Thanks to so many of you who commented on last week’s blog, offering feedback on the “Clear the Air” series and expressing interest in future topics. A good number asked me to write about “thoughts on leading as American citizens in this unsettling time.” With the primary tomorrow, that feels timely. I believe the major … Continued
Recap of the last two weeks: This series is about how to clear the air with an important work or home partner. Part One spoke to the importance of standing up for yourself when a partner has hurt the relationship, but also recognizing that it is your problem and opportunity-responsibility to raise the issue…until you … Continued
Last week I wrote about the need each of us has from time to time to clear the air, to get something off our chest that is creating stress for us, and likely diminishing trust, enthusiasm and collaboration for work with a key colleague – or friend or family member. In that first blog, I … Continued
I approach this column as perhaps the “most” I have written in 20 years. It’s most important. Most controversial. Most already-written about. And most tricky. I am writing about Mr. Kavanaugh and Ms. Blasey Ford. What’s tricky? Well, first what lens will I use, and will you agree to see through it? The fact is … Continued
Soul Searching: Do You Lead – Are You a Leader? I’d like to explore the distinction, as a way of getting you to think about your fundamental attitudes at work, in community, and at home. I am 99% sure that everyone who reads this blog leads, and I wonder if it would help if they-you … Continued
I saw Spiderman: Homecoming this weekend. I like the guy. But at one point hubris got him. Doesn’t it always? Next thing you know, his recklessness results in a Staten Island Ferry splitting in two. Thank God for the (pompous) Iron Man who comes along with much more than webs, and bridges the two parts … Continued
For almost 20 years I’ve been writing this blog. When I wrote my first book I came to see “everyday leadership” as the simplest banner for my point of view. I have always sought to distinguish authority figures from leaders. You don’t have to have a title to lead. I’ll never stop making these three … Continued
I last wrote about President Trump in light of the work of Kouzes & Posner. I was searching for what seems to guide the “way” that he models, the values that he talks and walks. And I wrote about what WE can learn from what he is or isn’t doing. I’ll try to be more … Continued
Paired Leadership — 3rd in a series — This series is written for people who can imagine that creating a PARTNERSHIP with a key report (or child or student) might generate much better results and much more satisfying relationships than “managing down.” What I call “Paired leadership” or partnership is mysterious, but when we take … Continued
“Doesn’t being so positive with people end up meaning that you’re denying reality?” I was asked this at a Women’s Executive Leadership program at the Haas Business School at Berkeley last week. She was responding to my challenge: great relationships tilt heavily positive, so if you want to lead well, get positive! I was … Continued