I was recently conducting a series of leadership development sessions for people in the non-management ranks of one of our client companies. So that everyone would have a common experience, each session included similar content and exercises. During a hands- on learning activity, one of the participants offered some directive suggestions that allowed those in [Read More]
A Kid’s View of Politics
January 27, 2012 By Leave a Comment
On a light-hearted note – when about to leave a local YMCA recently, I overhead a couple of ten-year old boys talking. They went from topics of swimming, football, school and others in the flash of an eye. Then out of nowhere one of them said, “It’s not fair that only adults get to vote. [Read More]
A New Year’s Wish
December 29, 2011 By Leave a Comment
I was giving some thought to what I wanted to occur during 2012 and one item jumped into mind. My hope is during this election year, people will not completely toss out thinking for emotions. I am amazed at people who appear madly in love with their candidate for inexplicable reasons. Campaign stops and conventions [Read More]
Time to Reflect
December 16, 2011 By Leave a Comment
As 2011 rolls down, it is a good time for a little self reflection about your growth and progress during the year. So take a moment and ponder these questions. Believe it or not, looking back will assist you in the ability to look forward. With the beginning of a new year right around the [Read More]
The Start of Something Great
December 4, 2011 By Leave a Comment
I recently had the opportunity to serve as a judge for some new business start-up ideas, developed by students in the Entrepreneur program at Miami (of Ohio) University. It was very enlightening and great fun, although the students would perhaps disagree with the fun part! There were a range of concepts, some technology-based, some more [Read More]
The Power of Imagination
November 23, 2011 By Leave a Comment
We all know that when visions are discussed, there is often a reference to the word imagination. You have probably heard the adage, “you have to imagine the future before you can create it.” If you are an aspiring leader and need some exposure to some great imagination, I have a recommendation for you. I [Read More]
Integrity is Alive
November 9, 2011 By Leave a Comment
I was recently working in a national security facility and witnessed a terrific example of integrity. I was escorted into a highly restricted area by a couple of staff members. As I was almost through the card and password controlled gate, one of my escorts remembered to verify if I had a cell phone on [Read More]
The Exaggeration of Conflict
October 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Occasionally I work with teams where there is a personal conflict among two or more of the members. There are a number of reasons for the conflict, more often differences of opinions than outright animosity toward each other. But the all too common result is that one or both seem to be more intent on [Read More]
Be Careful of Catchy Slogans
September 29, 2011 By Leave a Comment
For some reason, I like to examine statements for their potential mixed messages. Corporate slogans or platitudes are examples which often get my attention. Two of my favorites are “the customer is always right” and “our associates are our most important asset.” They both sound positive and affirming, but unfortunately they are a bit deceptive [Read More]
A Great Leadership Principle
September 12, 2011 By 8 Comments
During our residential version of The Leadership Challenge® Workshop, we utilize a high ropes challenge course, to help cement the lessons around experimenting and taking risks, coaching and encouraging, challenging preconceived beliefs, and other important leadership behaviors. Recently a young man attended, who openly admitted having a severe fear of heights. Yet, he still participated, [Read More]
