The Goldilocks Paradox

The Goldilocks Paradox says the path rises between too little and too much.

This post explains how to challenge enough and how to coach just the right amount.

People lean toward extremes. We help too much, or we help too little, for example.

4 questions to dance with extremes.

Elevate Your Emotional Intelligence in 5 Easy Steps 

Emotional Intelligence enables you to stay calm under pressure, resolve conflict skillfully, and connect with people deeply.

Leadership success depends on EQ more than technical talent.

I’m delighted to host another wonderful book giveaway. Today it’s, “Elevate Your Emotional Intelligence.”

I look forward to reading your comments.

Get in early.

Dear Dan: I’m Running Out of Steam

A leader writes that she’s running out of steam.

Leadership doesn’t take action on well-presented ideas.

Here are some ideas for moving the agenda forward.

Practice forward-facing vulnerability. Defensiveness makes you talk too much. Play small ball. And we do what we do because it’s who we are.

More…

My Battle with a Tractor: Tools Make the Job

I spent most of yesterday wrestling our garden tractor into submission. She almost pinned me until I called a friend for help. There’s always one nut or bolt that laughs when you try to loosen it.

Joe had the impact driver I needed.

Tools make the job. Skills are tools.

The Genius of Listening to Stories

Stories invite engagement. I’m talking about hearing another’s story, not telling yours.

Your greatest tool of influence is your ears.

People light up when they tell their story.

We’re adrift without facts. We’re barren without stories.

This post shows you how to invite people to tell their story.

How Navigating Stressful Situations Can Make You a Hardier Leader 

Don’t miss it. We’re giving away a wonderful book on Leadership Freak today.

Some people become more engaged, more challenged, and more in control during difficult times. Why?

Dr. Steven Stein helps people become hardier. It’s a practice you can learn.

Did I mention we’re giving his book away, today?