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	<title>Natalia Rosa &#8211; Big Ambitions</title>
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	<title>Natalia Rosa &#8211; Big Ambitions</title>
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		<title>Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello</title>
		<link>https://bigambitions.co.za/monday-musings-9-december-why-how-we-say-goodbye-matters-as-much-as-how-we-say-hello/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Natalia Rosa]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Dec 2024 07:11:12 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Monday Musings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bigambitions.co.za/?p=9302</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Four years ago, in a world turned upside down, Monday Musings was born. It started as a spontaneous scribble – a heartfelt response to someone feeling out of touch and isolated, wanting a connection amid the chaos of COVID. It quickly became more than a newsletter; it became a touchpoint, a shared pause in the [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Four years ago, in a world turned upside down, Monday Musings was born. It started as a spontaneous scribble – a heartfelt response to someone feeling out of touch and isolated, wanting a connection amid the chaos of COVID. It quickly became more than a newsletter; it became a touchpoint, a shared pause in the week to reflect, laugh, and make sense of an uncertain world.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Over the years, this column has been many things: catharsis for the writer, a moment of levity for readers, and a little pocket of shared humanity. We mused over elephants in the Chobe, the eccentricity of World Naked Gardening Day, and the whimsical art of hobby-horsing. Each week brought a dash of curiosity, humour, and a connection that transcended inboxes.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">But life changes. The world feels busier, in some ways heavier, and though we still carry echoes of that time, the energy has shifted. Monday Musings, once a lifeline, feels like a chapter that has run its course.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Just as all things must evolve to stay relevant, so too must Monday Musings. What began as a comforting voice during uncertain times now seeks to adapt to the needs of a world that is constantly moving forward. While its original purpose has been fulfilled, its spirit – the desire to connect, inspire, and provoke thought – remains very much alive. This is not the end of our musings; rather a transformation, one that aligns with where we are today and where we aspire to go.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In the spirit of this farewell, we reflect on the art of goodbyes, beautifully captured in this musing by <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/mckinsey-digital/our-insights/what-mckinsey-learned-while-creating-its-generative-ai-platform" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jared Miller</a> (Thank you Melissa for sharing this little gem when I needed it most). It is particularly poignant to me having just had to say goodbye to some of our team in our restructuring.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Goodbyes, whether personal or professional, are never easy, but they create space for growth and renewal. They honour what has been while paving the way for what’s next, reinforcing the trust and values that guide us.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This evolution of Monday Musings mirrors the journey Big Ambitions is on. As we embrace a more focused strategy, our musings will shift to reflect our redefined purpose. Future columns will provoke meaningful conversations and align with our goal of delivering impactful, outcome-driven solutions in the travel and tourism sector. They will challenge us to connect the tasks at hand with the bigger picture of driving positive impact for people, places, and the planet.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This transformation doesn’t mean leaving behind the heart and humour that defined Monday Musings; rather, it means weaving those qualities into a new narrative. Our Musings will explore not just what’s happening but why it matters, guiding readers through the complexities of a rapidly changing world while staying true to our purpose of driving positive impact for people, places, and the planet. It’s not just the end of a chapter – it’s the beginning of a new story.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">And so, as we bid adieu to Monday Musings, we do so with full hearts. This end is not a loss but a transition, a space created for new energy, ideas, and adventures to take root. Let this be a gentle reminder, as the year winds down, to embrace endings with the same excitement as beginnings. Because in every goodbye, there’s an invitation to begin anew.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To all who’ve read, laughed, and reflected with us over the years – thank you. Your engagement has been a gift. And as we step into this next chapter, remember: <em>How we say goodbye shapes how we think about saying hello again.</em></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Here’s to 2024 and all the new beginnings it holds. May it be filled with curiosity, connection, and the courage to embrace the unknown.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mindful Musings</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="800" height="450" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsQuote.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello 5" class="wp-image-9304" title="Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello 5" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsQuote.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsQuote-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsQuote-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What the world was musing over this past week</strong></h3>



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://news.sky.com/story/these-are-the-words-you-have-been-saying-incorrectly-all-year-13266719" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory1.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello 6" class="wp-image-9305 size-full" title="Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello 6" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory1.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory1-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Expresso yourself! The year we all mispronounced everything</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">From “Espresso” (it’s not “expresso,” people) to “Flygskam” (yes, that’s Swedish for flight shame), 2024’s linguistic slip-ups prove we can <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/these-are-the-words-you-have-been-saying-incorrectly-all-year-13266719" data-type="link" data-id="https://news.sky.com/story/these-are-the-words-you-have-been-saying-incorrectly-all-year-13266719" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mispronounce just about anything</a>. Thanks, Babbel, for saving us from ourselves.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/weird-christmas-gifts-2024_n_674a125ae4b02079326aa3bf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="599" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory2.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello 7" class="wp-image-9306 size-full" title="Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello 7" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory2.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory2-300x225.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory2-768x575.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>61 Gifts so odd, even Father Christmas is thinking ‘hard pass’</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">How about a Grinch costume for your dog or tequila in Santa pants? This <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/weird-christmas-gifts-2024_n_674a125ae4b02079326aa3bf" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/weird-christmas-gifts-2024_n_674a125ae4b02079326aa3bf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bizarre gift</a> guide proves no idea is too strange for the holiday season.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/02/style/hong-kong-panda-sculptures-art-hnk-intl/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory3.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello 8" class="wp-image-9307 size-full" title="Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello 8" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory3.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory3-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Hong Kong banks on ‘Panda Power’</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">With 2,500 <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/02/style/hong-kong-panda-sculptures-art-hnk-intl/index.html" data-type="link" data-id="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/02/style/hong-kong-panda-sculptures-art-hnk-intl/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">panda sculptures</a> and six real-life bears, Hong Kong’s panda craze is turning cute into cash as the city embraces its “panda economy” to attract tourists.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/miller-high-life-dive-bar-perfume-b2660004.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="528" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory4.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello 9" class="wp-image-9308 size-full" title="Monday Musings 9 December: Why how we say goodbye matters as much as how we say hello 9" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory4.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory4-300x198.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_12_09MondayMusingsStory4-768x507.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Smells like happy hour? Miller launches dive bar ‘barfume’</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Sporting notes of cedarwood, leather, and sea salt, <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/miller-high-life-dive-bar-perfume-b2660004.html" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/miller-high-life-dive-bar-perfume-b2660004.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Miller High Life’s sold-out “Bar-Fume”</a> captures the essence of your favourite dive bar—minus the sticky floors.</p>
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		<title>Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey…</title>
		<link>https://bigambitions.co.za/monday-musings-19-august-the-fools-journey-is-the-only-journey/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Natalia Rosa]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Aug 2024 08:27:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Monday Musings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bigambitions.co.za/?p=8936</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Ah, the &#8220;fool&#8217;s errand&#8221; – that patronising pat on the head from the universe, usually delivered by some well-meaning buzzkill who thinks safety comes in bubble wrap. But let&#8217;s be real: if we only did what made sense, we&#8217;d all still be living in caves, arguing over who gets the flattest rock to sit on. [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Ah, the &#8220;fool&#8217;s errand&#8221; – that patronising pat on the head from the universe, usually delivered by some well-meaning buzzkill who thinks safety comes in bubble wrap. But let&#8217;s be real: if we only did what made sense, we&#8217;d all still be living in caves, arguing over who gets the flattest rock to sit on.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Cast your mind back to your most epic fool&#8217;s errand. Mine? The time I whimsically decided to hop over to the Netherlands for a weekend, only to find myself staying for a year. Or the little bureaucratic disagreement which led to a rather inconvenient deportation in the middle of the Malaysian jungle. And let’s not forget the wild night I celebrated Quito&#8217;s 200th birthday by embarking on a winding bus ride through the Andes, fuelled by enough <em>Canelazo</em> to pickle a llama.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">These &#8220;foolish&#8221; adventures, mine usually travel related, are the technicolour threads in what may otherwise be my beige tapestry of life. Each of these misadventures, fuelled by a cocktail of curiosity and recklessness, were my own personal fool&#8217;s errands. And you know what? They were worth every moment. Disclaimer: don’t try this at home…</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">With that in mind, what if we saw these follies not as a precipice of doom, but as a launchpad for the extraordinary? Picture the fool not as a hapless wanderer, but as a daring pioneer, the kind of person who looks at the horizon and sees not just a sunset, but a canvas waiting to be painted with the colours of adventure.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="532" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusingsSecondimage.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 14" class="wp-image-8937" title="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 14" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusingsSecondimage.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusingsSecondimage-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusingsSecondimage-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a world obsessed with certainty, perhaps it is the fool who truly understands the art of living. Perhaps the fool isn’t really a fool at all. She’s the brave soul who steps off the edge of the cliff, not because she’s reckless, but because she’s willing to see where the journey might lead.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">There’s something deeply powerful in that. It’s the kind of foolishness we need more of in our lives—the willingness to start something new, to try something unfamiliar, to risk looking silly or failing miserably. Because the greatest adventures almost always start with a single step into the unknown.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Think about it. When was the last time you did something for the first time? Not something grand or extreme—<a href="https://www.news18.com/viral/watch-man-takes-selfie-on-empire-state-buildings-antenna-at-1435-feet-8984903.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">no need to take a selfie on the top of the Empire State Building’s antenna.</a></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">I’m talking about the small leaps, the micro-adventures that add a dash of unpredictability to our routines. They&#8217;re the stories you&#8217;ll bore your friends with one day, assuming you haven&#8217;t traded them for a goat in some bizarre Balkan bartering mishap.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Speaking of bizarre, and perhaps your next micro-adventure, let me introduce you to the wild world of hobby-horsing. <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@kht_duck/video/7375097132287544608?q=hobbyhorse&amp;t=1723982126660" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Picture this: grown adults prancing around on stick horses, jumping over poles with the seriousness of Olympic athletes</a>.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">My first reaction when I saw this on TikTok was, &#8220;Well, that&#8217;s just plain ridiculous.&#8221; But then it hit me—if <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gl34v4r98o" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&#8220;Raygun&#8221;</a> can dominate like my dog rolling around on their back in a fit of joy, why couldn’t &#8220;Sir Prance-a-Lot&#8221; be out there clearing hurdles at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics?</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Maybe the real foolishness isn’t in trying something ridiculous; it’s in never trying it at all. Hold my beer, “Raygun”…</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">So here&#8217;s your mission, should you choose to accept it (and if you don&#8217;t, I&#8217;ll assume you&#8217;re too busy with that bubble wrap): This week, do something gloriously, unapologetically foolish.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Will you look silly? Absolutely. Will it matter? Who cares! Because here&#8217;s the dirty little secret: The fools are the ones truly living. The rest of us are just spectators.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a stick horse to name. I’m leaning towards “Neigh-sayer.” Hope it fits in my hand-luggage.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mindful Musings</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="563" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Section-2-2.png" alt="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 15" class="wp-image-8940" title="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 15" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Section-2-2.png 1000w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Section-2-2-300x169.png 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Section-2-2-768x432.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What the world was musing over this past week</strong></h3>



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.newscientist.com/article/2411528-6-exquisite-images-from-close-up-photographer-of-the-year/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="529" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story1.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 16" class="wp-image-8941 size-full" title="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 16" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story1.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story1-300x198.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story1-768x508.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Nature’s tiny superstars steal the show</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">From a heart-shaped moray eel to a slime mould with an ice crown, the <a href="https://www.newscientist.com/article/2411528-6-exquisite-images-from-close-up-photographer-of-the-year/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Close-up Photographer of the Year competition reveals nature’s tiniest celebs,</a> captured by photographers who know how to get up close and personal with their subjects.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://news.sky.com/story/dolce-and-gabbana-launches-dog-perfume-named-after-founders-pet-13191433" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story2.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 17" class="wp-image-8942 size-full" title="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 17" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story2.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story2-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Dolce &amp; Gabbana’s doggy perfume</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Forget Chanel No. 5; Dolce &amp; Gabbana’s got Fido covered with “Fefe,” a €99 <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/dolce-and-gabbana-launches-dog-perfume-named-after-founders-pet-13191433" target="_blank" rel="noopener">dog perfume named after Domenico Dolce’s pet</a> complete with notes of ylang-ylang and a 24-carat gold-plated paw print.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/demure-tiktoks-latest-trend-social-media-users-hooked-living-modesty" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="626" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story3.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 18" class="wp-image-8943 size-full" title="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 18" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story3.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story3-300x235.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story3-768x601.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Mindful modesty, one straw at a time </strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/demure-tiktoks-latest-trend-social-media-users-hooked-living-modesty" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Turns out, “demure” is TikTok’s new cool.</a> With 122,000+ videos tagged #demure, TikTokers are embracing modesty and mindfulness. Think subtle makeup, understated behaviour, and walking through airports like you’re too good for drama.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3274495/japan-haunted-houses-are-refreshing-respite-scorching-summer-heat" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story4.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 19" class="wp-image-8944 size-full" title="Monday Musings 19 August: The ‘fool’s’ journey is the only journey… 19" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story4.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story4-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024_08_19MondayMusings_Story4-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Chilling your bones this summer in haunted houses</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In Japan, <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3274495/japan-haunted-houses-are-refreshing-respite-scorching-summer-heat" target="_blank" rel="noopener">haunted houses</a> are a summer survival tactic! With temps soaring, these air-conditioned scare-fests offer a spine-tingling way to beat the heat.</p>
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		<title>Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline)</title>
		<link>https://bigambitions.co.za/tuesday-takeaway-25-june-tuesday-two-step-cause-i-missed-my-monday-musings-deadline/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Natalia Rosa]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 24 Jun 2024 19:34:25 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Monday Musings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bigambitions.co.za/?p=8745</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Confession: I was supposed to file this column yesterday, but a 4 a.m. epiphany after an all-nighter led to a bit of soul-searching (and a serious caffeine deficit).&#160; Turns out, being a chronic people-pleaser tends to wreak havoc on deadlines. The upside? It makes for a pretty fitting topic when you’ve missed a deadline because [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Confession: I was supposed to file this column yesterday, but a 4 a.m. epiphany after an all-nighter led to a bit of soul-searching (and a serious caffeine deficit).&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Turns out, being a chronic people-pleaser tends to wreak havoc on deadlines. The upside? It makes for a pretty fitting topic when you’ve missed a deadline because you’re too busy doing other people’s stuff, so let&#8217;s call it a happy accident.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">I’ve been the queen of saying “yes” for many years; twisting myself into pretzels to meet others&#8217; expectations. The result? A life that looked great on paper but felt like wearing someone else&#8217;s ill-fitting shoes.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Here&#8217;s the kicker: saying “yes” to everything and everyone is a lot easier when you haven&#8217;t a clue what you actually want.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Without a clear vision, every request seems reasonable. &#8220;Absolutely! I&#8217;d love to organise your cat&#8217;s birthday party while simultaneously mediating a peace treaty between your goldfish&#8221; We become human Jenga towers, piling on responsibilities until the inevitable collapse or, as I did yesterday, letting you down for the first time since we started Monday Musings in the first year of COVID.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Who am I kidding? Perhaps you haven’t even read up to this point&#8230;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Now, if you&nbsp;<strong><em>are</em></strong>&nbsp;reading this while your calendar looks like a game of Tetris gone wrong, breathe. This isn&#8217;t about shame &#8211; that&#8217;s just another dance partner we need to ditch. It&#8217;s about recognising that people-pleasing is a habit, not a personality trait.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">It&#8217;s about understanding that sometimes putting your own needs first isn&#8217;t selfish, it&#8217;s self-preservation. It&#8217;s about making choices that align with your values, even if it means stepping off the dance floor from time to time.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To anyone feeling like their life&#8217;s car is veering off-road because they&#8217;ve been following everyone else&#8217;s GPS: it&#8217;s time to recalibrate. Give yourself the grace to pause, reassess, and maybe even make a U-turn. You might even make the next Monday Musings deadline.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Remember, living authentically isn&#8217;t about perfection. It&#8217;s about gradually aligning your actions with your values, one step at a time. Remembering that today’s decision needs to be kind to tomorrow’s Natalia.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">I can’t start this week by asking the world not to be disappointed if I lace up my&nbsp;<em>tekkies</em>&nbsp;to do the&nbsp;&nbsp;“You Do You” dance and to hell with it, but I have a feeling my authentic self has some killer moves. May I learn how to use them…</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mindful Musings</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="563" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Quote-24-June-24.png" alt="Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline) 20" class="wp-image-8746" title="Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline) 20" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Quote-24-June-24.png 1000w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Quote-24-June-24-300x169.png 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Quote-24-June-24-768x432.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What the world was musing over this past week</strong></h3>



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/worldfemalerangerweek/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size-4.png" alt="Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline) 21" class="wp-image-8761" title="Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline) 21" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size-4.png 360w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size-4-300x200.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /></a></figure>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Move over, boys club. The lionesses are on patrol</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Female rangers are storming the savanna, armed with radios and sass. Join us in celebrating <a href="https://www.facebook.com/worldfemalerangerweek/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">these wonder women</a> this week during Female Ranger Week.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.standard.co.uk/news/world/paris-olympics-2024-swim-poo-river-seine-protest-b1166240.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size.png" alt="Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline) 22" class="wp-image-8751" title="Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline) 22" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size.png 360w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size-300x200.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /></a></figure>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Parisian poop protest: Seine-sational splash planned for Olympics</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://www.standard.co.uk/news/world/paris-olympics-2024-swim-poo-river-seine-protest-b1166240.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Angry locals</a> threaten to turn the Seine into a giant toilet bowl. Mayor&#8217;s swim delayed, but protestors still ready to make a stink. Olympic Committee now considering nose clips.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://news.sky.com/story/winner-of-worlds-ugliest-dog-contest-announced-13157042" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size-1.png" alt="Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline) 23" class="wp-image-8752" title="Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline) 23" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size-1.png 360w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size-1-300x200.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /></a></figure>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Doggone ugly Pekingese wins world title</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Canine distemper survivor shows true beauty is on the inside&#8230; <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/winner-of-worlds-ugliest-dog-contest-announced-13157042" target="_blank" rel="noopener">where no one can see it</a>. Supermodels, watch out!</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://metro.co.uk/2024/06/11/ed-sheeran-superfan-gets-married-ed-sheeran-doppelganger-celeb-lookalike-wedding-year-21012307/?ico=metro-posts_weird_whats-trending-now" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size-2.png" alt="Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline) 24" class="wp-image-8753" title="Tuesday Takeaway 25 June: Tuesday two-step (cause I missed my Monday Musings deadline) 24" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size-2.png 360w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM-story-size-2-300x200.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /></a></figure>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Ginger snaps: Sheeran Double finds ‘Perfect’ match</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Ed clone ties knot <a href="https://metro.co.uk/2024/06/11/ed-sheeran-superfan-gets-married-ed-sheeran-doppelganger-celeb-lookalike-wedding-year-21012307/?ico=metro-posts_weird_whats-trending-now" target="_blank" rel="noopener">with superfan</a>, surrunded by faux famous faces.</p>
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		<title>Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#8217;s story</title>
		<link>https://bigambitions.co.za/monday-musings-29-april-a-global-heart-awakening-rooted-in-south-africas-story/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Natalia Rosa]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:46:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Monday Musings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bigambitions.co.za/?p=8080</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[There is a heart awakening stirring across the globe – a growing recognition of love&#8217;s transformative power to heal our world. It&#8217;s a resounding call to action to unite in creating a future grounded in heart-centred consciousness. And there is no place more fitting for this movement to take flight than South Africa, a nation [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">There is a heart awakening stirring across the globe – a growing recognition of love&#8217;s transformative power to heal our world. It&#8217;s a resounding call to action to unite in creating a future grounded in heart-centred consciousness. And there is no place more fitting for this movement to take flight than South Africa, a nation that embodies the triumph of the heart.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Celebrating Freedom Day this past weekend, we commemorated an historic milestone that marked the beginning of a new chapter – one of reflecting deeply, speaking truth, offering forgiveness, and opening hearts. The soul of this nation has been forged in the crucible of this process. Has it been easy? Hell no.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As Brené Brown, a luminary in the field of wholehearted living, reminds us, &#8220;Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable.&#8221;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Warning, I’m about to be vulnerable:</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">During the COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself hardening my heart as a coping mechanism. I felt driven to be the one who kept others uplifted, the person in control, driving things forward when others couldn’t. It was a mask I wore to protect myself and those around me.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">It’s taken years to realise that this mask was no longer needed. I’ve been wading through a very painful process of pulling it down, exposing my vulnerabilities, and allowing myself to feel the pain and hurt that comes with it. It&#8217;s been a gradual process of weaning myself off the mask, learning to be vulnerable, and adjusting to how people react.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Amid my own struggle to embrace vulnerability, I encountered James Fernie from Uthando (Love) South Africa, who rekindles hope with his infectious enthusiasm to &#8220;share the love&#8221;. The invitation is compelling, pulling even the most disheartened among us toward a vision of communal and global unity.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">James’ new vision for the establishment of a Heart of Cape Town and Peace Centre is not merely an initiative; it&#8217;s a movement and social enterprise that aims to fuse community development with cultural tourism. Through this centre, visitors would be able to explore South Africa&#8217;s history, engage with community-driven projects, and take home a hand-crafted heart made by local artisans – a tangible reminder of the message of love and unity.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="534" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsWireHeartPic.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 29" class="wp-image-8081" title="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 29" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsWireHeartPic.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsWireHeartPic-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsWireHeartPic-768x513.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">And, as these hearts find their way across the globe, they carry with them stories of a South Africa that chose reconciliation over conflict and unity over division. They serve as powerful symbols of the heart awakening that is stirring within us all.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">James&#8217; enthusiasm is infectious, and despite my own struggles, I find myself drawn to his call to embrace wholehearted living. As Brené Brown says, &#8220;Embracing this calling requires us to live wholeheartedly &#8211; showing up with authenticity, letting ourselves be truly seen. It means choosing vulnerability over fear, love over hatred, and connection over division. This is the path of the heart warrior.&#8221;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, this is me wearing my heart on my sleeve, embracing the vulnerability that comes with being me and saying this is a journey of the heart we should probably do together. And while we’re engaging with others from a place of profound courage and heartfelt sincerity, let’s help James with his heart-centred movement and be part of something larger than ourselves.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mindful Musings</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="450" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsQuote.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 30" class="wp-image-8082" title="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 30" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsQuote.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsQuote-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsQuote-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What the world was musing over this past week</strong></h3>



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/did-you-know-pluto-has-a-heart-scientists-solve-mystery-as-to-why/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="535" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory1.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 31" class="wp-image-8083 size-full" title="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 31" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory1.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory1-300x201.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory1-768x514.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Pluto&#8217;s ‘heart’: Not just cold rock, but a stellar love bite</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/did-you-know-pluto-has-a-heart-scientists-solve-mystery-as-to-why/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/did-you-know-pluto-has-a-heart-scientists-solve-mystery-as-to-why/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pluto&#8217;s iconic heart-shaped feature</a> isn&#8217;t just a cold, distant spot. It&#8217;s a cosmic love bite, created by a planetary smack that turned this dwarf planet into a stellar, rocky, heart-emblazoned emoji.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.vox.com/climate/24137250/coral-reefs-bleaching-climate-change" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="450" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory2.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 32" class="wp-image-8084 size-full" title="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 32" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory2.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory2-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Warming seas spell doom for reefs</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As global temperatures creep closer to a critical 1.5°C rise, <a href="https://www.vox.com/climate/24137250/coral-reefs-bleaching-climate-change" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.vox.com/climate/24137250/coral-reefs-bleaching-climate-change" target="_blank" rel="noopener">coral reefs</a> face near-total extinction, threatened by warming oceans and increased bleaching—signaling a dire ecosystem collapse.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2024/04/26/Ghana-man-hugs-trees-world-record/9441714153807/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="535" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory3.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 33" class="wp-image-8085 size-full" title="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 33" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory3.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory3-300x201.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory3-768x514.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Ghana man sets tree-hugging world record</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Abubakar Tahiru, a Ghanaian forestry student, <a href="https://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2024/04/26/Ghana-man-hugs-trees-world-record/9441714153807/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2024/04/26/Ghana-man-hugs-trees-world-record/9441714153807/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hugged 1,123 trees</a> in one hour at Tuskegee National Forest, setting a new world record while fasting for Ramadan.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://news.sky.com/story/milan-poised-to-ban-ice-cream-pizza-and-more-after-midnight-after-new-proposed-law-13121064" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="587" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory4.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 34" class="wp-image-8086 size-full" title="Monday Musings 29 April: A global heart awakening, rooted in South Africa&#039;s story 34" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory4.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory4-300x220.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024_04_29MondayMusingsStory4-768x564.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Milan&#8217;s midnight ban: No more ice cream or pizza past 12</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Milan may soon silence its vibrant late-night food scene, including <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/milan-poised-to-ban-ice-cream-pizza-and-more-after-midnight-after-new-proposed-law-13121064" data-type="link" data-id="https://news.sky.com/story/milan-poised-to-ban-ice-cream-pizza-and-more-after-midnight-after-new-proposed-law-13121064" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ice cream and pizza</a>, in a move to preserve resident tranquillity, potentially altering the city&#8217;s cultural nightlife.</p>
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		<title>Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic</title>
		<link>https://bigambitions.co.za/monday-musings-26-february-surviving-the-mice-invasion-with-wit-and-a-bit-of-introvert-magic/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Natalia Rosa]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Feb 2024 07:18:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Monday Musings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bigambitions.co.za/?p=7885</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Ah, MICE season—when the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions world descends upon us like a well-dressed flutter of butterflies, armed with business cards and ready for a week of schmoozing. With Meetings Africa taking the spotlight this week, hot on the heels of last week&#8217;s AGEIS 2024 and the Travel and Technology Conference, it&#8217;s been [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Ah, MICE season—when the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions world descends upon us like a well-dressed flutter of butterflies, armed with business cards and ready for a week of schmoozing. With Meetings Africa taking the spotlight this week, hot on the heels of last week&#8217;s AGEIS 2024 and the Travel and Technology Conference, it&#8217;s been a whirlwind of professional speed dating.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Glenton de Kock, CEO of SAACI, and someone who knows a lot about events, says the secret sauce to a successful meeting is finding your kindred spirit amidst the sea of suits—a business soulmate, if you will. Now, as someone who&#8217;d rather present to a stadium than make small talk with a stranger, this sounds akin to being told to find Nemo in the Atlantic.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As an introvert, my idea of a good time involves a good book, good wine, and a quiet room – far away from the madding crowd. But here’s the kicker: we introverts are like undercover superheroes at these things. Our superpower? We&#8217;re phenomenal listeners. While everyone else is busy broadcasting their own signal, we&#8217;re quietly tuning into the frequencies that matter.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, why am I rambling about the beauty of MICE and the introverted soul navigating its choppy waters? Because, dear reader, beneath the surface-level exchanges and the frenzied exchange of LinkedIn QR codes lies the real treasure of these events: genuine connection.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Let&#8217;s face it; the tourism and events world isn&#8217;t just about seeing new places or collecting fancy name badges. It&#8217;s about the people you meet along the way—the ones who share your passion for 19th-century stamps or that secret spot in Lisbon that serves the best <em>pasteis de nata</em>. It&#8217;s about finding your tribe in the most unexpected places.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This trade show season (buckle up, it’s begun), as we dodge the obligatory air kisses and the glazed-over looks of people scanning the room for someone more influential, dive deeper. Skip the small talk about the weather and ask someone about something that matters; something that has changed their life. You might just find a kindred spirit, or at the very least, you&#8217;ll make someone&#8217;s day by showing genuine interest.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">And if all else fails, there&#8217;s always the comfort of knowing that your bed, your wine, and your quiet corner of the world will be waiting for you after the storm passes.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mindful Musings </strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="532" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Mindful-Musings-Resized.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic 39" class="wp-image-7887" title="Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic 39" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Mindful-Musings-Resized.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Mindful-Musings-Resized-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Mindful-Musings-Resized-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What the world was musing over this past week</strong></h3>



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://apnews.com/article/pythons-pants-new-york-smuggling-2c7dde9ea8d1a764511399ad3402b644" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="532" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-1-Resized-1.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic 40" class="wp-image-7889 size-full" title="Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic 40" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-1-Resized-1.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-1-Resized-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-1-Resized-1-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A sly smuggle gone serpentine</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A NYC man&#8217;s bold attempt to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/pythons-pants-new-york-smuggling-2c7dde9ea8d1a764511399ad3402b644" target="_blank" rel="noopener">smuggle Burmese pythons</a> in his pants across the U.S.-Canadian border ends with probation and a $5,000 fine. A serpentine scheme that proves crime doesn&#8217;t slither away unnoticed.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/1870456/optical-illusion-kindhearted-or-goal-orientated" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="532" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-2-Resized.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic 41" class="wp-image-7890 size-full" title="Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic 41" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-2-Resized.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-2-Resized-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-2-Resized-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Tree or tiger &#8211; what this optical illusion says about you</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A captivating optical illusion doubles as a personality test, claiming to reveal your social skills and inner nature. <a href="https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/1870456/optical-illusion-kindhearted-or-goal-orientated" target="_blank" rel="noopener">See a majestic tree or a fierce tiger first?</a> Discover if you&#8217;re a solitary goal-seeker or a warm-hearted communicator.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="//nypost.com/2024/02/21/lifestyle/labradoodle-owner-teaches-dog-15-harry-potter-spells-as-commands/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-3-Resized.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic 42" class="wp-image-7891 size-full" title="Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic 42" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-3-Resized.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-3-Resized-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-3-Resized-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Meet the Hogwarts hound</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Toronto&#8217;s Audriana Li <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/02/21/lifestyle/labradoodle-owner-teaches-dog-15-harry-potter-spells-as-commands/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">transforms dog training into a magical affair</a>, teaching her Labradoodle, Dobby, to obey commands cast as &#8216;Harry Potter&#8217; spells. From &#8216;Accio&#8217; to &#8216;Azkaban&#8217;, this canine wizard is enchanting dog lovers everywhere.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/bc-us-round-stingray-surprise-pregnancy_n_65cc09b8e4b067c6b73ef3d6" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="532" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-4-resized.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic 43" class="wp-image-7892 size-full" title="Monday Musings 26 February: Surviving the MICE invasion with wit and a bit of introvert magic 43" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-4-resized.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-4-resized-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-26.02.2024-Story-4-resized-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Surprise pregnancy for solo stingray</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Charlotte, a stingray living far from her ocean home in a North Carolina aquarium, stuns scientists by <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/bc-us-round-stingray-surprise-pregnancy_n_65cc09b8e4b067c6b73ef3d6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">getting pregnant without a male</a>, showcasing nature&#8217;s marvel through parthenogenesis.</p>
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		<title>Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you?</title>
		<link>https://bigambitions.co.za/monday-musings-20-november-where-does-your-melodic-time-machine-transport-you/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Natalia Rosa]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Nov 2023 09:15:36 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Monday Musings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bigambitions.co.za/?p=7689</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Music has a funny way of worming its melodic tendrils deep into the crevices of our minds, stirring up memories and emotions we’d long since forgotten. A bit like your oldest friend who knows exactly which strings to pull to tug at your heartstrings, whisking you away to corners of your memories, some dustier than [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Music has a funny way of worming its melodic tendrils deep into the crevices of our minds, stirring up memories and emotions we’d long since forgotten.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A bit like your oldest friend who knows exactly which strings to pull to tug at your heartstrings, whisking you away to corners of your memories, some dustier than others.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For me, Mr Hyde’s Italian serenade &#8216;Si &#8216;a cosa chhiú bella&#8217; takes me right back to Positano, sipping a Spritz in the glow of a sunset that paints the sky in hues of fiery orange and tranquil purple. It&#8217;s not just the melody; it’s the feel of the breeze and watching the ferries bob from above.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Then there’s &#8216;Crossfire&#8217; by Brandon Flowers. A peculiar choice, but one that takes me back to Bangkok with my best mate, zipping through the city’s market-ridden streets, dodging tuk-tuks and soaking in the neon-lit chaos. Each beat of the song is a reminder of that unadulterated freedom, the thrill of adventure with a hint of youthful recklessness.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">And who could sidestep the iconic beats of Shakira’s &#8216;Waka Waka&#8217;? The anthem of the 2010 Soccer World Cup in South Africa is more than just a catchy tune. It&#8217;s a reminder of the country coming together, a celebration of unity and diversity, and, of course, some rather questionable dance moves attempted in bars across the globe.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The brain has a remarkable ability to encode music with pin-sharp memories and powerful emotions. Music triggers the release of dopamine, our brain’s feel-good neurotransmitter, much like the tastiest meal or a chuckle at a friend’s joke.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">More intriguingly, music activates parts of the brain linked to memory and emotion. It’s not just a tune you&#8217;re hearing; it’s a time capsule. A few bars of a meaningful song can instantly shoot us back through space and time.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The soundtrack to our lives, music allows us to relive our most cherished moments time and again. Because, in the end, we’re all just a melody away from another time and place.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Take a minute, open your Spotify and take a trip somewhere meaningful this Monday. </p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mindful Musings</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MindfulMusings.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you? 48" class="wp-image-7695" title="Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you? 48" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MindfulMusings.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MindfulMusings-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MindfulMusings-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What the world was musing over the past week</strong></h3>



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://youtu.be/8btv-eCw900" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="449" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/MicrosoftTeams-image-1.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you? 49" class="wp-image-7697 size-full" title="Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you? 49" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/MicrosoftTeams-image-1.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/MicrosoftTeams-image-1-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/MicrosoftTeams-image-1-768x431.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Mark Sham ignites travel passion &#8216;Like a Tourist&#8217;</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Mark&#8217;s &#8216;Like a Tourist&#8217; campaign invites South Africans to rediscover their country, promoting local tourism through a captivating <a href="https://youtu.be/8btv-eCw900" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&#8216;Why Cape Town&#8217;</a> video.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://nypost.com/2023/11/14/lifestyle/huge-cobra-invades-golf-course-in-terrifying-video-crazy/ " target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory2.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you? 50" class="wp-image-7698 size-full" title="Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you? 50" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory2.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory2-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Fairway fright: Cobra crashes Cape Town golf course</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a viral twist, a venomous cobra turned a <a href="https://nypost.com/2023/11/14/lifestyle/huge-cobra-invades-golf-course-in-terrifying-video-crazy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">South African golf game</a> into a survival sport, challenging golfers with more than just pars.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://news.sky.com/story/plane-forced-to-return-to-airport-after-horse-gets-loose-on-board-13008688" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory3.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you? 51" class="wp-image-7699 size-full" title="Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you? 51" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory3.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory3-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Equine escape forces plane u-turn</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/plane-forced-to-return-to-airport-after-horse-gets-loose-on-board-13008688" target="_blank" rel="noopener">loose horse</a> on a Boeing 747 turns a routine flight into a wild ride, causing an unexpected return to New York for safety.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://youtu.be/xKz9wasy_Ns " target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="449" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory4.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you? 52" class="wp-image-7700 size-full" title="Monday Musings 20 November: Where does your melodic time machine transport you? 52" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory4.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory4-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023_11_20MondayMusingsStory4-768x431.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Solar Man&#8217; Brightens Up South African Christmas</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a heart-warming ad, <a href="https://www.goodthingsguy.com/business/watch-solar-man-sparks-light-and-laughter-in-sa-christmas-ad/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&#8216;Solar Man&#8217; eclipses Santa</a>, delivering light and laughter to South Africans amidst their ongoing energy crisis this festive season.</p>
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		<title>Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business!</title>
		<link>https://bigambitions.co.za/monday-musings-18-september-be-your-own-wrecking-ball-its-good-for-business/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Natalia Rosa]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:03:58 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Monday Musings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bigambitions.co.za/?p=7523</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Travel. A realm where the unexpected is the norm, and where &#8220;business as usual&#8221; is as mythical as a week without load shedding. We&#8217;re no strangers to chaos, are we? Ash clouds, political unrest, the occasional misplaced luggage. Yet today, I choose to talk about disruption. Not the sort that involves a stag-do commandeering the [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Travel. A realm where the unexpected is the norm, and where &#8220;business as usual&#8221; is as mythical as a week without load shedding.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We&#8217;re no strangers to chaos, are we? Ash clouds, political unrest, the occasional misplaced luggage.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Yet today, I choose to talk about disruption. Not the sort that involves a stag-do commandeering the in-flight PA system. The kind of disruption you deliberately instigate. The delicious, invigorating chaos that you, yes YOU, can unleash. Not the kind you endure.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Inspired by Futurethink, this Monday I pose the disruptive questions: “What do customers hate <em>most</em> about our industry?”, &#8220;Which emerging trend could make our business model as outdated as a paper boarding pass?&#8221; Or, &#8220;What if layovers became the highlight, not the low point, of the journey?&#8221; These aren&#8217;t just hypotheticals; they&#8217;re the seeds of revolution.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Dear disruptors, in a world where the only constant is change, being the catalyst is not just revolutionary – it is essential. By blowing up what’s not working, we make space for the new.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The next time you&#8217;re on that Zoom call, staring at the same PowerPoint slides that could put an insomniac to sleep, be the one to throw in the disruptive question like tossing a chunk of meat into a shark-infested sea. Watch the waves it creates and ride them to uncharted territories. Because let&#8217;s face it, if you&#8217;re not willing to poke holes in your own life raft, someone else will.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, here&#8217;s to the disruptors, the question-askers, the boat-rockers. May your audacity lead us to new horizons and your courage redefine our industry. Wield your disruptive question sledgehammer with care &#8211; and watch how it sparks something beautiful.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mindful Musings</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="532" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Quote.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 58" class="wp-image-7524" title="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 58" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Quote.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Quote-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Quote-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What the world was musing over this week</strong></h3>



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://theweek.com/news/962347/couple-sues-after-farting-dog-ruins-flight" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="801" height="534" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story1.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 59" class="wp-image-7525 size-full" title="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 59" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story1.jpg 801w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story1-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 801px) 100vw, 801px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>High-flying fiasco: Couple sues airline over flatulent furball</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A couple is<a href="https://theweek.com/news/962347/couple-sues-after-farting-dog-ruins-flight" data-type="link" data-id="https://theweek.com/news/962347/couple-sues-after-farting-dog-ruins-flight" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> suing Singapore Airlines over a farting dog</a> that turned their 13-hour flight into an olfactory ordeal.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/sep/13/rugby-world-cup-officials-in-u-turn-as-disturbing-anthems-to-be-re-recorded" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story2.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 60" class="wp-image-7526 size-full" title="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 60" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story2.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story2-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Rugby World Cup organisers rethink &#8216;disturbing&#8217; national tunes</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A chorus of boos has prompted <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/sep/13/rugby-world-cup-officials-in-u-turn-as-disturbing-anthems-to-be-re-recorded" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/sep/13/rugby-world-cup-officials-in-u-turn-as-disturbing-anthems-to-be-re-recorded" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rugby World Cup organisers</a> to backtrack on their unique anthem renditions after the schoolchildren choirs failed to strike the right chord with fans.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.npr.org/2023/09/07/1198252469/coast-guard-hamster-wheel-reza-baluchi-atlantic-ocean" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="240" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story3.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 61" class="wp-image-7527 size-full" title="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 61" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story3.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story3-300x90.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story3-768x230.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Hamster wheel havoc as Florida man embarks on oceanic odyssey</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Reza Baluchi&#8217;s dream of ocean travel in a self-propelled, buoy-based <a href="https://www.npr.org/2023/09/07/1198252469/coast-guard-hamster-wheel-reza-baluchi-atlantic-ocean" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.npr.org/2023/09/07/1198252469/coast-guard-hamster-wheel-reza-baluchi-atlantic-ocean" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hamster wheel hit a snag</a> when the U.S. Coast Guard intervened 70 nautical miles off the Georgia coast.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.zawya.com/en/life/entertainment/robbie-williams-offers-services-as-celebrity-protester-in-switzerland-nbupnpix" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story4.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 62" class="wp-image-7528 size-full" title="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 62" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story4.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story4-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story4-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Pop star turned &#8216;paid celebrity protester&#8217;</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">With rates he claims are cheaper than Bieber&#8217;s, <a href="https://www.zawya.com/en/life/entertainment/robbie-williams-offers-services-as-celebrity-protester-in-switzerland-nbupnpix" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.zawya.com/en/life/entertainment/robbie-williams-offers-services-as-celebrity-protester-in-switzerland-nbupnpix" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Robbie Williams is trading the stage</a> for the streets as a &#8216;paid celebrity protester.&#8217;</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/feel-good/watch-a-museum-displays-inventions-that-flopped-to-overcome-stigma-of-failure-10dfd34e-5d36-4b0a-badf-c7f79a14364c" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="799" height="532" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story5.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 63" class="wp-image-7529 size-full" title="Monday Musings 18 September: Be your own wrecking ball. It’s good for business! 63" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story5.jpg 799w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story5-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-09-18-MondayMusings-Story5-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Museum of Failure: Where flops find a home</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/feel-good/watch-a-museum-displays-inventions-that-flopped-to-overcome-stigma-of-failure-10dfd34e-5d36-4b0a-badf-c7f79a14364c" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.iol.co.za/news/feel-good/watch-a-museum-displays-inventions-that-flopped-to-overcome-stigma-of-failure-10dfd34e-5d36-4b0a-badf-c7f79a14364c" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Washington DC&#8217;s Museum of Failure celebrates </a>the art of the flop, showcasing over 150 failed products from Trump steaks to fish-flavoured water for cats.</p>
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		<title>Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#8217;s forests… and life!</title>
		<link>https://bigambitions.co.za/monday-musings-10-july-canine-capers-unleashing-new-tricks-in-irelands-forests-and-life/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Natalia Rosa]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:23:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Monday Musings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bigambitions.co.za/?p=7228</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Staring down the barrel of another decade, a colleague and I recently shared a candid conversation over a quick work catch up. From our respective corners of the world &#8211; mine temporarily relocated to the emerald greenery of Ireland &#8211; we pondered life’s “what ifs” and the chances left for us to grab at something [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Staring down the barrel of another decade, a colleague and I recently shared a candid conversation over a quick work catch up. From our respective corners of the world &#8211; mine temporarily relocated to the emerald greenery of Ireland &#8211; we pondered life’s “what ifs” and the chances left for us to grab at something new, something thrilling.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">My companion through this contemplation has been my brother&#8217;s ever-busy Irish collie, Arlo. We traverse forest trails together daily, sometimes even twice when I&#8217;m up for the challenge. Through the trees, along the mossy paths, (often when it’s raining, which it appears to do on a whim in Ireland), Arlo’s endless energy is infectious. As he barrels along, carefree and brimming with joy, I find myself reflecting on my own routines, habits &#8211; a creature of comforts, like so many of us.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">An email from Alex Brogan popped up last week, discussing <a href="https://alyjuma.medium.com/the-regret-minimization-framework-how-jeff-bezos-made-decisions-4d5a86deaf24" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jeff Bezos’ Regret Minimisation Framework</a>. You know the one &#8211; looking at life’s choices through the rear-view mirror of an 80-year-old self. The woods, the walks, and the wisdom seemed to collide in this moment, delivering a Eureka I was not expecting but so desperately needed. Read more about it and the practical tips the framework provides <a href="https://alexbrogan.beehiiv.com/p/bezos-regret-minimization-framework-time-s-worth-more" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> (you’ll need to subscribe but it’s worth it).&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Choices feel weighty. The road splits ahead, and every path seems both inviting and intimidating. One of those splits led to a highway (thank you Arlo *not*). Yet, as I watch his “Royal Fluffiness” chase his tail, and herds upon herds of sheep, oblivious to the worries of the world, I&#8217;m reminded that it&#8217;s okay to change course, to sniff out new adventures, to chase after that elusive rabbit (figuratively speaking, of course).</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="591" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsBunny.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 68" class="wp-image-7230" title="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 68" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsBunny.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsBunny-300x222.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsBunny-768x567.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This Regret Minimisation Framework is a reminder that we are allowed to pursue our passions and shift our directions, and it&#8217;s perfectly fine if the path is sometimes strewn with twigs and a stray pinecone or two. After all, wouldn’t our 80-year-old selves applaud our courage and regret the paths left untrodden?</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, here&#8217;s to your new dream, to grabbing those opportunities, and to teaching old dogs new tricks. To finding that elusive work-life balance, even if it takes a rowdy Irish Collie and a bit of Irish luck.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Here&#8217;s to you. You’ve got this, friend.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mindful Musings</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="565" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsQuote.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 69" class="wp-image-7231" title="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 69" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsQuote.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsQuote-300x212.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsQuote-768x542.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Marketing Musings</strong></h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>The power of faces: A new perspective in travel marketing</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsMarketing.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 70" class="wp-image-7232" title="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 70" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsMarketing.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsMarketing-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsMarketing-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The travel industry has long been defined by its ability to showcase stunning landscapes and iconic landmarks, leveraging the allure of undiscovered territories to attract potential travellers.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">But what could be more compelling than capturing that moment of pure, unfiltered joy on a traveller&#8217;s face? That beaming selfie taken in front of a landmark screams louder than a thousand brochures of empty landscapes. It says: &#8220;Look, this could be you living your best life!&#8221;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As marketers, it’s easy to fall into the allure of stunning landscapes and iconic landmarks. But here&#8217;s the rub: it&#8217;s the people, not just the places, that make the travel experience unforgettable. Emotion, connection, and human experience are what we yearn for, and seeing another person experiencing those things elicits a powerful response.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">It&#8217;s a subtle shift, but one that can significantly enhance engagement. Replacing that static image of a landmark with a dynamic photo of a person genuinely enjoying that space invites potential travellers to imagine themselves in that moment. It transports them from the realm of longing into the exhilarating realm of possibility.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The use of human-centred visuals in travel marketing is more than just a trend &#8211; it&#8217;s an evolution. It underscores the importance of experience and connection, and it reflects the ultimate objective of travel &#8211; not merely to see new places but to immerse oneself in them. The lesson today? Bring “people” to the forefront of travel marketing. Show potential travellers not only the places they could go, but the experiences they could have, the emotions they could feel, and the memories they could create. Because, after all, the most captivating stories aren&#8217;t just about places—they&#8217;re about people living their best lives in those places.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Teams Musings</strong></h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Empathy: The winning edge for effective leadership</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>by Teresa Richardson</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsTeams-1.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 71" class="wp-image-7245" title="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 71" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsTeams-1.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsTeams-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsTeams-1-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In today&#8217;s ever-evolving business landscape, empathy has become an absolute game-changer for leaders. It&#8217;s not just about sympathising with your team; it&#8217;s about forging deep connections that foster trust, collaboration, and incredible performance.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Tracy Brower&#8217;s Forbes article, &#8220;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2021/09/19/empathy-is-the-most-important-leadership-skill-according-to-research/?sh=27ec51ed3dc5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Empathy is the Most Important Leadership Skill</a>”, empathy holds the key to being an effective leader.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Picture this: by truly understanding and connecting with your team on a profound level, you gain a strategic advantage that propels you towards success. When everyone feels valued and supported in your company culture, magic happens. It&#8217;s like creating a safety net that encourages open communication and boosts productivity to new heights.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">But here&#8217;s the great part: empathy isn&#8217;t a one-size-fits-all skill. It&#8217;s adaptable to different leadership styles. Let&#8217;s break it down:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Dominance Style</strong>: If you&#8217;re an empathetic leader with this style, you know that your team&#8217;s opinions matter. You actively listen, encourage diverse viewpoints, and promote empowerment and collaboration. You&#8217;re all about letting those voices be heard.</li>



<li><strong>Influencing Style</strong>: Now, leaders with this style harness empathy to create an upbeat and engaging work environment. You build personal connections, provide support, and inspire your team by truly understanding their motivations and celebrating their achievements. You&#8217;re the cheerleader they need.</li>



<li><strong>Steadiness Style</strong>: Are you an empathetic leader who focuses on creating a harmonious and supportive workplace? You genuinely care about your team members&#8217; well-being. You lend a listening ear and provide stability, fostering open communication and trust. Your team knows they can count on you.</li>



<li><strong>Conscientiousness Style</strong>: If you&#8217;re a leader with this style, you appreciate the unique strengths and challenges of each team member. You take the time to understand their individual needs, offer clear guidance, and provide constructive feedback. You&#8217;re all about continuous improvement and creating a culture that encourages it.</li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><br>Now, here&#8217;s the real deal: embracing empathy is a total game-changer. It transforms the way teams function and thrive. When empathy is in the air, you create an inclusive and compassionate work environment where everyone can shine. Trust me, it unlocks the full potential of individuals and teams like nothing else.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, aspiring leaders, here&#8217;s your golden ticket: recognise empathy as your secret strategic advantage on the path to success. Start your empathy journey today and witness the remarkable impact it has on your leadership effectiveness. Want to know more? Visit <a href="http://www.tmreworked.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.tmreworked.com</a>.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What the world was musing over</strong></h3>



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://news.sky.com/story/outrage-at-tourism-agency-after-philippines-advert-uses-footage-from-other-countries-12913973" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory1.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 72" class="wp-image-7233 size-full" title="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 72" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory1.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory1-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Copy-paste fiasco in the Philippines</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a blooper of geographical proportions, a tourism agency faces backlash for rebranding <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/outrage-at-tourism-agency-after-philippines-advert-uses-footage-from-other-countries-12913973" target="_blank" rel="noopener">foreign locales as the Philippines</a> in their latest ad.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/weird-news/weetabix-settles-age-old-milk-30405706" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="532" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory2.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 73" class="wp-image-7234 size-full" title="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 73" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory2.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory2-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Milkgate: Weetabix wades into frothy cereal debate</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In an audacious move, Weetabix finally settles the infamous <a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/weird-news/weetabix-settles-age-old-milk-30405706" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cereal-vs-milk sequence debate</a>, stirring a breakfast bowl controversy.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-66112648" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory3.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 74" class="wp-image-7235 size-full" title="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 74" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory3.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory3-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Threads vs Tweets: Zuckerberg’s Twitter rival rakes in 30m users on debut</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">With <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-66112648" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Meta&#8217;s Threads app</a> amassing a staggering 30 million sign-ups on day one, the Twitter battleground heats up. Imitation or innovation? You decide.</p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://allthatsinteresting.com/pompeii-pizza-fresco" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory4.jpg" alt="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 75" class="wp-image-7236 size-full" title="Monday Musings 10 July: Canine Capers: Unleashing new tricks in Ireland&#039;s forests… and life! 75" srcset="https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory4.jpg 800w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory4-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bigambitions.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023_07_10MondayMusingsStory4-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Pompeii Pizzeria: Ancient ‘Pizza’ fresco unearthed amidst ruins</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Giving ‘stone-baked’ a new meaning, archaeologists uncover a <a href="https://allthatsinteresting.com/pompeii-pizza-fresco" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&#8216;pizza&#8217; fresco in Pompeii</a>, raising the crust on the origins of Italy’s favourite dish.</p>
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