Set the Tone
How Conflict Builds Trust
One of my closest friends, Kris, is a contractor. Years ago, he needed some quick help on a commercial remodel….
Why Conflict is Good
Conflict. It’s good. It’s an opportunity. It’s a pivot point from which new understanding can emerge and new strengths are…
Making Strategic Planning Work
Here’s a dirty little secret: Strategic planning doesn’t work – at least most of the time. For most organizations and…
Leadership Health
Years ago, when I was a new executive director, I met with two other senior leaders. I was dealing with…
Building Teamwork When People Don’t Get Along
Consider Ken. It’s Monday morning. As Ken struggles to wake up, he feels a familiar sense of dread. The Monday…
Earning Influence
Years ago, I worked with an organization that played a major role in the reconstruction effort in Kosovo. In my…
Five Unconventional Characteristics of Effective Leaders
“Successful leadership is not about being tough or soft, sensitive or assertive, but about a set of attributes. First and…
Are You Killing Vision?
Three stonemasons in the Middle Ages were hard at work when a visitor came along and asked them what they…
Investing in Clarity Prevents Conflict
I love road trips. On our honeymoon, my wife and I embarked on a ‘round the island’ tour of Maui….