to weigh in on this than Annie Harvey, our go-to guru for joy at work? Annie's got some insights that'll make you rethink the whole stiff-upper-lip approach.

Why Laughter is a Game-Changer in the Workplace

Annie's take is simple but powerful: laughter and fun can totally transform your workplace culture. Think about it. When was the last time you had a good laugh with your team? Dr. Rose Colston's research says a lot of adults have forgotten how to just play. And it's not only about cracking jokes. Sometimes, people who are naturally funny can even cross lines, which might be why some leaders keep their humor under wraps.

But here's the deal: laughter is like a magic wand for the workplace. It breaks down walls, lifts spirits, and creates this awesome sense of togetherness. Plus, it's great for mental health, reduces stress, and guess what? It can even smooth out those rough edges in team disagreements.

5 Easy Ways to Bring More Laughs to Your Leadership

Ready to add some chuckles to your leadership style? Here's how Annie suggests you can start:

1. Lead with Laughter: Show your team it's okay to laugh, even at yourself. A leader who can take a joke sets the tone for a more relaxed and open work environment.

2. Meme Magic: Who doesn't love a good meme? Share a giggle-worthy meme with your team. It's a small thing, but it can really lighten up the day.

3. Kick-off Meetings with a Chuckle: Start your meetings with something light and funny. It's a great ice-breaker and mood-lifter.

4. Celebrate with Fun Fridays: End the week on a high note by celebrating the little victories. It's a great way to appreciate everyone's hard work and have some fun together.

5. Lunch, Laugh, Learn: How about a 'lunch 'n' laugh' session with Annie? CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE You can do it in person or online. Check out her TEDx talk here for a taste of what you're in for!

Wrap-Up

So, leaders, let's cut to the chase: it's time to bring more laughter into your leadership style. Not only will it make your workplace a happier place, but it'll also boost team spirit, creativity, and productivity. Let's turn those boardrooms into burst-into-laughter rooms!

Let's Talk Gender Equality: Beyond the Visible Barriers

Let’s have a real chat about gender equality. It's a topic we've all heard about, but there's so much more beneath the surface. Did you know that, according to Sandra D'Souza, author of "From Bias to Equity," a whopping 30% of men in Australia don’t even think gender inequality is a thing? It’s like we’re looking at an iceberg with most of it hidden underwater.

Now, when it comes to the workplace, it's not just about blatantly saying "no" to women. Sandra makes a great point about unintentional bias. It's the kind of bias that sneaks up on you, influencing decisions without you even realising it. Think about it – how often have we seen a boardroom or a leadership team and it's just men as far as the eye can see? It’s not always about deliberate exclusion; it’s these invisible barriers that are the real culprits.

Here’s a kicker – both men and women are guilty of this bias. We're all more likely to hire a male over a female, even without meaning to. Sandra throws in this fascinating stat: when there are more women in the final round of a hiring process, their chances of getting the job shoot up. Now, that’s food for thought!

So, what’s the game plan? Well, it starts with us. We need to look at our own biases, be it at work or in our daily lives. Companies, especially, need to do some soul-searching. Are they really giving everyone a fair shot? It's not just about checking boxes for diversity; it's about creating a space where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive.

But remember, this isn’t just a 'women's issue.' It’s about all of us. When we embrace gender equality, we’re not just helping women; we’re enriching our communities, businesses, and even our personal lives with diverse perspectives and ideas.

What to do next

• Join the community and watch the snackable conversation with Sandra below

• Invite your team to our International Women's Day conversation in which Sandra will be joined by Gill Hicks and women's financial guru Betsy Westcott. Click here to find out more

Let's keep this conversation going and work towards a world where gender equality isn't just a goal, but a reality. What do you say?

The Surprising Power of Micro-Moves in Your Workday

Did you know that a simple change in your daily routine could significantly boost your health and productivity? It's not about rigorous gym sessions or drastic lifestyle overhauls. Instead, it’s about tiny, consistent changes that can make a huge difference. This eye-opening concept was beautifully highlighted in our recent show with Lizzie Williamson, author of "The Active Workday Advantage."

Sitting is the New Smoking

In her engaging conversation, Lizzie revealed a startling statistic: "If you sit for longer than 90 minutes at a time consistently, you're twice as likely to die earlier than someone who sits for less than 90 minutes at a time," she shared. This fact alone is a wake-up call for many of us trapped in the cycle of prolonged sitting due to our work routines.

The Magic of Micro-Moves

Lizzie’s solution? Micro-moves. These are small, simple activities you can do right at your desk. They are designed not just to combat the ill effects of sitting but to energise and rejuvenate your body and mind. As Lizzie explains, “It's a little stretch in your chair, a little bit of movement, which I'm sure we'll get to soon. These little movements get our vehicle, our body, and our brain back on track.”

The Ripple Effect of Movement

The beauty of these micro-moves lies in their ripple effect. Lizzie’s personal journey resonates deeply here. She narrates how starting with just one plie in her kitchen led her on a path to recovery from postnatal depression. “That little moment at my kitchen bench felt really good... it's created this ripple effect,” she reflects.

An Active Workplace Culture

Moreover, these small steps towards an active lifestyle have the potential to transform workplace culture. Lizzie envisions a future where “workplaces recognise that these tools that we have available for movement... are going to help their people be more productive, be more energised and be happier.” It's about creating an environment where physical activity is woven into the fabric of our workday.

Take the First Step

Lizzie’s insights are not just informative but empowering. By incorporating micro-moves into your routine, you can take control of your health and well-being, even within the constraints of a busy work schedule.

Where to start?

So, are you ready to make a change in your workday routine for the better? Check the snackable moment below

Want to watch the full replay?

Watch the full replay of our enlightening conversation with Lizzie Williamson and start your journey towards a healthier, more active work life. Let this be the moment you choose to move! Click here 

Navigating the Grey Area of Drinking: A Deep Dive with Sarah Rusbatch

In a thought-provoking snackable moment of our show, Sarah Rusbatch, author of "Beyond Booze: How to Create a Life You Love, Alcohol-Free", introduced a concept that sparked a significant amount of interest and debate: Grey Area Drinking. This topic, often overlooked in discussions about alcohol consumption, offers a fresh and somewhat controversial perspective on how we view drinking habits.

Understanding Grey Area Drinking

Grey Area Drinking exists between the extremes of complete sobriety and severe alcohol dependency. It's a space where many might find themselves questioning their relationship with alcohol. Are you drinking more than you intended? Do you use alcohol as a stress reliever or a mood enhancer? These are some signs that you might be in this grey area.

The Controversy and Importance

The concept challenges the binary perception of alcoholism and non-alcoholism. It recognises that the spectrum of alcohol use is vast and varied. This notion can be controversial as it implies that even moderate drinking, often socially acceptable and normalised, could be problematic. This perspective forces us to reconsider cultural attitudes towards alcohol and its ubiquitous

presence in our social and personal lives.

The Impact of Grey Area Drinking

What makes grey area drinking particularly insidious is its subtlety. It often doesn't present immediate, dramatic consequences, allowing it to fly under the radar of concern. However, its long-term effects can be profound, affecting mental health, relationships, and quality of life. This type of drinking can be a slippery slope, leading to increased tolerance and dependency without the drinker even realising it.

The Societal Implications

Sarah Rusbatch's insights on grey area drinking also touch upon the societal implications. How does society view and handle moderate drinking? Are we too complacent about the role of alcohol in our social rituals and stress relief? These questions challenge the norm, stirring a debate on the need for a broader awareness of alcohol's impact.

Moving Beyond the Grey Area

The journey out of grey area drinking begins with awareness and acknowledgment. It’s about recognizing the subtle ways alcohol may be affecting your life and questioning whether it aligns with your values and goals. Sarah advocates for a mindful approach to drinking, encouraging individuals to reassess their relationship with alcohol and explore the benefits of reduced or absent alcohol consumption.

A Call to Reflect and Act

For those intrigued or even slightly unsettled by the concept of grey area drinking, our episode with Sarah Rusbatch is an unmissable watch. It's not just an exploration of a controversial topic; it's a call to introspection and potential action. If you find yourself in this grey area, or know someone who might, this episode offers valuable insights and starting points for a healthier relationship with alcohol.

Join us in this engaging and potentially life-altering conversation. Watch the replay here and start your journey towards understanding and possibly redefining your relationship with alcohol.

5 Tips to get more of what YOU want in 2024

Contribution by Sam Trattles, CEO and Negotiation Strategist

Here’s to a brand new year of opportunities! As we ease our way into 2024, it's the time to consider what we want to be celebrating in December this year. But sometimes what we want in January gets lost somewhere on the way to December – how about making this year a little different!

In this blog post, we'll explore five tips that will help you to get more of what you want in 2024.

1. Reflect on 2023 achievements

Take some time to consider the things you did and didn’t get last year. Don’t over think it, step through these few questions: what did you get, what did you go after, what did you talk about and not action, what did you miss out on, what are you disappointed that you didn’t get, what do you regret?

2. Get clear on what you want

Ok, with your reflections in mind, it’s time to get laser focused on what you want from the year ahead. Consider this - if everyone was going to say yes to anything you asked for this year – what would you be asking for?

Once you have a BIG list of ideas, define which of these is really going to make an impact on your happiness this year.

3. You will need to negotiate to get this.

Regardless of if you're aiming for a salary raise, closing a deal with a client, or navigating personal relationships, negotiating is an essential part of it. So negotiating is really something to get on board with when we’re talking about achieving your goals. Why? Because negotiating can help you unlock how you can make more money, save more money and create more harmony, in work and life. What’s not to love?  

Take time to consider the aspects of negotiating that you feel confident about, and which you find challenging – then determine what you’ll do about making some adjustments to this. PS I’m happy to help with this one 😉

4. Create your action plan

It’s now time to lay out your action plan - write down the negotiations you’ll have to have this year, in order to achieve your goals. Next, put them in order of easiest to the trickiest. You’ll start with the easiest one, so you build your confidence, which will help when you get to the trickiest of your negotiations. Now, set a timeline to take action on each of these, and go for it!

5. Celebrate the heck out of your progress

Every time you give a negotiation a go, take the time to reflect on the experience - what went well, what did you learn, and what will you do differently next time. AND regardless of the outcome - what are you going to celebrate? We don’t always get what we want, but if we don’t even try, there’ll be nothing to celebrate – so be proud of yourself for each time you ask for what you want (and deserve).

As you embark on your 2024 adventures, know that getting more of what you want is possible. Working you way through these 5 steps will help turn your aspirations into reality.

Here's to a year filled with growth, achievement, and getting more of what you want (through negotiating)!

If you would like to know more about how to embrace negotiating, get in touch with Sam Trattles and the team at Other Side of the Table. And to support your 2024 planning grab a copy of the FREE More in 2024 Negotiation Planner HERE

Unlock the Secrets of Business Success in 2024 with Cuppa's Exclusive Trend Report

Are you ready to dive into the future of business? As 2024 unfolds, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for every business leader. But, where do you start? That's where we at Cuppa come in!

Before Christmas, Cuppa embarked on a visionary quest. Our goal? To identify the key factors that held businesses back in 2023 and the top five trends that will shape the corporate world in 2024. To do this, we didn't just rely on data; we spoke to the people who know best.

30 Cuppa Experts Weigh In. We tapped into the wisdom of 30 of our incredible Cuppa experts, seasoned professionals who work closely with organisations. They shared their insights and observations, giving us a unique, ground-level view of the business landscape.

What's in it for you? This isn't just another report; it's a treasure trove of insights. We've distilled these expert opinions into a comprehensive document, and guess what? It's available for free! All you need to do is join our thriving and free Business Brew Community.

Dive Deep into Wellbeing, Leadership, Team Performance, and DE&I. Our report doesn't just skim the surface. It delves deep into critical areas such as wellbeing, leadership, team performance, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) efforts. These are the pillars that will support and drive businesses in 2024.

Who Are We at Cuppa? At Cuppa, our mission is to fuel meaningful conversations and bring you the latest and most relevant insights. We've partnered with a wealth of experts to bring you the key trends and behaviors observed in Australian businesses over the past year. More importantly, we explore how these trends will shape the next year and beyond.

Why Download the Report? It's simple. This report is your roadmap to not just survive but thrive in 2024. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned leader, or somewhere in between, our trend report is an invaluable tool for navigating the challenges and opportunities of the coming year.

So, are you ready to be a step ahead? Download Cuppa's 2024 Workplace Trend Report today. Join our Business Brew Community for free and unlock the insights that will drive your business forward.

[Download the Report Here] - Join the Business Brew Community & Get Your Free Copy!

The Ongoing Quest for Gender Equality

In our continuous journey towards a more equitable society, the conversation around gender equality remains front and center. This is a topic that transcends borders, industries, and cultures, touching the lives of individuals in every corner of the world. It's a narrative woven with stories of struggles, triumphs, and unyielding hope for a future where equality is not just an ideal, but a reality.

Gender equality is about breaking down the barriers that have historically divided us. It's about challenging the deep-rooted stereotypes and biases that have limited the roles and responsibilities of individuals based on their gender. The focus is increasingly shifting towards creating an environment where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities to succeed and contribute.

This shift is evident in various sectors of society. In education, there's a growing emphasis on nurturing a culture that supports and encourages both boys and girls to pursue their interests and passions, free from the constraints of traditional gender roles. In the corporate world, efforts are being made to close the gender pay gap and ensure equal representation in leadership roles.

However, achieving true gender equality extends beyond these systemic changes. It's about a fundamental shift in mindset and attitudes. It's about recognising and valuing the strengths and capabilities of individuals irrespective of their gender. It's about understanding that gender should not be a determinant of one's worth or potential.

In a powerful reflection on the subject, Ronni Kahn AO, founder of OzHarvest, shares her perspective: "We stand on the shoulders of all those other extraordinary women... may [our children] not have the same challenge." Kahn's words echo the sentiment of many who are engaged in this ongoing quest.

Kahn's experience serves as a reminder of the work still to be done. It's a call to action for each of us to contribute to this global movement. Gender equality is not just a women's issue; it's a human issue that requires the collective effort of all genders.

As we continue to push the boundaries and challenge the norms, it's important to listen to voices like Ronni Kahn's and others who have been instrumental in driving this change. Their insights and experiences provide valuable lessons and inspiration for those who are part of this ongoing struggle.

To delve deeper into Ronni Kahn's unique perspective on gender equality and to hear more about her inspiring journey, be sure to watch snackable moment below and the full interview HERE. It's a conversation that not only informs but also motivates, reminding us of the importance of our collective effort in shaping a more equitable world.