Category Archive: Encouragement

When “But” Makes you a Sphincter-Leader

Sphincter-leaders unwittingly throw cold water on enthusiasm. A happy employee catches you in the hall. “Project ‘A’ is going well,” they report. It’s obvious they feel good. You’re a sphincter-leader when you say,… Continue reading

12 Ways Young Leaders Earn Admiration from Elders

You can’t succeed if people don’t admire something about you. The more admiration you earn, the further you’ll go. Opportunity and admiration go hand in hand. Don’t set out to be admired. Set out to make… Continue reading

32 Things to say to Young Leaders

Why aren’t you asking for feedback? Tell me who you want to become in behavioral terms. Why do you matter? Tell me what you expect from yourself. Pursue clarity by asking more questions. Don’t let… Continue reading

How to Stop De-energizing the team

It takes a miracle to re-ignite a fire once you’ve hosed it down. Skillful leaders use words to energize and release. Foolish leaders rein in and control. Everyone has a fire inside. Leadership’s role is throwing… Continue reading

How to Influence Like Peter Drucker

Extend your influence by following the example of Peter Drucker. Drucker’s 9 channels of influence: “Define the landscape.” “Expose ‘white space’ – define opportunities – what is needed now.” “Clarify strengths and capacities.” “Identify… Continue reading

10 Ways to Maximize Bad Experiences

A young leader writes, “How do you recover from bad experiences with leadership in a previous job, and from having trust in leadership demolished as a result?” The value of trust is seen… Continue reading