The Top Ten Lies Leaders Believe

The truth is we tell ourselves lies. Lies seem to make life better, they make us feel more useful and in control. I can always tell when I touch the lies people believe… Continue reading

15 Potent Strategies for Fighting Confusion

Confusion is common; clarity rare. Confusion rules until leaders courageously intervene. Successful leaders always fight confusion and find clarity. Secret weapon: Clarity is leadership’s secret and most powerful weapon. Clarity allows followers to know where… Continue reading

The Single Greatest Gift Successful Leaders Give

Image source I’ve seen frustrated leaders say things like, “That’s the way it’s going to be.” It’s their end game when confused or resistant people push them. It works with two year olds who… Continue reading

The Top 25 Temptations of Leadership

Using position to intimidate or manipulate. Believing talent, experience, or skills compensate for preparation. Choosing the easy way for you rather than the best way for them. Overlooking the destructive behaviors of high… Continue reading

Embracing the Joys of Fear and Pain

Fear and pain motivate you to stop, run, avoid, or stubbornly dig in. They don’t move you forward, they move you away. Fear and pain may, however, ignite passion to change. Politicians create… Continue reading

Stop Wasting Your Time Solving Problems

Many leaders and managers have a compelling; even perverse interest in fixing things. Average managers solve problems and get results. Great managers build people. A recent conversation with a new manager reminded me that… Continue reading