Summer 2012: Karen speaks to Executive Women in Texas Government wearing a great wig! NO ONE KNEW!

Two years ago today my final chemotherapy treatment for a successful journey with breast cancer happened.

Today I’m contemplative, grateful, healthy.

Here’s what I’ve come to know, which may help you as you handle adversity in your life – whether that’s a health issue, job crisis, parenting dilemma, stock market volatility, divorce, marriage, moving, even fulfilling a big goal that now leaves you a bit empty.

This list resembles that test on stress where you get all these points for different types of stress, including points for going on a vacation (also stressful!).

And it’s true – all of these situations create stress that challenges your ability to communicate with gravitas.

Crisis creates clarity. You really don’t sweat the small stuff when the big stuff is going on. BUT, that doesn’t minimize the “small stuff”, and I’ve always hated that cliché! Joel Weldon, a legendary speaker, once said, “It’s not the elephant that gets you, it’s the gnats.” So whether you’re in uber crazy mode or regular crazy mode – here’s my list.

1. Find the humor somehow.
2. In your professional world – don’t talk about it. You’re there to solve their problems, they are NOT there to solve yours.
3. Keep to a schedule. Structure helps.
4. Try to stay present. Worrying about the future is futile.
5. Wear knockout clothes!

Karen Cortell Reisman, M.S., author of 3 books and President of Speak For Yourself®, works with organizations on how to communicate to make more money. It’s all in how you speak for yourself. Read more at www.SpeakForYourself.com/blog/