Welcome to September! Are you a pumpkin spice fan? I’m not, really—though I think fall may be my favorite season. Still, I try to enjoy each season as it comes, so you won’t catch me rushing ahead to Christmas just yet!

Here are some thoughts for this issue—I’d love to hear yours.

“I’ll look at it when I get back to the office.” “I’d love to do that—let me check my calendar.” “We should get together sometime.”

Sound familiar? Most of us say things like this with good intentions, but then life gets busy. Notifications pile up, urgent tasks push aside thoughtful ones, and suddenly that kind promise slips through the cracks.

The challenge is that if it happens too often, it becomes part of our reputation:

“He never gets back to me.”

“She won’t call.”

“We said a year ago we should meet, and neither of us followed through.”

So how can we avoid that pattern?

Be specific. Instead of “let’s get together sometime,” say, “Can you meet the first week of next month?”

Set deadlines. Try, “I’ll check my calendar and get back to you by Friday. If you don’t hear from me, feel free to remind me!”

Capture it. Whether through voice notes, digital reminders, or a simple list—record it, and then follow through.

Reliability stands out. When people know you mean what you say, trust grows.

One of my favorite roles is helping design the game experiences used by On Purpose Adventures for their teambuilding scavenger hunts. It’s always a learning process—especially because I get to weave in custom content for the companies participating.

That means I learn about fascinating organizations—what makes them unique, the work they do, and the culture they’re building. That personal touch is one reason the OPA experience resonates so well.

Curious? Let’s book a time to talk more about it!

Responsiveness is a valuable skill—but timing matters. Immediate replies aren’t always the wisest choice. Respond too quickly and you might:

Signal that you’re distracted from the task or person in front of you

Appear disengaged in the moment

Convey that you have little else to do

Set expectations you can’t maintain long-term

That doesn’t mean slow responses are better, either. The key is balance: a pattern that’s sustainable, professional, and aligned with your responsibilities. A surgeon’s timeline will differ from an administrative assistant’s.

Once you find the rhythm that works for you, stick with it. Consistency builds trust.

Recently, I toured the CF Sauer plant in Mauldin, where Duke’s Mayonnaise Duke’s Mayonnaise (and other products) are made. Did you know Duke’s is the #2 mayo brand in the U.S.? They’re working hard to expand their recognition beyond the South.

I’ve always leaned toward Hellmann’s, but after a taste test, I can honestly say both have their place. Duke’s tangy, seasoned flavor shines on sandwiches, while Hellmann’s subtle lemon notes are perfect for salads. Why not enjoy both?

The tour also reminded me of the countless behind-the-scenes workers—many in demanding environments—who help bring products to us. I’m grateful for their often-overlooked contributions.

And a big thank-you to Duke’s for the thoughtful swag box they sent after my visit—it was a delightful surprise!

And take a look at this awesome mural by Lacey Hennessey !

Here’s to cooler weather leading to cozier clothes and warm beverages with friends and colleagues! Want to chat? Contact me!