Category Archive: Encouragement

The Effort Illusion: Hard Work is the Answer

Repetition isn’t the answer when you aren’t getting where you want to go. But sometimes progress is the opportunity to sing again. Hard work isn’t the answer: #1. Hard work isn’t the answer… Continue reading →

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 →