It has been a week…my kids started school. I missed their first day because I was hosting a leadership conference (mom of the year award, right?). When I returned, we celebrated my husband and middle son’s b-day’s back-to-back. And, to top things off, I had a colonoscopy this morning. 

This is me, just moments before going under. I tell you, there are few things more humbling than getting a colonoscopy. And, in case you’re concerned, it was just routine…I get them often because of my colitis, which I was diagnosed with 25 years ago. 

I’m telling you this because I learned the power of transparency at that leadership conference I just mentioned. It’s called the Global Leadership Summit (GLS) and it’s the largest annual leadership conference in the world. I’ve been hosting for five years, now. And, it’s been nothing short of TRANSFORMATIVE in my life — I’m a better leader, mom, wife and human for attending. 

And, in case you are wondering…YOU are a leader. 

Here’s something important I learned this week: GOOD LEADERS INVEST IN THEMSELVES. 

I’d like to encourage you in this area — whether it’s reading a book, listening to a podcast, attending a leadership conference, etc. 

Take the time to invest in your leadership. Something I’m really trying to do right now is develop healthy habits, that allow me to be the kind of person I want to be. I’m reading ATOMIC HABITS, that NYT best-selling book by James Clear. In the past, I’ve failed many of the “habits” I was trying to form because I was trying to change the wrong things and change them in the wrong way. James talks a lot about the 1% rule, getting 1% better every day, which equals 37% better each year!

I had the opportunity to interview James at the GLS and had an aha moment around the 1% rule…I’ve got to mentally prepare myself that I won’t see the results right away. It might be that 257th strike on the rock that eventually splits it. But, it was every single strike before, every single 1% that led to it. 

So, what habits am I trying to change? Well, for starters, I’m trying to be healthier, so I don’t end up getting colonoscopies every year. (And, no, I won’t give up fountain drinks, ranch dressing or bacon LOL. I have my limits.) 

My friend, invest in your leadership TODAY! In the meantime, I’ll be chasing my kids around trying to get a “back-to-school” photo about one week late…only you will know the real story! 🤣

TOO GOOD NOT TO SHARE

FARIS FAVORITES

1. Atomic Habits is a Game Changer

I’d like to send one of you a copy of the book that’s been really powerful in my life and is a way that I’m investing in my leadership: ATOMIC HABITS! You know the drill. DM me your mailing address to win!

2. DIY Stain Remover

If your family is a #hotmess like mine, you’ll wonder where this AT HOME STAIN REMOVER has been your whole entire life. Just three ingredients (Hydrogen Peroxide, Dawn Dish Detergent and Baking Soda) and you probably have them at home!   

3. Family Movie Night

Looking for a good family flick? We watched the new Guardians of The Galaxy (Volume 3) and loved it! Plus, if you have a Disney+ subscription, it’s free!

If you're a working mom, make sure you're getting THE CARRY™ ALL, the newsletter by and for working moms! I founded CARRY™ in 2022, to create load-lessening content for working moms and to help carry their many burdens.Here's what you missed in last week's THE CARRY™ ALL:1. A 'LETTER TO' that you're gonna love ✉️

2. The best ways to get your kids ready for the school year ✏️3. How to handle sending your "baby" off to college 😭