We often assume people feel valued because of the big things…. The promotions, the bonuses, the public recognition, the big wins. Those moments matter, of course. But in my conversations with the most inspiring leaders, one truth shows up again and again: Meaning lives in the small moments. It’s not always the grand gestures that shape someone’s experience at work. […]
The Small Moments That Make People Feel They Matter Read More »
“Never give up” is catchy advice. But on its own, it can push us toward blind perseverance instead of healthy, intentional growth. Wise persistence is something different. It’s the strength to stay committed to what matters and the discernment to stop or change course when continuing would do more harm than good. It’s not about grinding endlessly; it’s about staying engaged with your
Beyond “Never Give Up”: Practicing Wise Persistence Read More »
You finally decide to have the conversation you’ve been putting off. You sit down with the employee. You start strong. And then… it derails. Maybe they get defensive. Maybe you get frustrated. Maybe the message gets lost. Maybe you walk away thinking, “Well, that didn’t help.” If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Why These Conversations Go Sideways Most difficult conversations fail for one of three
When Difficult Conversations Go Wrong (and How to Recover) Read More »
Every once in a while, someone says something to us that lands deeper than they probably realize. Maybe it’s a simple acknowledgment. Maybe it’s a story about how something we did helped them navigate a challenge. Maybe it’s just a quiet “Hey… that mattered.” Lately, I’ve been on the receiving end of a few of
Tell Someone They Made a Difference Read More »
Most leaders have an “advice monster.” That instinct to jump in, fix, direct, or diagnose the moment we see a problem. I know mine well. In a recent conversation with Steve Swan, I talked about how quickly I can slip into advice‑giving mode. I’ll walk into a room, observe a group of leaders, and within minutes see where they could grow
Taming the Advice Monster: Why Great Leaders Listen Before They Lead Read More »
