In today’s hyperconnected business world, saying “yes” seems like the default response. We’re conditioned to believe that every opportunity is golden, every request deserves our attention, and every meeting warrants our presence. However, as Warren Buffett wisely noted, “The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to…
As the elevator doors closed, Michael’s mind raced with doubt. “You’re not ready for this presentation,” a voice whispered, echoing his deepest fears. Just minutes away from pitching his groundbreaking idea to the board, he felt the all-too-familiar grip of anxiety. Yet, in that moment, he recalled Susan Jeffers’ timeless book, Feel the Fear and Do…
In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate culture, Netflix has once again positioned itself as a beacon of innovative and forward-thinking practices. With the recent update to its famous “culture memo,” Netflix continues to challenge traditional corporate norms, emphasizing the principles of freedom and responsibility. This refresh, spearheaded by Chief Talent Officer Sergio Ezama, underscores the…
Growing up with a sports enthusiast father who always had a game on TV or the car radio meant that I was constantly immersed in the world of sports, overhearing stories of athletes he admired, including the legendary basketball player Bill Walton. Walton’s recent passing made me reflect on his remarkable life and career, which…
In today’s high-stress business environment, mental health is not just a personal concern but a leadership imperative. May, being Mental Health Awareness Month, offers an opportune moment for reflection and action. Especially since despite efforts made to improve workforce mental health, employees are still struggling. The recent statistics are a wake-up call: Sixty-one percent of…
As a leader, what can the often-frustrating experience of waiting in line teach us about patience, perspective, presence, and our own anxiety levels? In a delightful foray into the world of lines, Michael Blanding’s Harvard Business Review article, Customers at the Back of the Line Are Anxious—Can You Keep Them from Leaving? pulls back the…
It’s a sad commentary, and unfortunately, I hear it too often during my coaching calls, customization interviews and from conference attendees. “My company’s management talks about how transparent and answerable they are, but to be honest, they’re opaque and far from responsible.” How many times have I heard whispered complaints about leaders who say one…
“How do I keep my team more motivated and engaged?” The above question is asked of me practically every time I speak. I agree that in this post-pandemic, sometimes hybrid, sometimes not hybrid world, that engagement and motivation are often challenging commodities for managers to find. However, that should never stop you from trying –…
Empathy, the necessary human trait of having the ability to share in the feeling of others, is declining in our society. Things have gotten worse, since the article above was published. There are numerous studies on the topic and, of those who care, fingers seem to be pointing to social media, cable news, reality TV…