If you’ve been in a meeting with me lately, you’ve heard me clear my throat... ahem. It's very annoying!
About a month ago, I taught a workshop on Stress Resilience, a thought-provoking topic that I initially researched for a client engagement. That engagement was cancelled, but I have now taught the program in person as a beta test, and adapted it for a shorter client-facing virtual session. I worked hard on exercises that brought concepts to life and encouraged people to think deeply, while respecting workplace boundaries around sensitive topics.
One of the things that got cut in the shortened online programming? A section where I talk about the importance of tending to what I refer to as life scaffolding - sleep, hydration, protein, movement... all the stuff you (and your body) need in order to be supported and keep going. Ah, the irony.
In one of the busiest work-and-life spells since I founded Resolute, I haven't been so good at the scaffolding lately. By the evening of the workshop, my throat was a bit scratchy. That Friday morning's meetings had a lot of "are you sure you're okay?" from kind, concerned clients. By Friday afternoon, I was in bed and stuck there for days.
Adding to my frustration, my beloved husband was away on his annual trip to the beach with his core friend group. As a strong introvert, I had big plans for my alone time - working and walking, sometimes with friends and often in glorious solitude. None of that came to pass!
And so, I have regrouped but it’s taken me a while. Weeks later and I’m still coughing and spluttering… and clearing my throat. Like so many of us, I struggle to plot a steady course of health and wellness. Also like many of us, I've learned the hard way that my business pays a price when I veer too hard to port or starboard... or just let the boiler go out completely!
And so, the core message of this officially occasional newsletter is please take care of yourself. Yes, you. Have a nap. Take a walk. Drink some water. Keep a healthy snack at your desk, bonus if it's also delicious. Get time alone or with people you love, whichever best serves you. Your body and your business will thank you.
Best,
Joanna Kozlowski | Founder | Resolute Consulting
One of the perks of a busy summer? A sidetrip to see the Queen Mary, at anchor in Long Beach, California, with dear sea-faring friends. Chart a steady course!
Curious about that stress resilience topic?
Here are some ideas for you (and, hey, you could always book a workshop!)
Not all stress is bad! Explore eustress to learn more about the power of stress + meaning to energize individuals and tighten bonds between teams. (if you click this link: I love the content of this website, and hate the ads! Keep scrolling, don’t accidentally click through!)
Align energy and impact – also known as don’t waste time on things you can’t change! We have a download here that bridges theory to action, with individual and group exercises to try.
Strong relationships weaken the power of stress. Spend your time with people who nourish you (and be brave about reducing the time you spend with those that don’t).
If you dip into any of these, I'd love to hear your thoughts - drop me a line.
December 11th, 2026 | Annual Year-End Workshop. We’re thrilled to have registration up early this year. Last year we had a waitlist (I’m still pinching myself!) so you may want to book your place quickly.
Who we are and what we do
In case you're new here, or can't remember when you signed up for this "officially occasional" newsletter, I am Joanna Kozlowski. I operate at the intersection of strategy, learning, and execution to tackle my clients' goals with intention, clarity, and focus.
I'm the founder of Resolute Consulting. We help companies set clear strategies, make wise choices, and develop their people in ways that actually change how work gets done.
Resolute provides clarity, accountability, and a trusted thinking partnership for both leadership teams and individuals.
For professional associations and academic institutions, Resolute delivers high-quality, human-centered leadership development and career advisory services that respect adults, volunteers, and real-world constraints, while still providing depth, rigor, and impact.
We are currently scheduling 2027 projects. If you or your team are facing a strategic, leadership, or execution challenge, get in touch.
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