Let’s assume you have a couple of work priorities involving teams or groups of people. If you are struggling and cannot move forward on your priorities let’s look closely at them and apply some best practices on managing change. One place to start is to look at the John Kotter Change Model and other … [Read more...]
The power of defining what you want
Managers Problem Solve Many managers state that their conversations at work are all about problem solving. Topics range from issues with the boss, to a conflict with a peer or direct report, to a misunderstanding with a coworker. Are you the manager who tells your people to come with solutions not … [Read more...]
Get out and walk
Inhale, walk through the forest, and enjoy nature. While we used to think it was relaxing or meditative, now research supports additional health benefits of breathing in what the trees are putting out into the atmosphere. Not only will it enhance your mood, but it is proven to lower blood pressure. When … [Read more...]
Refreshing approach to the grind of problem solving
How is design thinking different from traditional problem solving? It is a popular approach and many are using it to come up with new, more strategic ways to approach complex situations. I have taken some design thinking concepts and applied it to problem solving. Give these a try and let me know what … [Read more...]
Problem Talk is Quicksand
I am drawn to stories of survival; and the other day when I saw a video of how to survive falling through ice, it intrigued me to keep learning. It reminded me of another video of Bear Grylls getting out of quicksand. Both mentioned letting your legs float up behind you and becoming horizontal to spread … [Read more...]
Navigating the powerful person
Sometimes powerful people surround themselves with others who won't challenge them. If you are a direct report of that powerful person, you may be frustrated that you cannot suggest new ideas, or challenge that person in any way. Sometimes people agree with the boss even when it is not a good idea … [Read more...]
Ass/u/me
Makes an ass out of you and me. I heard this a long time ago and it stuck. Lately I have been barraged with assumptions coming from friends, clients, in the news- everywhere. In one day I experienced at least five assumptions, 100% which were wrong: Call from a neighbor- I assumed the worst and it … [Read more...]
The Importance of Focus
A Story of Focus “Hold that plank for one minute,” my trainer said. “No problem,” I thought, because I have two hands and two feet on the ground. But then she told me to alternate bringing my knee to my chest, one at a time. I tried it once and I thought I was going to topple over, but then … [Read more...]
Inclusion and The Four Dimensions of Leadership
Ever feel excluded from a key meeting or social gathering? Feels pretty bad doesn’t it? It may bring back memories of what it felt like to be picked last on the playground team, or be excluded from the party. Nothing feels good about it. You may rationalize and tell yourself you had other things to … [Read more...]
The Power of Being Precise
Sometimes accuracy is a requirement, not an option. I was reminded about the importance of precision in business after reading a recent article in the New York Times. It was about the value of accuracy in emotions. Surprised? The connection between career success and the ability to identify our … [Read more...]
