Category Archive: Managing

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I can't let go of control, but I'm no freak about it. Image of a chameleon hanging on to a crown tip.

Let go – 4 Remedies for Exhausted Control Freaks

My wife thinks I’m a control freak. I reject this spectacular exaggeration. It’s true I can’t let go of control, but I’m no freak about it. Just before she took off on errands… Continue reading →

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Protect good managers by teaching them to stay open when things go well. Image of a cocky person.

3 Ways to Protect Good Managers from Becoming Jerk-holes

Lousy managers think jerk-holery is an asset. Well-intentioned managers can slip into obnoxious behaviors because some jerk-holes are great at delivering results. 3 ways to protect good managers from becoming jerk-holes #1. Protect… Continue reading →

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Make leadership matter. Life is too precious to squander it on things that matter to you. Image of a drain.

6 Ways to Make Leadership Meaningful

Dedicated leaders tend to lose themselves to work. They end up frustrated, drained, and burned out. Take the helm of your leadership journey. Don’t let others drive your life. Life is too precious… Continue reading →

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Stay interviews explore what motivates people to stay. Image of a flower with only one petal.

Stay Interviews: 5 Simple Steps with Questions

Exit interviews investigate why people leave. Stay interviews explore what motivates people to stay. Stay interviews*: Deliver information that can be used today. Give practical insights for engaging and retaining top performers. Provide… Continue reading →

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Coddling promotes poor performance. Image of bubble wrap.

5 Surprising Reasons for Poor Performance You Can Solve Quickly

Poor performance is exhausting and frustrating. A manager who brings out the best in others multiplies talent and maximizes resources. Poor performance degrades, de-energizes, and devalues. 5 surprising reasons for poor performance: #1.… Continue reading →

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Success requires initiative. Image of two dogs playing with a frisbee.

Initiative: 4 Ways to Act without Permission

New ideas always encounter resistance. Success requires initiative. Leaders act without permission. There’s too much permission-asking in organizations. You’ve been asking permission all your life. It began when you were a kid. How… Continue reading →