In the latest episode of «The Talk by Mentorguru», I had the pleasure of interviewing Per-Egill Frostmann, one of Norway’s most experienced advisors in leadership and organizational development. With over 30 years of experience as an executive coach, mentor, and consultant, Per-Egill has worked with leading organizations in Norway and internationally.
Key Topics We Covered in the Episode:
How to Build Effective Leadership Teams – What distinguishes a high-performing team from one that struggles?
Common Pitfalls in Change Management – Per-Egill shares his experiences on what often goes wrong and how to avoid it.
The Future of Leadership – How can today’s leaders prepare for a world that is changing faster than ever?
Personal Reflection – How do you stay motivated and relevant after decades of demanding work?
Key Quotes from the Episode:
«We learn more from our failures than from our successes.»
«Cultural differences challenge leaders to think differently but also provide great opportunities.»
«Effective leadership teams start with trust – without it, everything else falls apart.»
Chris Argyris says: «No one can develop anyone else, except the individual themselves. The door to development is locked from the inside.»
Listen to the Full Episode:
Tune in to gain all these insights and more! You can find us on your favorite podcast platform.
Join the Conversation:
What do you think are the biggest leadership challenges of the future? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s discuss!
In a world where stress and anxiety are on the rise, many are seeking effective methods to manage psychological challenges. One such method that is gaining ground for its remarkable results is Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). This blog post will explore how EFT, often referred to as «tapping» or mental acupuncture, works and its impact on mental health.
What is EFT?
EFT is a psychological acupressure technique, often referred to as tapping. It combines elements from acupuncture, neurolinguistic programming, energy medicine, and thought field therapy. The method involves tapping lightly on specific meridian points on the body while focusing on a particular emotional stressor or psychological issue.
Fundamental Principles of EFT
The core principle behind EFT is that all negative emotions are due to disturbances in the body’s energy system. By tapping on selected points while thinking about and verbalizing the specific issue, it is claimed that one can restore balance in the energy system, thereby reducing or eliminating the negative symptom.
EFT and Psychological Issues
EFT has proven particularly effective in addressing a range of psychological disorders, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and phobias. What makes EFT appealing is its ability to quickly reduce the emotional impact of memories and incidents that trigger psychological discomfort. This can often be achieved in just a few minutes, and the results are sometimes permanent.
Research Support for EFT
Several studies have supported the effectiveness of EFT. Research indicates that tapping can reduce the production of cortisol, a stress hormone, and increase the production of serotonin, a well-being hormone, contributing to a sense of calm. Furthermore, clinical trials have shown that EFT can be as effective as traditional therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, in treating certain psychological conditions.
Personal Stories and Testimonials
The most powerful affirmations of EFT’s effectiveness often come from personal stories and testimonials. Many people from around the world have shared their experiences on how EFT has helped them overcome serious psychological issues and led to significant life improvements. These stories not only underline the method’s potential but also provide hope to those who are still struggling.
Concluding Thoughts
In the quest for better mental health, it is important to keep an open mind about alternative treatments like EFT. While it is not a «one-size-fits-all» solution, EFT has proven to be a valuable method for many seeking peace and emotional freedom. By integrating traditional and modern therapeutic techniques, we can open the doors to new, effective ways to heal. As we continue to explore and understand the influence of energy-based therapies, we can potentially revolutionize the way we treat psychological disorders, offering pathways to peace for those in need.
In this blog post, we have looked at how EFT works, its scientific basis, and personal success stories. It becomes clear that while more research is needed to fully understand and verify EFT’s effectiveness, it offers a promising alternative for those seeking relief and healing in their mental health struggles.
If you talk or understand Norwegian, you can listen to my podcast about the topic.
Change is everywhere. It’s inevitable in both work and life. But why do we resist something that is so natural? Our brain loves comfort – it’s an expert at exaggerating threats and convincing us to stay put. But what if we could learn to embrace change?
Why Do We Resist Change? It’s not because we’re lazy. It’s because of uncertainty. Our reptilian brain is hardwired to keep us safe, not happy. Change feels like a threat, even when it’s an opportunity to grow.
How to Approach Change with Curiosity:
Small Steps Lead to Big Results: Start by switching one habit – your toothpaste, your route to work, or say «yes» to something you’d normally say «no» to. Small choices can lead to significant transformations over time.
Make Your Brain Less Dramatic: When your brain screams «CHAOS!» – breathe. Ask yourself: What’s the worst that can happen? Write down one thing you can learn from the situation.
Remember the Butterfly Effect: Even the smallest actions can have massive consequences. Maybe it’s time to test a tiny change and see how it ripples through the rest of your life.
Conclusion: Change doesn’t have to be scary. It can be innovative, inspiring, and even fun. Take a small step outside your comfort zone today – you never know what might happen!
In today’s digital age, the field of coaching has transcended traditional boundaries, moving from face-to-face interactions to dynamic online environments. At Nomad Coaching, we’ve embraced this shift, and in our latest podcast episode titled «Success in Online Coaching,» we explore the ins and outs of making this transition not just workable, but successful. This blog post delves deeper into the themes discussed in the episode, offering insights and practical advice for aspiring and established online coaches alike.
1. Embracing Technology: The first step to successful online coaching is embracing the technology that makes it possible. From selecting the right platforms for video calls to utilizing tools for scheduling and client management, technology is the backbone of digital coaching. However, it’s not just about using these tools, but mastering them to enhance interaction and ensure a seamless coaching experience.
2. Clear Communication: Effective communication is critical, especially when physical cues are absent. Online coaches need to hone their verbal and written communication skills to ensure clarity and understanding. Setting clear expectations and regular check-ins can help maintain open lines of communication and keep both coach and client aligned with the goals.
3. Building Trust Online: Perhaps the biggest challenge in online coaching is building and maintaining trust without face-to-face interactions. Successful online coaches are adept at creating a sense of presence and reliability that reassures clients. This involves being consistent, punctual, and responsive, and providing a secure and confidential environment for clients to share openly.
4. Customizing Coaching Methods: Online coaching should not be a one-size-fits-all approach. Tailoring your coaching methods to fit the individual needs of each client is essential. This might mean adjusting your techniques based on the client’s personality, preferences, and the specific obstacles they face in their personal or professional lives.
As we navigate the complexities of online coaching, the opportunity to reach a global audience and make a significant impact in their lives grows. By mastering technology, enhancing communication skills, building trust, and customizing our approach, we can achieve great success in this new coaching frontier.
Call to Action: Interested in learning more about how you can succeed in online coaching? Tune in to our latest podcast episode «Success in Online Coaching» for expert insights and real-life success stories. Discover how you can expand your coaching practice and reach your full potential in the digital age!
When we think of competitions, we often imagine sports, music, or other well-known arenas. But what about the competition to be the best server? Mathias, Norway’s champion in the field of waiting and restaurant manager at Oslo Military Society, shows us that perfection and passion can be taken to a whole new level—even in the art of service.
In our latest podcast episode, we dive into what drives Mathias to compete and excel in his job. From his first nerve-wracking competitions to building an enormous following on TikTok with over 226,000 followers, he shares how he has used social media to inspire and educate. Here is a man who doesn’t just serve food but also captivates and educates his audience with humor and professionalism.
Mathias also shares his best tips for inner motivation:
Set small, clear goals that give you direction.
Embrace your mistakes—they are the stepping stones to success.
Find your passion and cultivate it, even if it means spilling wine now and then.
This episode is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about personal development, handling pressure, and building a professional image without losing authenticity. Tune in to discover how Mathias has managed to combine his competitive spirit with passion and humor to create a unique career.
In the evolving landscape of business, where agility and strategic insight command the forefront, traditional roles are being reimagined to meet these new demands. Among them, accountants are stepping beyond the bounds of ledgers and tax filings to embrace a more holistic, mentorship-focused approach. This transformative shift is not just redefining what it means to be an accountant but is also reshaping how businesses envision growth and success.
Why a Mentorship-Driven Approach Matters
Traditionally, the relationship between a business and its accountant was transactional—centered around compliance, record-keeping, and financial reporting. Today, however, forward-thinking accounting firms are breaking this mold. They are evolving into strategic partners that not only crunch numbers but also craft futures. This paradigm shift towards mentorship in accounting is proving to be a game-changer for businesses seeking not just to survive but to thrive.
Accountants as mentors mean that businesses now have allies equipped with financial acumen and business insights capable of guiding them through complex decisions and market dynamics. These professionals help businesses interpret financial landscapes, manage risk, and seize opportunities in ways that were previously untapped.
Strategic Guidance and Informed Decision-Making
When accountants step into their roles as mentors, they bring a wealth of knowledge that spans beyond general finance. They help business leaders understand the implications of their financial data, providing insights that inform strategic planning and decision-making. From budget forecasts to growth strategies, accountants as mentors ensure that business decisions are both data-driven and strategically sound.
Navigating Challenges with Expert Insights
The journey of a business is fraught with challenges—from cash flow issues to regulatory demands and economic fluctuations. Accountants as mentors are uniquely positioned to guide businesses through these challenges, armed with expertise in financial regulations, economic trends, and industry benchmarks. They provide a steadying hand on the tiller during turbulent times, helping businesses to not only navigate risks but also to position themselves advantageously for future growth.
Building Long-Term Relationships
The shift towards a mentorship model also signals a deeper commitment to client relationships. Accountants who act as mentors invest in the long-term success of their clients, fostering relationships built on trust and enhanced communication. This partnership approach encourages a deeper dialogue about goals, strategies, and visions for the future, aligning business efforts with financial tactics more seamlessly than ever before.
Conclusion: The Accountant of Tomorrow
The accountant of tomorrow is more than a number cruncher; they are a pivotal part of their client’s strategic advisory team. As businesses continue to navigate an increasingly complex world, the value of having a mentor who understands both the minutiae of finance and the broader strokes of business strategy becomes clear. Accountants are not just preparing tax returns; they are preparing businesses for a prosperous future.
In embracing this role, accounting firms are not only enhancing their service offerings but are also setting a new standard for what it means to be a true partner in business. It’s about building futures together, not just balancing books. And in this new era, that makes all the difference.
Welcome to today’s reality, where we run between meetings, emails, and a work culture that could make even a Duracell bunny take a break and catch its breath. October 10th marks World Mental Health Day, and this year’s focus is on mental health in the workplace. And with good reason! The working world has become a place where «balance» often feels like a theoretical state we hear about in TED Talks, not something we actually experience. So, let’s talk about what we can do—and why something as simple as calling a friend for 8 minutes might just save your day (and maybe theirs).
What Exactly Is Mental Health?
Mental health isn’t just a concept for psychology textbooks; it’s how you feel, think, and manage the daily challenges—whether they’re screaming in all caps or whispering quietly in the background. And here’s the thing: just like physical health, mental health can fluctuate day to day. Some days, you’re ready to conquer the world. Other days? It’s more like hiding under the covers and praying no one asks you anything complicated.
Mental vs. Psychological Health – Same Same, But Different?
Let’s take a minute to clear up the jargon. Mental health is about living your best day-to-day life with a healthy balance. Psychological health issues are the clinical side—when your mind says, “Houston, we have a problem.” The statistics are crystal clear: women report stress, anxiety, and depression more often than men. But hold on, says Svend Aage Madsen, an expert who points out that men aren’t handling stress any better; we just ask them the wrong questions. Spoiler alert: men struggle too, they’re just less likely to admit it.
Differences by Gender and Age
Since we’re on the topic, let’s talk about why stress looks different depending on whether you’re a 25-year-old master’s student or a 45-year-old parent with a boss complex. Young adults (think 18-29) tend to mentally collapse under the pressure of social media and “life goals” being churned out on TikTok at a pace no one can keep up with. For adults, the culprit is often the workplace’s «little contribution» to burnout. Work and personal life doing a never-ending dance where neither remembers the steps.
A Bit of Scary Statistics to Cool the Mood
• 44% of us experience loneliness to some degree. • One in five has few or no people to talk to when it really matters. • 86,000 (!) people experience serious workplace bullying every month.
When the numbers scream this loud, it’s time to listen. Ever wondered why so many people wear fake smiles during Teams meetings? This might be why.
What Can We Do? (Yes, There Is Hope!)
Okay, so we know the situation is tough. But here are a few tips that actually work, and they’re so simple you might roll your eyes:
Set boundaries – Don’t be the person who says “yes” to everything just to be seen as the office hero. No one’s applauding when you’re burnt out and sulking in a corner.
Create stress-relief routines – Whether it’s yoga, walks, or putting your phone on airplane mode to listen to birdsong (real or on YouTube).
Seek help when you need it – There’s no shame in admitting you need to talk to someone. It’s actually pretty brave. And no, you’re not the “weird one” at work for calling a therapist.
Bonus Points for Getting a Mentor
Think mentors are reserved for international CEOs and Oprah Winfrey? Think again! A mentor can be your secret weapon for handling work pressure, developing self-awareness, and having someone to brainstorm with who doesn’t redline everything you say.
Conclusion: Call a Friend
So, here’s my challenge to you even after World Mental Health Day: call a friend you haven’t talked to in a while. Give them 8 minutes of your time. Not just because it’s nice, but because it could make a difference—for both of you.
Mental health isn’t just important the 10. of October; it’s important every day. So take care of yourself, set boundaries, seek support, and for the love of all things good, remember to live a little between work sessions.
Mental health is one of the most important aspects of our well-being – and this applies just as much in the workplace. Unfortunately, many people struggle in silence, and the statistics speak for themselves: a full 44% of us feel lonely to some degree, and for many, it has become a challenge to find balance between work and personal life.
So, what can we do to improve our mental health at work? Here are some practical tips:
Set Boundaries Boundaries are key to avoiding burnout. Know what you can and cannot do, and speak up when things get overwhelming. This is not just to protect yourself but also to ensure that you deliver quality in your work. It’s okay to take breaks!
Establish Stress-Relief Routines Managing stress isn’t just about what you do when you’re already stressed, but about what you do to prevent it. Find an activity that helps you unwind – maybe yoga, a walk, or music? Having a regular routine for decompressing, especially after a long workday, can work wonders for both your physical and mental health.
Seek Help When You Need It There’s no shame in asking for help. If things start to get overwhelming, talk to someone. It could be a friend, a colleague, or a professional. Often, putting your feelings into words is the first step towards feeling better.
And let’s not forget – having a mentor or coach can be incredibly valuable when it comes to developing self-awareness and coping strategies for handling work pressure. They’re there to support you and provide advice, whether it’s about goal setting or emotional guidance. So don’t hesitate to seek that extra support.
On this World Mental Health Day, I encourage you to take a few moments to reflect on how you can strengthen your own mental health. And maybe, once you’ve done that, you can call an old friend and give them 8 minutes of your time. You never know what difference a conversation can make.
Listen to my podcast «The talk – by Mentorguru» – in Norwegian to learn more about mental health and tools.
First things first: let’s define the playing field.
The Knowledge Industry is the cool cousin in your professional family, dealing with sectors that produce, refine, and distribute the most powerful substance known to humankind: knowledge. We’re talking education, R&D, IT solutions that make your brain hurt just thinking about them, and those elite consultants who probably charge per second.
Then, there’s the Self-Education Industry. Imagine all the DIY enthusiasts but for learning—people pursuing knowledge outside traditional classrooms, armed with Wi-Fi and too much caffeine. This is the space of online courses, e-books, webinars, video tutorials, and apps. It’s like Hogwarts for grown-ups who want to learn accounting or advanced salsa from their couch.
The Good, the Bad, and the “Why Am I Doing This?” of Self-Education
The Pros:
Flexibility that fits around your chaotic life.
Customizable learning paths that don’t require a thousand-page syllabus.
Skills are as fresh as that “first day of school” outfit.
The Cons:
Quality control that sometimes makes you wonder if your instructor just Googled the syllabus.
The paradox of choice—too many courses make you click on Netflix instead.
Lack of hand-holding, which can be great until you’re metaphorically drowning in educational PDFs.
The Titans: Udemy and Coursera
Udemy is like the Walmart of online learning. Need to know how to code? Check. Want to learn underwater basket weaving? Double-check. With over 100,000 courses, there’s something for everyone, and most courses are priced in that sweet $25-$200 range. But watch out: anyone can teach, so sometimes it’s more “Steve from accounting shares Excel tips” than “Professor from MIT breaks down quantum physics.”
Coursera, on the other hand, is Udemy’s more academic, snooty sibling. Backed by universities and offering everything from certificates to degrees, Coursera boasts partnerships with over 100 Fortune 500 companies and 82 million students. The downside? It can lean more theoretical, so you might learn the art of persuasion but still not convince your dog to stop barking at 3 a.m.
Why Coaches and Mentors Should Care – “Ah, I see” moments for mentors and coaches
Now, why am I, a man who prefers deep conversations and caffeine to trends, waxing poetic about the Knowledge Industry? Because, my friends, this trend could be your ticket to a bigger impact (and, let’s be honest, a healthier bank account).
Three key benefits for coaches and mentors:
Staying Updated: The Knowledge Industry is like a buffet for your brain. Want to learn the newest techniques in motivational interviewing? Need a brush-up on emotional intelligence? There’s a course (or ten) for that.
Building Expertise: Specialization is the name of the game. Why not position yourself as “the coach who conquered executive coaching” or the mentor known for mindfulness workshops that leave participants Zen’d out?
Monetizing Your Knowledge: Why not throw your hat into the self-education ring by developing your own course? Be the Udemy instructor you wish you’d had.
Mark Your Digital Territory
Let’s talk about social media, the necessary evil. If you’re not using it, you’re basically coaching in a void. Here’s how to stop lurking and start thriving:
Pro tips:
Know Your Audience: LinkedIn for the suit-and-tie crowd, Instagram for those who live on avocado toast.
Make Your Profile Pop: Ditch the selfie and bring on the pro headshots. No one trusts life advice from someone with an angle that screams, “My arm is my tripod.”
Engage, Engage, Engage: Social media is a two-way street. Reply to comments, share insights, and don’t be afraid to slide into relevant DMs (professionally, of course).
And don’t underestimate the power of video content—people love seeing a face behind the tips. It builds trust faster than a free coaching session.
The Final Countdown: Online Presence Matters (because who doesn’t want to be found?)
To wrap up, here’s why you need an online presence:
Visibility: The more you show up online, the more likely you’ll be found by someone who really, really needs your expertise.
Credibility: Sharing knowledge makes people trust you. Sharing success stories makes them want to trust you.
Scalability: With an online footprint, you can go from coaching 10 people a month to inspiring thousands with webinars, online courses, and e-books.
In conclusion, the Knowledge and Self-Education industries are like the Wild West, full of opportunities waiting for coaches and mentors who dare to explore. So saddle up, build that online profile, and start sharing your brilliance. Your future clients are just a course or social media post away from finding you.
Welcome to a world where self-education is more than just a trend; it’s a lifestyle and a necessity in our continuous pursuit of knowledge. With a global value of 15 billion dollars, the self-education and knowledge industries have opened up a new dimension of possibilities for both educators and learners.
In this blog and in my podcast, I will explore how we as coaches and mentors can navigate and benefit from this flourishing sector. From offering personalized courses on online platforms to tailoring learning methods to meet our clients’ needs, the opportunities are endless.
The self-education industry is built on principles of accessibility and flexibility, making learning possible for everyone, everywhere. This aligns perfectly with our goal as mentors: to facilitate personal and professional growth. By leveraging resources like online courses, webinars, and digital libraries, we can support our clients on their learning journeys and provide them with the tools they need to succeed.
I will also discuss strategies for marketing our services through social media, building an online presence, and how we can use technology to engage and inspire our audience. By sharing success stories and valuable content, we can establish ourselves as reliable guides in a world driven by knowledge and learning.
Join the journey, and let’s explore together how self-education can transform our practice and illuminate our clients’ learning journeys. Let’s take the steps together toward a more enlightened and knowledgeable future!
The podcast I am referring too is The talk – by Mentorguru which is mostly in Norwegian, but some also in English. And this particular episode I will record in English and put it out on YouTube.
