The Larsen Group

Circles of Change:  Conversations with Dr. Zara Larsen

 on Change Leadership and Career Fulfillment

November 2, 2008

Anchoring Points:

1. My lifelong fascination with the lives and times of the First Ladies of the United States started in the 1960’s, following my namesake after the death of her husband, President John F. Kennedy.  I continue to learn from this very special sorority of ordinary women who lived extraordinary lives.

2. Regardless of what happened yesterday or today, life goes on.  The beauty and renewed growth of spring follows the harsh and sometimes destructive nature of winter.

3. I learned from my parent how knowledge is empowering and reading is the key to opening that door – before role models and empowerment existed.

4. Passion and commitment is more valuable than degrees.  Finding and sharing your voice is critical, which I experience by participating in conferences to share the wisdom of the First Ladies with others.

5. Dare to dream – affirmations and thoughts create reality.  It’s not too late to start.  I was over 50 years old when I began the four year process of writing this first in a two-part series.

6. The only time you can fail is when you give up.  Setbacks, mistakes, and disappointments are inevitable and even essential.  Don’t allow obstacles like time, finances, health or resources prevent you from starting your journey.

7. Achieving your dreams requires continuous and persistent action. The words we use and the things we tell ourselves lead to outcomes.

8. You don’t need – nor will you have – all the answers in advance. Expect the unexpected. Leverage local resources: libraries, other small businesses, the internet and personal support.

9. For those looking to write and publish, accept and embrace the three “R’s” – Revise, Rephrase, and Rework. Multiple drafts ARE part of the process.

10.  President Harry Truman said, “There is nothing new in the world, except the history you do not know.”

·        It’s not what you get – but rather what you become.