Category Archive: Influence

10 Ways to Navigate Turbulence

Catastrophe is one decision away during turbulence. Reacting makes you look like a fool, eventually. Wise leaders respond to turbulence; fools react. Reactions are passionate but uninformed. How many times have decisions outrun… Continue reading

The Five Powers of Leadership Rituals

Innovative leaders wrongly resist patterns. They fear repetition constricts and bores. “Don’t fence me in.” However, rituals set leaders free. Think of rituals as tiny behaviors that yield disproportionate benefits. One of mine… Continue reading

Bullies aren’t Strong and Compassion isn’t Weak

Great results require toughness. The belief that compassion is soft and toughness gets results explains why so little compassion exists in organizations. I’m an either/or type person, it’s my nature. I wrongly believe combining… Continue reading

10 Ways to Spot Authentic Leaders

Authenticity, like trust, feedback, and empowerment are words tossed around in leadership circles like nuts at a squirrel buffet. But, talk isn’t always cheap. Words change lives and organizations. However, talk is nearly… Continue reading

How Leaders Frustrate Others

Last week, I frustrated someone, again. I thought I learned my lesson but old habits die hard. There’s always room for improvement, from my point of view. Nothing’s ever done. I’m tempted to… Continue reading

Making Dreams Matter

Dreams smolder and die unless others own them. Passion isn’t meaningful until it ignites others. Igniting passion isn’t pumping up. Pumping up: Is fun at events but manipulative as long-term strategy. Places unnecessary burden on leaders and… Continue reading