SOMO Leadership Labs

SOMO TOTD: spot + appreciate

This week’s SOMO TOTD (Task of The Day) is to spot passion in another person + appreciate  him or her for that passion.

For example, I may see my friend Jen Hillman in her element when she’s working with dogs and horses. I could say to her, “Jen, it’s so cool to see you in such amazing flow with animals. You’re amazingly good with them. I appreciate you because you spark something in me to want to be more passionate in my life. Thank you.”

Get over the cheese factor and give it a-go. Take note at what you notice in how you feel. How s/he feels.

Report back here, please.

We’ve learned about oxytocin, people –

“An infusion of the neurohormone oxytocin into research participants’ noses increased their generosity 80% in an experimental game, suggesting that this molecule is responsible for humans’ moral sentiments, says Paul J. Zak of Claremont Graduate University. A previous study showed that an oxytocin infusion can more than double the number of subjects who trusted a stranger with all their money.” (From Harvard business Review. See full research article here.)

How do we produce more oxytocin? That’s right — One thing we can do is to reframe a threat to an opportunity. Small ways of thinking differently can have a big impact. Are you working on it?

Another thing you can do is pet a dog. Research shows that releases oxytocin.

Allergic? How about you pet another human being. Hugs (go from left side to left side so hearts touch) release oxytocin.

And if you’re feeling sexy (and you know it) ladies, have sex. After intercourse, women release oxytocin. Guys, I’m sorry, although it feels good, research shows we release vasopressin, known as the monogamy molecule. #Hm.

For more on oxytocin, read what my friend, colleague, and SOMO Leader Emiliya Zhivotovskaya has to say here.

SOMO TOTD: Give a hug & get one too.

SOMO TOTD: On Love

SOMO Task of the Day (TOTD):

When you say “I love you” to someone . . . complete the sentiment by saying ‘why’ you love him/her/them.

Another way to do this is, “I appreciate you for. . .”

In fact, some research shows that the “appreciate” word goes a longer way than the “love” one.

SOMO TOTD: Invite people to next week’s labs!

SOMO TOTD: 10/5 Principle

SOMO TOTD (Task of the Day) via @Shawn Achor: Keep in mind the 10/5 principle. Simple: When you are within 10 feet of another person, make eye contact & smile. When you are within 5 feet, say hello.