It Doesn’t Matter What You Do if You Get This Wrong

Doing the right thing doesn’t erase saying something stupid. “Watch your thoughts. They become words. Watch your words. They become deeds…” Frank Outlaw, late president of Bi-Lo Words are hinges between thought and… Continue reading

The 4 Unbreakable Rules of Giving Advice that People Actually Respect

Most advice-givers should be avoided. You’re good at telling people what you think. But you’re confused if you think giving advice is the same as telling people what you think. Skillful advice-givers accelerate… Continue reading

Three Ways to Fuel Energy and Stamina Today

Peter Drucker said, “So much of what we call management consists in making it difficult for people to work.” I hope that’s not you. Successful managers and leaders don’t drain energy and stamina.… Continue reading

3 Leadership Lessons from Reality TV

I know reality TV is more about TV than reality, but sometimes I cry when I watch American Idol. It’s a show where undiscovered singers audition in front of celebrities from the music… Continue reading

Contentment: How to Practice Optimistic Discontent

Wrong-headed leaders fear happiness. For them discontentment is a virtue. Dissatisfaction – by itself – creates misery. “The World is Not Enough,” the James Bond spy thriller, expresses the sentiment of discontent leaders.… Continue reading

How Fools and Novices Gain Wisdom

Teams crash when fools lead. Wisdom is: Useful, not theoretical. Connected, not isolated. Self-distancing, not self-absorbed. Wisdom is perspective-taking. Wisdom is gained by practicing wisdom. 2 ways fools and novices gain wisdom: #1.… Continue reading