Author Archive

How to Survive and Thrive in Imperfect Organizations

You’re surrounded by imperfection. Everyone has a handful of strengths and a bucketful of weaknesses. If strengths smelled like warm cookies and weaknesses smelled like wet dog, everyone would stink. Overcome frustration with… Continue reading →

The Ultimate Pursuit of Leadership isn’t Success

The ultimate pursuit of leadership is humility, not success. The more I think about humility, the less I know about it. The more I pursue humility, the more it escapes my grasp. Everything… Continue reading →

The Secret to Bringing Out the Best in Others

Support too little and challenge too much – you kick butt. People are stressed and discouraged. Challenge too little and support too much – you coddle. People are comfortable and sleepy. The secret… Continue reading →

Why Some Leaders Stick and Other Leaders Quit

Grit isn’t the reason people endure. Grit is disappointing because it develops as-you-go, not before you go. Context: Grit is irrelevant when you already feel strong, capable, and confident. Difficulty, distress, weakness, and… Continue reading →

The Right Way to Make a Taco

Tacos are made with crunchy shells. Soft shells are acceptable only when crunchy shells are unavailable. The only acceptable taco shell is Old El Paso’s “Stand N Stuff” flat bottom taco shell. Cheese… Continue reading →

The True Value of Persistent Problems and Nagging Distress

Problems are spiny gifts wrapped in sandpaper. It’s foolish to wish for problem-free leadership. The four benefits of persistent problems: #1. The prospect of becoming your best self. “Leadership is a matter of… Continue reading →