Author: The Carolyle Destiny Group

Greetings, I am pleased to introduce you to my blog site, which aims to provide a comprehensive research perspective focused on essential workplace topics such as personal development, team building, management and leadership, diversity, and much more. These topics are vital in driving organizational success in the public and private sectors. Organizational Behavior (OB) is the field of study that examines human behavior in corporate settings, exploring the interface between human behavior and the organization. My blog draws insights from this discipline to help today's organizations navigate the increasingly complex nature of the modern workplace. With over 40 years of experience serving as a Gulf War Veteran and Senior Army Warrant Officer in logistics and a retired Department of the Army civilian, human have witnessed firsthand how human behavior is ever-changing, sometimes by the minute. Furthermore, embracing diversity can profoundly impact an organization, leading to greater creativity, efficiency, effectiveness, and productivity. Ultimately, these factors contribute to the happiness of stakeholders - the American people. In the 21st century, organizations must find ways to harness the creativity of their diverse workforces to remain competitive. This involves generating ideas, enhancing social skills, and appreciating other cultures and traditions. Organizations that invest in their employees and practice diversity will benefit from the most significant workforce in the world: the American Worker. Join me as we explore the fascinating world of OB together and discover valuable insights that can help you advance your career and achieve long-term success in the workplace.

Year-End Reflection Worksheet

A simple guide to help you pause, reflect, and move forward with purpose

Scripture to Start:
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” — Psalm 90:12

Set aside 30–45 minutes. Be honest. This is for you, not perfection.

1. Looking Back on the Year

Take a deep breath and reflect.

  • What are three moments from this year that stand out the most?
  • What is one major lesson this year taught you?

“Let us examine our ways and test them.” — Lamentations 3:40

2. The Five Areas of Life Reflection

1️⃣ Spiritual Life

  • How consistent was my prayer life?
  • How did my Bible study grow this year?
  • Where did I see God show up in my life?

“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” — James 4:8

Notes:

2️⃣ Relationships (Family, Friends, Inner Circle)

  • Who did I invest in the most?
  • Where were relationships stretched or strained?
  • Who do I need to show up for better next year?

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17

Notes:

3️⃣ Physical Life

  • How well did I take care of my body?
  • What habits helped me?
  • What habits hurt me?

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit?” — 1 Corinthians 6:19

Notes:

4️⃣ Personal & Professional Growth

  • What skills did I develop?
  • What did I learn this year?
  • Where did I stretch myself?

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” — Proverbs 16:3

Notes:

5️⃣ Giving Back

  • How did I give my time, resources, or energy?
  • Who did I help this year?
  • Where do I feel called to serve next?

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” — Acts 20:35

Notes:

3. Reviewing Goals

  • What goals did I accomplish this year?
  • Which ones did I miss—and why?
  • What will I carry forward?

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” — Proverbs 20:18

4. Setting Intentions for the New Year

Write 3 clear goals for the coming year:

“Write the vision and make it plain.” — Habakkuk 2:2

Final Reflection

  • What kind of person do I want to become next year?
  • What do I need to let go of to move forward?

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.” — Isaiah 43:18

Why I Do a Year-End Review Every Year

Why I Do a Year-End Review Every Year

Every year, I sit down and do something that has become non-negotiable for a year-end review. It’s not fancy. It’s not complicated. But it’s powerful./

This time of reflection allows me to slow down and really look at the year—what happened, what I learned, what I did well, and where I need to grow. Reflection matters because it helps us make sense of life. It sharpens our thinking and keeps us grounded.

The Bible reminds us of this in Lamentations 3:40:

“Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.”

John Maxwell says reflection is looking back and learning to pause so you can catch up. That idea has stayed with me for years—and every time I do this review, I’m reminded why.

The Biggest Lesson 2025 Taught Me

If 2025 taught me anything, it’s this: when you put your mind to something, and stay committed, you can accomplish more than you think.

This year, Creative Feeds won Best of Las Vegas. That wasn’t easy. It’s a tough category, and the competition is real. What made it special is that it came from our customers. They believed in us. They voted for us. And that meant everything.

Scripture says in Galatians 6:9:

“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

That verse sums it up perfectly.

Another powerful lesson came from watching my wife’s determination. She stayed focused and committed to helping her son Austin get off the streets, out of a program, and into his own place with his own income. Despite setbacks and emotional challenges, she didn’t quit. That kind of grit is inspiring—and it reminded me what perseverance really looks like.

The Areas That Stretched Me the Most

I’ll be honest—relationships, especially family, stretched me the most this year.

We held a family reunion, spending thousands of dollars to bring everyone together. Family is important, but the connection and fellowship we hoped for just wasn’t there. That was hard.

On top of that, walking alongside a child dealing with mental illness is heartbreaking. It brings frustration, anger, and deep emotional weight. Yet even in that, I’m reminded of Psalm 34:18:

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Giving back was another challenge. I sometimes wonder if today’s youth are even ready to receive guidance. This generation faces so much, and it can feel like your efforts don’t make a difference. Still, Isaiah 55:11 reminds me that seeds planted don’t return empty—even if the results come later.

How Reflection Changed My Thinking

One clear example of reflection at work in my life is my growth in studying the Word of God. As I’ve gone deeper into the Bible, my thinking has matured. My perspective has changed. My decision-making has improved.

Proverbs 4:7 says:

“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”

Reflection has taught me to rely less on myself and more on God. It’s helped me understand that we are just travelers in this life—but we are called to be overcomers.

The People Who Influenced Me Most

I’ve been influenced by many people—some through books, some through teachings, and some who are no longer with us. But one of my greatest influences continues to be my wife. Her strength, discipline, and unwavering commitment to family show me what real leadership and love look like.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As I step into 2026, I’m setting intentional goals:

  • Go deeper in Bible study, including exploring the Ethiopian Bible to better understand Jesus, the prophets, and biblical history.
  • Build wealth with clarity and discipline, using what 2025 taught me as a foundation.
  • Write the book I’ve been carrying for years—2026 is the year it gets done.

Habakkuk 2:2 puts it best:

“Write the vision and make it plain.”

A Call to Action: Your Turn

Now let me ask you—when was the last time you truly reflected on your life?

I encourage you to set aside time to do your own year-end review. It doesn’t have to look like mine, but it should be honest.

Start with these five areas if you’d like:

  1. Spiritual life
  2. Relationships
  3. Physical health
  4. Personal and professional growth
  5. Giving back

Ask yourself:

  • What did I learn this year?
  • Where did I grow?
  • Where do I need to change?
  • What is God calling me to focus on next?

Reflection brings clarity. Clarity brings direction. Direction changes lives.

I’ve been doing this for over 10 years, and it has helped shape who I am today. I believe it can do the same for you.

I wish you a purposeful, prosperous, and powerful 2026.

— Dr. D

Carolyle Destiny Group

The first 90 days

New roles don’t beat us—the voice in our head does. Quiet that enemy, and the ground gets steady.

Days 1–30 — Earn Permission.
Show up curious. Learn names, maps, and pain points. On my first command, a senior sergeant said, “Know the people before the plan.” He was right. Ask, listen, take notes. Serve first.

Days 31–60 — Deliver Small Wins.
Pick two fixes you can finish fast. Ship them. Momentum is character in motion—integrity + follow-through. I once inherited a messy report; a week of cleanup saved the team hours. Tiny win, big trust.

Days 61–90 — Multiply Trust.
Share credit, teach what you’ve learned, and invite better ideas. Influence rises when others feel seen and stronger because you’re there.

Maxwell: title gives position; relationships grant permission; results create production.
Myles Munroe: let purpose set priorities; choose an environment that grows you.

Call to Action (this week):

  • Three 15-min 1:1s to learn goals and headaches.
  • Draft a 90-day one-pager (purpose, people, problems, quick wins).
  • Ship one visible improvement by Friday.
  • Keep a “trust ledger”: promises made / kept.
  • Journal nightly: What I learned. Where I helped.

Receipts: why this 90-day plan works

  • Strong onboarding boosts retention by 82% and productivity by 70%.
  • When managers stay close in onboarding, employees are 3.4× likelier to rate it successful; “exceptional” onboarding doubles role-readiness and lifts job-fit 2.3×. (Gallup.com)
  • High-trust cultures see 50% higher productivity, 106% more energy, 76% more engagement, 74% less stress, and 13% fewer sick days—and employees are far more likely to stay.
  • Mentoring moves careers: mentees are promoted 5× more often; mentors 6× more; mentees more often see salary-grade gains. (MentorcliQ)
  • Reality check: about one-third of new hires don’t last 90 days—better onboarding cuts that churn. (Gallup.com)

You’ve got the tools. Walk the halls slowly, lift others loudly, let your work preach. The bush isn’t out there. It’s fear—already outmatched.

Reference:

 Maxwell, J. C. (2011). The 5 Levels of Leadership: Proven Steps to Maximize Your Potential. Center Street.

Maxwell, J. C. (2020). The Leader’s Greatest Return: Attracting, Developing, and Multiplying Leaders. HarperCollins Leadership.

Maxwell, J. C. (2005/2011). The 360° Leader: Developing Your Influence from Anywhere in the Organization. Thomas Nelson.

Maxwell, J. C. (1998/2007). The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership. Thomas Nelson.

Munroe, M. (2008). In Charge: Finding the Leader Within You. FaithWords.

Munroe, M. (1992). Maximizing Your Potential. Destiny Image Publishers.

Munroe, M. (2014). The Power of Character in Leadership: How Values, Morals, Ethics, and Principles Affect Leaders. Whitaker House.

Embracing Diabetes Remission: A Sweet Journey Towards Health

I wanted to share this article on many of my social media platforms and thought it would benefit this community as well. My family owns a candy store that sells sugar-free, diabetic-friendly treats.

Here, we love sharing the sweeter side of life, especially with our wide selection of sugar-free treats. Imagine the joy of discovering delicious hard candies, chocolates, and cookies—all sweetened with the German product isomalt. These treats won’t spike your blood sugar, cause tooth decay, or lead to weight gain. They’re a delightful surprise that helps you on your journey toward a healthier lifestyle. Our mission at Creative Eats is to offer these wonderful delights that support your path to better health.

A recent encounter in our store sparked a meaningful conversation about diabetes remission, shedding light on the significance of this term. A gentleman shared with me that his diabetes was in remission, a revelation that piqued my curiosity. The gentleman explained how his diligent lifestyle changes, including adjustments to his diet and exercise, had successfully lowered his blood sugar levels to a safe range. This conversation made me think about the implications of the word “remission” compared to “pre-diabetes,” which can often create a false sense of security. Embracing the reality of remission may inspire more individuals to take their health seriously and commit to necessary changes.

What is Diabetes Remission?

Diabetes remission is not a distant dream, but a tangible goal that can be achieved through your own efforts. It occurs when your blood sugar levels fall below the diagnostic threshold without medication intervention. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight, play a crucial role in achieving this goal. It’s crucial to understand that while remission is a significant accomplishment, it does not equate to a cure. It means that your diabetes is being managed well by YOU, but the risk of relapse remains if healthy habits aren’t maintained.

Keeping an Eye on Your Health

Continuous monitoring is essential for managing diabetes effectively. Here are a few vital areas to pay attention to:

1. Blood Sugar Levels: Achieving a healthy A1c level, like 5, is worth celebrating! However, staying vigilant is crucial because blood sugar levels can fluctuate. According to Ann Peters, MD, an Endocrinologist and Professor of Medicine at USC Keck School of Medicine,  “Achieving a healthy A1C isn’t about short-term fixes—it’s about consistent, sustainable habits” (Peters, 2020).  She also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and consistently monitoring blood sugar levels. These habits can make a significant difference in managing diabetes effectively.  Consistency is essential and can make a big difference. On the other hand, individuals experiencing complications like neuropathy may notice symptoms such as tingling or numbness in the extremities if their levels spike, even temporarily.

2.  Symptoms of Nerve Damage: It’s essential to be aware of signs that may indicate issues relating to diabetes management, such as tingling or pain in the hands and feet. Regular monitoring can go a long way in avoiding potential problems.

3. Commitment to Healthy Living: Maintaining your remission status demands dedication to healthy eating and consistent physical activity. Our sugar-free products can be a delicious addition to this lifestyle, making it easier for you to make healthier choices.

Managing Your Risks Effectively

Education & Awareness: Knowledge is power! Engaging with customers and sharing valuable information about diabetes can empower them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Regular Checkups: Encourage regular checkups with healthcare providers to maintain A1c levels and manage medications effectively.

Addressing Psychological Factors: Managing diabetes can be emotionally taxing. That’s why sharing support – like success stories from others on the same journey can provide much-needed encouragement and hope.  

In conclusion, we are proud to be at the forefront of raising awareness about diabetes while offering healthier options through our sweet treats. Remission represents a transformative opportunity rather than a destination. With continuous education, unwavering support, and diligent lifestyle management, we can help individuals with diabetes lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

 We at Creative Eats are here to support your journey toward a healthier lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking a sugar alternative for yourself or someone special, we hope our sugar-free range of products makes your path to wellness sweeter and more enjoyable.  Visit our website to learn more about diabetes and our product line at www.creativeeats.store.

Dr. D

Reference:

Peters, A. L. (2020). Strategies for achieving glycemic control in diabetes care. American Diabetes Association. https://www.diabetes.org/blog/maintaining-good-a1c

Transforming Negative Work Environments

Researchers have identified a growing trend of employees experiencing negative behaviors in the workplace. A landmark study by Schat, Frone, and Kelloway in 2006 reported that 41.4% of U.S. workers, approximately 47 million individuals, encountered psychological antagonism at work over the past year. Similarly, a U.S. government survey of federal employees found that 13% witnessed negative workplace behaviors.

Studies have explored the relationship between work-related psychosocial hazards and psychological illness. Negative behaviors, such as manipulation, exploitation, bullying, degrading treatment, and harassment, have been extensively labeled and studied (Zapf & Einarsen, 2003).

Recent research highlights the link between negative behaviors and employee health. Bowling and Beehr (2006) found significant relationships between negative behaviors and symptoms like depression and anxiety. Additionally, Djurkovic et al. (2004) noted that workplace bullying indirectly contributes to ill health and increased employee turnover intentions.

These studies confirm that psychological workplace hazards and negative behaviors lead to high absenteeism and turnover rates. A study by the University of Copenhagen followed 2,154 healthcare workers over three years, revealing a strong correlation between negative work environments and high turnover rates. Key factors driving turnover included poor leadership, constant exposure to negative behaviors, and health problems (Hogh A, Hoel H, Caneiro IG, 2011b).

Updated References and Examples:

  1. Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace Report (2023): This report highlights that only 20% of employees worldwide are engaged at work, with many citing negative workplace environments as a key factor.
  2. Case Study: Google: Google has implemented robust employee support systems and open communication channels to combat negative workplace behaviors, resulting in higher employee satisfaction and lower turnover rates.
  3. Meta-Analysis by Nielsen & Einarsen (2022): This study found that organizations with comprehensive anti-bullying policies saw a 30% reduction in reported negative behaviors.

Organizations facing these challenges experience reduced productivity, creativity, and work quality, impacting their competitiveness and ability to retain talent. Negative behaviors are costly and undermine organizational goals and success.

To address this, organizations should implement zero-tolerance policies for negative behaviors. Managers and leaders must actively monitor the work environment and maintain open communication channels. Senior managers should hold town hall meetings to gauge the work climate and remain approachable and non-judgmental.

In conclusion, negative workplace environments affect employees across sectors. Mitigating these environments can save organizations from costly medical expenses and reduce absenteeism. Swift action by upper management and leadership is crucial to addressing negative behaviors.

Further research is needed to understand the nature, causes, and consequences of negative workplace behaviors, such as aggression, and to develop effective policies and interventions to reduce such behaviors.

References:

  • Bowling, N. A., & Beehr, T. A. (2006). Workplace harassment from the victim’s perspective: A theoretical model and meta-analysis. Journal of Applied Psychology, 91(5), 998-1012.
  • Djurkovic, N., McCormack, D., & Casimir, G. (2004). The physical and psychological effects of workplace bullying and their relationship to intention to leave: A test of the psychosomatic and disability hypotheses. International Journal of Organization Theory & Behavior, 7(4), 469-497.
  • Gallup. (2023). State of the Global Workplace Report. Gallup.
  • Hogh, A., Hoel, H., & Caneiro, I. G. (2011b). Bullying and employee turnover among healthcare workers: A three-year follow-up study. Journal of Nursing Management, 19(6), 742-751.
  • Nielsen, M. B., & Einarsen, S. V. (2022). What we know, what we do not know, and what we need to know about workplace bullying: An overview of the literature and agenda for future research. Aggression and Violent Behavior, 57, 101476.
  • Schat, A. C. H., Frone, M. R., & Kelloway, E. K. (2006). Prevalence of workplace aggression in the U.S. workforce: Findings from a national study. In E. K. Kelloway, J. Barling, & J. J. Hurrell Jr. (Eds.), Handbook of workplace violence (pp. 47-89). Sage Publications.
  • Zapf, D., & Einarsen, S. (2003). Individual antecedents of bullying: Victims and perpetrators. In S. Einarsen, H. Hoel, D. Zapf, & C. L. Cooper (Eds.), Bullying and emotional abuse in the workplace: International perspectives in research and practice (pp. 165-184). Taylor & Francis.

Feel free to reach out if you need further assistance or have any questions!