Category Archive: Listening

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Image of a wide-eyed kitten.

If Words Had Calories – Suggestions for Bloviators

Words are like ice cream. A little ice cream tastes good, but a lot of ice cream isn’t better. If words had calories, what size would you be? Would you be healthy, anemic,… Continue reading →

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Image of people frolicking.

4 Ways Managers Screwup One-On-Ones

A simple thing that’s made complex disappoints and drains. 4 ways to screwup one-on-ones: #1. Leave them to the last minute. People feel valued when you prioritize time with them. Rushing around at… Continue reading →

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Image of an aspirin bottle spilled out.

5 Things to Do When Pedaling Faster Doesn’t Work

We have a bizarre capacity to pedal faster when something isn’t working. We think if we try harder the problem will magically disappear. Trying harder works for people who aren’t really trying. More… Continue reading →

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Situational Awareness: How to Stop Hitting People with Bats

I woke up remembering that I hit a girl with a baseball bat. I was taking practice swings during recess, and I struck her on the left side of her head. I think… Continue reading →

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Elderly lady looking out a window. If you want people to be glad to see you, be glad to see them with a big smile. Quote "If you want people to be glad to see you, be glad to see them."

5 Reasons People Wish Lousy Leaders Would Stay Away

I’m a huge fan of leadership walk-abouts. But if you’re a lousy leader, just stay in your office and keep doing the “important” work you think you’re doing. 5 reasons people wish lousy… Continue reading →

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People love to see leaders who love people. Image of a duck looking at the screen.

How to be the Leader People Love to See

Spending time with their manager is the worst part of the day for employees. What makes managers so un-delightful? Managers are unintentionally malevolent when they have an agenda that has nothing to do… Continue reading →