Upstate New York’s startup ecosystem may not yet have the global recognition of Silicon Valley, but its steady rise is hard to ignore. With robust accelerator programs, affordable costs, and a unique sense of community, the region is becoming a destination for entrepreneurs seeking to build and scale impactful businesses. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or innovation enthusiast, Upstate New York offers an exciting frontier for the future of entrepreneurship. 

By practicing active listening, avoiding dismissive language, fostering psychological safety, and showing appreciation, leaders can create workplaces where empathy isn’t just a value—it’s the foundation for success. Remember, empathetic leadership doesn’t just retain employees; it inspires them to bring their best selves to work every day.

Winter blues may be a natural part of the season, but they don’t have to define the workplace. By taking deliberate actions to address seasonal challenges, you can create an environment where employees feel supported, energized, and ready to embrace the new year.

From Hybrid Work 2.0 to the rise of Generative AI and the prioritization of employee well-being, the workplace is evolving faster than ever. Companies like Microsoft, Salesforce, and Unilever are setting the standard by embracing flexibility, sustainability, and continuous learning.

Happiness at work is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for a thriving, productive workplace. By fostering positive relationships, communicating purpose, providing autonomy, offering growth opportunities, and showing appreciation, you can create an environment where employees feel valued and motivated. My personal experience showed me the transformative power of happiness, and I encourage you to implement these simple, science-backed steps to enhance joy in your own workplace. Remember, a happy team is a successful team.

The holidays, from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, bring together family, traditions, and often, clashing personalities. Instead of striving for perfection, this season can be a time to embrace peace and connection through speed to acceptance.

Workplaces thrive on communication, even when it’s hard. Sometimes, the most challenging conversations are the ones that drive the biggest growth—for individuals and for teams.

On World Kindness Day, we're reminded of the power of kindness in the workplace. Despite once being told that they were "too kind" at work, the writer quickly realized that kindness is essential, especially during challenging times, helping to bring people together. Research supports that kindness boosts morale, productivity, and fosters positive workplace culture.

With insights from notable figures like Maya Angelou and Mother Teresa, the article emphasizes simple yet impactful ways to practice kindness at work: actively listening, showing appreciation, offering help, celebrating team wins, being patient and inclusive, and practicing self-kindness. Small acts can create a ripple effect, inspiring others and strengthening the entire organization. This World Kindness Day, let’s make compassion a core part of our work lives.

As the nation stands on the edge of historic change, navigating the uncertainty and emotional toll becomes crucial for both personal well-being and community resilience. Here’s how to approach this moment with a sense of balance, clarity, and commitment to the values that unite us.

Why the Change Curve Is Your Best Friend Right Now (Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like It)

In a world of constant updates, breaking news, and endless industry shifts, it feels like we’re in a nonstop state of change. Navigating these waves can be exhausting—but there’s a tool to help: the Change Curve. Understanding where you are on this emotional journey can make all the difference in how you move forward.

Amy Gurske’s latest blog post breaks down each stage of the change curve, from shock and denial to integration. Whether you’re facing the “Wait, WHAT just happened?” stage or finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, Amy’s insights are designed to help you navigate the ups and downs with confidence.

👉 Ready to move along the Change Curve?
Discover practical steps for identifying where you are and taking positive action. Change won’t stop—and neither should you!

#ChangeManagement #Leadership #GrowthMindset #Resilience

Virtual team-building doesn’t have to be awkward or forced. With the right activities, it’s possible to create meaningful connections and foster a strong team spirit, even from a distance. The key is to experiment, be open to new ideas, and most importantly, have fun together. So, if your team is feeling the remote work blues, give some of these activities a try. You might be surprised at how much of a difference a little virtual fun can make.

Incorporating green spaces into your workday can have a remarkable impact on your mental and physical well-being. Whether it’s filling your office with plants, taking walking meetings, enjoying outdoor lunches, or simply stepping outside for a breath of fresh air, these small changes can make a big difference.

Burnout is a serious issue that can affect anyone, but it’s preventable with the right strategies and support. By recognizing the signs early and taking proactive steps to foster a balanced work environment, you can help yourself and your team avoid burnout and maintain a healthy, productive work life.

Unplugging from the digital world can feel daunting at first, but the benefits are well worth the effort. Improved sleep, better focus, enhanced relationships, and reduced stress are just a few of the rewards waiting on the other side. By encouraging your team to embrace digital detox, you’ll foster a healthier, more productive, and happier workplace.