I chose to write about the very first Keynote Presenter, Janine Stange, as I had already had experience with her as a speaker and became a member of her ‘team’ from that occasion, probably in 2020 when COVID made it an online event.  I receive regular emails about her events and enjoy following her even though I don’t send birthday cards to the veterans as regularly as I would like.

Janine, who is known also as the National Anthem Girl gave an overview of how she became known for singing the Star Spangled Banner in all of the 50 states as well as other venues.  Starting as a shy young lady, she wanted to make a name for herself as a singer but needed that very strong push to get started and then found her calling working with many veterans.  She spoke on the topic of “Choose to Rise:  5 Keys to maintain Balance and Ignite Momentum During Times of Disruption.”  Since disruption has become the new normal along side constant change she explained how she uses DROPP to help her.  First is to Decompress, whatever your method, such as deep breathing; then Reconcile; Observe objectively; then Plan and Promise to connect and show up.

Some of the major points that I highlighted from her keynote were the following:

• If you compromise your values, you lose.
• Only 8% of the people who set goals ever reach them.
• Never let them see you sweat.
• Calm is contagious; take a breath, you’ve got time to learn
• You have time to clean
• Check your blind spots and your nose!
• Don’t just say you care; show you care.
• Fear is not that scary and comfort zones are not that comfortable.