Why Precious Leaders Fail

Gollum, in The Hobbit, referred to himself as “My Precious.” Preciousness turns leaders into self-consumed beasts. The only one: Direct reports don’t understand the pressures squeezing you. The board doesn’t appreciate tensions between… Continue reading

The Seven Decisions of Decisive Leaders

Decisiveness is a strength and weakness. I often hear complaints about bosses who can’t make decisions. Then there’s the leader who makes all the decisions. In both cases the results are the same.… Continue reading

How to be an Assertive Woman in Leadership

Image source She said, “Violating gender stereotypes,” in response to, “What unique challenges do women in leadership experience.” I asked the question at the beginning of a presentation for a Woman’s Business Consortium.… Continue reading

When Fair is Mediocre

Treating everyone the same when they aren’t the same isn’t fair it’s mediocrity. It’s not fair – it’s dumb – to treat a thirty year old the same as a three year old.… Continue reading

How to Rise Above Butterfly Conversations

I hate wasting time in conversations that bounce around and never arrive. Talk – for the sake of talk – is for Saturday morning coffee with friends. But, successful leaders itch for next steps… Continue reading

In a Pinch

Mrs. Principe (Pronounced Prince-i-pea) had a way of looking perturbed that made nearly everyone smile. She had manicured fingernails, perfect hair, and seemed a bit out of touch – ditsy. Perhaps the difference… Continue reading