Category Archive: Encouragement

With Regards to the Women and Men who Fight On

Ease is evil. Fight on: Trying hard and falling short feels like a punch to the gut. But what’s the alternative. Half-hearted effort? Playing it safe? Ease? Half-hearted effort insults your team and… Continue reading

Dear Dan: Can You Say More About the Ungrateful List

Dear Dan, Can you say more about the “I’m ungrateful list” – what might be on it and how to use it? I want to know more! Irene (I used the term “Ungrateful… Continue reading

Portrait of a Squeaky Wheel

Squeaky wheels suck the life out of leaders, teams, and organizations while they claim the high ground for themselves. Squeaky wheels have aspiration for others and exemption for themselves. Portrait of a squeaky… Continue reading

The Nickname Project

Nurse Alice Tittle said Claudia Alta Taylor was, “… as pretty as a lady bird.” At two years old, Claudia became, “Lady Bird.” (NYT) Claudia became the First Lady of the United States… Continue reading

How to Send Signals that Enable Connection

Imagine you just met Wilma at a party. You’re shaking hands when she says, “I’m Wilma. I’m the CEO of Widgets Across America.” Choose to build trust rather than create distance.   Connect… Continue reading

The 10 Vulnerabilities of Discouragement

Turning an ember into a flame takes skills. But any fool can throw water on enthusiasm. Show up to fuel energy and build morale. Everyone gets discouraged. That’s why successful leaders make it… Continue reading