3 ways founders can improve critical thinking | Be transparent after layoffs to shift negative mindsets | 3 steps to take the fear out of decision-making
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3 ways founders can improve critical thinking Critical thinking is the one skill that entrepreneurs should be continuously working on, writes Jotform founder Aytekin Tank, which can be done by using solid reasoning and questioning your own assumptions. "One way I apply this is by taking up a practice of talking to people outside of tech or by having lunch with individuals who have different backgrounds than my own," Tank writes. Full Story: Entrepreneur (1/19)
Be transparent after layoffs to shift negative mindsets After a layoff, leaders need the freedom and information to have honest and open conversations with those who remain about why the move was made, what's the strategy to move forward and allow employees the space to air their concerns, writes Michael Felden. "When done correctly, the output will help your people connect the dots for themselves, and you'll see a significant mindset shift," Felden writes. Full Story: Root Inc. (1/20)
Fear of making a wrong decision can keep us stuck, but author Leo Babauta recommends ditching overthinking in favor of trusting and following your heart and seeing decision-making as a learning process instead of imagining bad outcomes. "This learning approach frees us up from having to get it right, and allows for it to be a more empowered process," Babauta writes. Full Story: Zen Habits (1/20)
The Landscape
Job market still favorable for people seeking new positions Despite the cuts many tech companies are making to their workforces, it is still a good time to look for a job, experts say. So far, the interest rate hikes put in place by the Federal Reserve have not affected the job market. Some 96% of workers will be looking for a job this year, according to Monster.com, mainly to increase their income. Full Story: CNBC (1/20)
Percentage of workers in unions hit new low last year Only 10.1% of workers were members of labor unions last year, marking the lowest percentage on record, although the total number of union members increased, according to the Labor Department. The data represents a continuation of declines that began in the mid-1950s. Full Story: The Associated Press (1/19),The Washington Post (1/19)
POLL QUESTION: Have you ever been a member of a work union?
The new year can take a toll on mental health Demands from the holidays, pressure to be productive in the new year, less daylight and winter weather combine to leave some people struggling with their mental health in January, says licensed clinical social worker Brianda Diaz de Leon. Building in time for movement, breaking down goals into smaller pieces and ensuring that the basics of self-care, such good nutrition, are met can help people cope, Diaz de Leon advises. Full Story: The Dallas Morning News (tiered subscription model) (1/20)
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The Kitzbühel Streif is one of the most famous downhills in skiing. Movies have been made about this demanding (read: terrifying) slope. Despite decades of lore, no female skier had ever slayed the Streif ... until Tuesday. That's when Lindsey Vonn did it. At night! Full Story: Outside Magazine (1/20)
Editor's Note
I am Janet Connor Kahler, editor of Your Career. I have been with SmartBrief for 13 years in a variety of jobs, including my current job as content production manager. I have experience in hiring, training and managing workers and have taught college courses that include resume writing and job interviewing. And I have never been in a union -- most of my adult life has been in "Right to Work" state of South Carolina.
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