Everyone works through grief and the aftermath of trauma in their own way. Some of us have had success navigating stages of grief, and others have dealt with tragedy in their own, unclassifiable way. It feels safe to say that everyone is different, and everyone ought to be regarded with patience. Sometimes, leaders can be … Read more
This is a “rerun” from last year; some events of the last month have convinced me to share it anew: We’re just a couple weeks from the Winter Solstice, the shortest darkest day of the year. A contrast to the holiday season, it can exacerbate hidden internal sadness in those around us. I love Christmas … Read more
I had a college professor who told us to “do everything 10% faster.” This professor had lots of energy, and got lots done. And, the students who followed this advice seemed to work harder, have more energy, and be happier. Over the last 25 years this advice has proven invaluable; it works for me, too. … Read more
This week’s post is actually a paraphrased email to someone who juggles lots of tasks, wondering how it was possible. In the interest of sharing one way of looking at it, I shared my (loosely held-to) scheme of priorities: 1) Family (with permission to ignore 9-3 on weekdays) 2) Current clients (including former clients; once … Read more
We’re entering a time of year when lots of people have professional development and conference opportunities. Lots of time when attending such an event, you get lots of ideas from the exhibit hall, from networking, from breakout sessions, and from keynote speakers and plenary sessions. You come home with lots of materials, then life happens, … Read more
WARNING: This post is nothing but a story, though you will find usable content at the end. Also, it’s over 700 words. If you’re a long-time loyal reader, though, it’s required reading. (If you’re new to this blog, this is really the last thing you ought to read. I suggest starting here.) As mentioned at … Read more
Leaders must have passion; that is, in their own way, they must show that they care. Talk can only go so far – while an occasional well-done pep talk can be great with the right context and timing, it’s what you do that demonstrates your passion. There’s a lot you can do to show your … Read more
We’ve covered six leadership traits and skills. Now, it’s time to talk about two mindsets that must permeate our leadership behaviors. The first is positivity. Being positive is the way others see that the hard work is worth it. Now, leaders ought not be a fake, smile-plastered, Pollyanna; positive leadership is not “soft” leadership. It … Read more
Leaders are committed to constant self-improvement. Why use the phrase “stretching and growing?” Because you can’t grow if you don’t stretch – And it is possible to stretch without growing. One of two things is always true: 1-I am a perfect master of all my desired skills and capabilities; I’m perfect.or2-I still have room to … Read more
It’s cliche to mock the “do as I say, not as I do” leadership failure. That’s because this failure is way too common. Leaders must consistently model the behavior they expect from others. If you expect your front-line folks to provide great customer service, then use the same standards of interaction when you talk to … Read more