They Told Me Not to Use That Word

When I first began speaking and writing about love (over a decade ago), some people felt compelled to warn me not to use that word in a professional setting.

They cautioned that it would close doors, make people uncomfortable, or keep me from being taken seriously. They told me it was a bad idea to talk about Love.

Being “schooled” like this is never fun, especially as a professional, experienced, intelligent woman!

But a funny thing happened: because I knew what I knew, and I knew my assignment; because I was clear, well-researched, and living my purpose, none of these naysayers truly bothered me. I received their advice as care for me. And sometimes their cautions helped me refine my arguments. But nothing ever changed my conviction.

What they didn’t realize is that before I spoke publicly about Love, I prepared.

I studied Love and Fear. I read books, listened, and learned, from neuroscience to behavioral science, from journal articles to real stories. Then I spent more than a year listening to people talk about Love, their objections, their questions, their breakthroughs. 

What those naysayers didn’t realize is that Love opens doors.

Many people are drawn to my work precisely because of Love. Yes, Love may make people uncomfortable at first, but that discomfort signals they’re paying attention. Once engaged, I guide them through a research-based, human-centered journey that activates both logic and emotion.

Naysayers don’t know that I’m not fluffy and esoteric, but realistic and practical about the business case for Love.

When audiences realize this, they relax and open up. They become interested because what I’m describing is what people actually want to experience in their lives.

Would-be advisers also don’t realize that I have been taken seriously in virtually every industry and function: government, business, and non-profit; tech, military, healthcare, and manufacturing; construction, engineering, social services, K-12 and higher ed; law, finance, real estate, and more. 

Today, despite the state of the world, or perhaps because of it, Love in business is on the rise.

Do a Google search or ask your favorite AI tool, and you’ll see a burgeoning number of books, talks, podcasts, and research on Love from thought-leaders around the world. And you’ll find examples of leaders and organizations demonstrating the powerful impact Love can have on people and results.

So as 2026 begins, I’m clear and steady, focused on bringing leaders and teams the insights, tools, and support to put Love at the center of work so both people and results rise together.

What about you?

What have you chosen to do, despite others telling you not to? What does it mean to persist in your own power and clarity?

I’d love to hear!