Category Archive: Challenge

How to Run Toward the Battle

I’ve talked with many leaders who were confused, angry, and ready to quit. Sometimes I say, “Well, isn’t this exciting.” My smile confuses them. Some disagree. Others think I don’t get it.

Leaders run toward the battle, not away.

Perceived capacity governs response.

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.

The 10 Simplest Ways to Turn Challenges into Opportunities

Even optimists know sunny skies grow dark quickly.

Plans derail. Teams implode. Results disappoint. Talent moves on. Mistakes escalate. Crisis erupts. Skillful leaders turn challenges into opportunities.

Here are the 10 simplest ways to turn challenges into opportunities that I can think of this morning.

3 Signs You’re Offering Destructive Support

Leaders are learning about emotional well-being at work. Support is an essential aspect of leading today.

There is a danger, however. Some support is destructive. Today, I’m offering you an opportunity to reflect on your support efforts.

The goal of support is enabling. It’s helpful to spot the signs of destructive support.

Read more:

4 Simple Questions to Clarify Complex Challenges

When facing complex challenges reflect on urgency, necessity, and perfectionism. Here’s how. #1. How important is finding a solution now? Make progress by leaving the most complex challenges until later. Do the simplest… Continue reading

5 Ways to Exploit the Circle of Life

The playfulness of life is seen in a boy feeding hay to cows. The circle of life was petulant on the farm. Every spring the fields turned green. In summer we made hay.… Continue reading