Everyone is busy, right? “Busy” is a common notion – so common that saying “We’re keeping busy” is similar to “The sky is still blue.” It’s like it goes without saying. Oh, but it’s still quite loaded. Depending on the context, “busy” means many things: If I am busy, then I’m productiveprosperousa good husband/fathersuccessfulindustrious But if you … Read more
You may recognize this post as a “rerun” of years’ past, but it bears an important reminder that can be easily looked over. We’re edging closer and closer to the Winter Solstice, the shortest and darkest day of the year. As a stark contrast to the holiday season, it can exacerbate hidden internal sadness in … Read more
In an episode of The Office, Michael (manager) is headed home for the day, and reports this to Jo (owner). He’s clearly uncomfortable that he’s ready to leave, while she is still there working harder and longer. She notices this and tells him, “If your work is done, and you’re proud of it, and you … Read more
When I was a teacher, I didn’t get a lot of handwritten notes from my principals and superintendents. So when I did, it was pretty exciting! To think that my boss would make the time to write words of appreciation or encouragement when a pop-by or email might have sufficed, really made a major impression … Read more
I like low-cost and efficient ways to make improvements. If you could make progress without spending much time or money, wouldn’t you try? Here’s one simple, but effective technique: Smile more. It’s the most powerful facial expression or gesture, and causes these two things to happen: 1) We have less stress. 2) Those around us … Read more
If people are mostly doing what they’re supposed to be doing, but only hear criticism, they will have the mistaken belief that they are doing a poor job. In an environment like this, morale, performance, and relationships suffer. If people need critical feedback or performance coaching sometimes, but only hear positive feedback, they will have … Read more
There’s a funny episode from The Office in which Michael thinks that if he makes his office more like Google, then people will be happy and work harder. He goes all out, installs a Nerf hoop, gets a beanbag chair, and creates an open office floor plan. While this was a funny TV show, I’m … Read more
In metro areas with large corporations, there are regular service opportunities for employees, and their outreach is encouraged. But if leaders are to improve productivity and motivate people to improve the bottom line, should they really allow these efforts on work time? Of course. The best leaders know that service efforts are not only helpful … Read more
I once had a business-owner client who really needed to show her enthusiasm more. “Not a lot gets me excited,” she said, “except that I’m really motivated by making money.” She felt a little shallow about that, but also knew her products and services made people’s lives better, which is what motivated her staff. So, … Read more
If you are a parent, you can relate to this situation well: You see your child do something small, but great, like voluntarily cleaning their room, or showing empathy to someone else in the family. You feel pride, and warmth, but you say nothing. Why? Heck, you’d be expanding her ego all day long if … Read more