I once worked with a leader who seemed to prioritize his success above the team's success. He was happy as long as he was looking good. However, he would grow angry if it seemed he would look bad. Leaders who prioritize their success first are going to cause problems...

One of the biggest problems in business is the word “yes.” Yes, we’ll take on that additional work, even though everyone is already working overtime. Yes, we’ll take on that work, despite it distracting us from our product strategy. Yes, you can squeeze the team into...

Imagine, for a moment, that you don’t have any problems. Problems generate anxiety, which leads to unproductive mindsets. What if you look at every problem as an opportunity to change? It’s easier to look at opportunities and to see the truth in them. When you see the...

Why does your team follow you? Is it because of your title or position? Is it because of how you've responded to problems in the past? Or is it because they believe what you believe? If people are following you for any reason other than what they believe, you run the...

In 1968, Dr. Spencer Silver was trying to invent a super-strong adhesive. Dr. Silver accidentally invented a low-tack re-stickable glue, which is what you find on the back of post-it notes. Arguably, Dr. Silver failed, given his original objective. However, he did not...

I worked with a new leader who was struggling with her team’s initiative. She would tell me how the team was lazy and unmotivated. The previous leader had set up a rigid process due to a past problem. The team was to ask permission for almost anything, beyond their...

Do you have moments where you're ready to give up on something? Where you just want to walk away and go do something 'easier'. I've had these moments, and it sucks when it happens. When I find myself going there, I know it's time to remind myself about what's...

The problem with words is how each of us can interpret them differently. The problem is the unintended impact the misunderstandings have. To catch a misunderstanding sooner, establish a feedback loop. Find a way for you to be able to see the impact your words are...

It can be challenging to receive criticism. You did your best, and yet apparently, it wasn't good enough. You might find yourself getting a little defensive, or even angry about hearing a criticism. Unless you plan to sit still, criticism is a normal part of life....

The world is pretty screwed up at the moment with climate change, struggling economies, the threat of war and more. It's easy to become discouraged by all of it. After all, how can one person make a difference, right? Truthfully, you can make a difference in someone's...