The Latest from Janice
How do you bring your “why” to life? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Where would Gratitude serve you?
Peace through Gratitude I have searched for peace for decades. Peace is the foundation for all the best things I accomplish. Just the other day, we had all of our kids over for a meal. Our millennials now think that they need to bring their dogs with them everywhere they…
Introducing the 3 parts to knowing to knowing your “why”. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
If you only read one Wednesday Wish, this is it.
My Wednesday Wish for You This Wednesday, I wish for you the courage to find common ground. In a world where headlines shout division and social media amplifies every disagreement, it's easy to fall into the trap of "us versus them." Polls show alarming divides: many of us view those…
Our divisive world needs people to find common ground. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
You can be true to your values and respectful of those you disagree with.
My Wednesday Wish for You: Civility Without Compromise In a world that feels increasingly divided, it can seem impossible t engage with someone who sees things differently without compromising our own integrity. It might feel easier to simply mirror their opinions to avoid conflict, or even mask our true beliefs…
Our skills in being civil are more important than ever. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Innovate with an Abundant Mindset
My Wednesday Wish for You: Innovate with an Abundant Mindset As we look forward to 2025, I wish you a year filled with fresh ideas and the courage to embrace new opportunities. Innovation often starts with small sparks, and the end of one year is the perfect time to ignite…
What new market can you serve in the new year? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
What is in the way of you reaching your 2024 goals?
My Wednesday Wish for You: Let Go of What Holds You Back As we near the year's end, have you stopped to consider what's been holding you back? Is it the fear of success? Or perhaps it’s a quiet voice telling you that you’re not worthy of the goals you've…
Are you ready to complete the goals you set for yourself for 2024? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Reflecting on our decisions
My Wednesday Wish for You This week, I invite you to reflect on the ethical decisions you’re making. Are they self-serving, or are they driven by a desire to serve others and the greater good? It’s easy to get caught up in what feels right for us individually, guided by…
Do you think of your community when you’re making decisions? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Civility without compromise. Can you bring respectful discourse while staying true to your values?
My Wednesday Wish for You: Civility Without Compromise In a world that feels increasingly divided, it can seem impossible to engage with someone who sees things differently without compromising our own integrity. It might feel easier to simply mirror their opinions to avoid conflict, or even mask our true beliefs…
It’s possible to be both authentic and respectful. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
How is your Character influencing your leadership?
Character as a foundation of Ethical Leadership My Wednesday Wish for you is that you take a moment to reflect on your own character and how it shapes your leadership. Character is often defined as “who we are when no one is watching,” but is it really that static? Or…
How do you define your character? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Are you intentional with these three B’s?
Today, I invite you to reflect on the "Three B's": Being, Belonging, and Basking”. These elements form a foundational trio that can significantly influence your sense of fulfillment and happiness. Being: How often do we pause to simply be right where we are? In a world that constantly pushes us…
Could a key to success lie in contentment? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Is perfectionism derailing you?
Perfectionism In our final post of this enlightening series on the characteristics of successful women leaders, shared by Jeff Klawsky, PhD, we shift our focus from accelerators to a common derailer: Perfectionism. Dr. Klawsky has observed that while striving for excellence is commendable, an overemphasis on perfection can significantly hinder…
Are you avoiding a major pitfall of leadership? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Are you advocating for yourself and your fellow women?
Advocacy In this installment of our series on the qualities of successful women leaders, generously shared by Jeff Klawsky, PhD, a Business Psychologist with over 30 years of experience, we explore a crucial aspect of leadership: Advocacy. Dr. Klawsky highlights that effective women leaders are not only skilled managers and…
Do you understand the needs of those around you at work? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Are you building your resilience muscle?
Continuing our enlightening series on the characteristics of successful women leaders, with insights from Jeff Klawsky, PhD, a seasoned Business Psychologist, this week we delve into a pivotal trait: Resilience. Dr. Klawsky has observed that the most effective women leaders excel not only because of their skill and intelligence but…
Do you have the resilience for the difficulties of business and life? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Do you have what it takes to be a good mentor or mentee?
In this week’s continuation of our series on the characteristics of successful women leaders, shared by Jeff Klawsky, PhD, a Business Psychologist with over 30 years of experience, we explore the pivotal role of: Mentoring. This aspect of leadership not only enhances the mentor’s influence but also amplifies their legacy…
Mentoring others can help you be more successful. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Are you intentional with your network?
Continuing our insightful series on the qualities of successful women leaders, generously shared by Jeff Klawsky, PhD, a seasoned Business Psychologist with more three decades of experience, we delve into another crucial trait this week: Effective Networking. Last week, we discussed the importance of self-confidence. This time, we turn our…
How strong is your network? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Jeff Klawsky, PhD, shares insights about powerful women leaders
Over the next six weeks, we're embarking on an exploration of the qualities that define successful women leaders, drawing on the insights and research shared with us by Jeff Klawsky, PhD, a Business Psychologist with more than 30 years of experience. Each week, we'll delve into a different quality that…
Tips gleaned from successful women leaders. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
What challenge can you turn into a gift?
My Wednesday Wish: Embrace Challenge Today, I wish for you the perspective to see challenges and conflicts not as burdens, but as invaluable gifts—opportunities to strengthen and stretch ourselves, preparing us for future trials and triumphs. Life's toughest moments often hold the most profound lessons, shaping us into resilient, adaptable…
Are you learning from all the challenges you have faced? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
How can you shift to abundance thinking?
My Wednesday Wish for you, Today, I wish for you the clarity and courage to approach life from a place of abundance rather than scarcity. In a world often driven by competition, it’s transformative to realize that the pie is indeed expansive, and often, sharing a slice can lead to…
Abundance is a better perspective than scarcity. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
What challenge can you turn into an opportunity?
My Wednesday Wish for you; A Mindshift, Today, I wish for you the transformative power of shifting your mindset. The individuals we admire and aspire to emulate do not lead lives devoid of challenges or obstacles. Instead, they distinguish themselves by viewing these hurdles as opportunities for growth and innovation.…
How could a shift serve you? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Where can you find learning opportunities?
My Wednesday Wish for you, Today, I wish for you the joy of stretching and growing beyond the classroom. Education is a lifelong journey that transcends the walls of schools and universities. Every corner of our world, every unfamiliar experience, and every unique individual we meet holds a lesson that…
Stretch your perspective; grow yourself. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
How far have you come?
My Wednesday Wish for you, Today, I wish for you a moment of deep appreciation for all that you have and all that you have achieved. As goal-oriented individuals, we often fix our gaze so firmly on the horizon that we overlook the ground we've already covered. This constant striving…
Do you consider all you have already accomplished? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
What if you questioned everything?
My Wednesday Wish for you, Today, I wish for you the courage to question everything you hold to be true. In the quiet corners of our beliefs and daily practices lie assumptions that often go unchallenged, shaping our lives more than we realize. What if the barriers we perceive are…
Are you ready to question your assumptions? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
What other voice could serve you?
My Wednesday Wish for you: Round out Your Team Today, I wish you the insight to assess who might be missing from your team. In the journey towards success, it's crucial to surround yourself with a diverse array of thinkers, each bringing their unique perspectives and strengths. If everyone around…
Are you including the people who can bring success to your project? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Building bridges
My Wednesday Wish for you, Today, I wish for you the skill and patience to build bridges of. understanding, especially between those who are future-oriented and those who live firmly in the present. Bridging this gap is crucial in teams, relationships, and leadership, ensuring that everyone moves forward together, regardless…
Who do you leave behind with your vision? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Your nemesis may be your best ally. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
My Wednesday Wish for you
Today, I wish for you the transformative power of routines and habits. When we establish consistent patterns in our daily lives, we free up mental space, allowing us to channel our energies into creativity and problem-solving. Think of routines as the framework upon which creativity can flourish. By automating the…
What regular decisions could you turn into routines? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Practice these two gifts of presence this week.
My Wednesday Wish for you, Today, I wish for you the gifts of presence—being truly present with others and with yourself. In our daily routines, it’s easy to overlook these simple acts of mindfulness, but they hold the power to transform our interactions and personal well-being. Being Present with Others:…
What kind of present is your presence? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
How can disruption serve you?
My Wednesday Wish: Disruption Today, I wish for you the thrill of disruption—the kind that comes from breaking away from your routine and diving into something entirely new. Imagine the possibilities that lie in activities you’ve never tried, places you’ve never visited, or skills you’ve never learned. This week, I…
Are you stuck in a rut? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Did you do your best today?
Wednesday Wish Living up to our full potential, even when we don’t feel like it Today, resolve to keep moving forward, even when every fiber of your being screams to pull back. Remember, living up to your full potential isn’t always about peak performance; sometimes, it's about maintaining momentum with…
Are you living up to your full potential? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Your circle is significant. Who is in your circle?
There is a profound saying: "You are the sum of the five people you spend the most time with." This idea isn’t just about social circles; it’s about influence and the personal ecosystems we cultivate around ourselves. Take a moment to consider the people closest to you. Who are they?…
Who are you surrounded with? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
My Wednesday Wish for you- Success
Success is made up of 4 C’s--Commitment, Competency, Consistency, and Celebration. Each of these elements is crucial in your journey towards achieving your goals and realizing your dreams. Commitment is your starting point. To reach any level of success, you must first commit to your goal. This means deciding that…
Do you have all four of the C’s that lead to success? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Professor Scott Galloway shares his thoughts on what we should worry about. Do you agree?
For years, we’ve been making predictions. The objective isn’t only to be right more than we’re wrong, but to catalyze a productive dialog that might shape better outcomes. If you get most/all your predictions right, you’re not predicting … you’re stating the obvious. Also, predicting societal ills, or worse, can highlight…
My Wednesday Wish for you – Positive Transformation
Transformation—a concept far deeper and more impactful than mere change. Transformation isn't just about gathering new information; it’s about actively engaging with that knowledge to reshape your world. Think about a caterpillar's journey to become a butterfly. It doesn't just grow bigger; it completely alters its form to soar. Similarly,…
Transformation is more than learning. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
In this Inc article, seven leaders give their best advice for women to thrive.
Introducing Inc.'s inaugural Female Founders advisory panel: For the first time ever, we tapped our network of impressive women entrepreneurs to share their advice for this year's honorees. These celebrated founders know all too well the challenges business owners need to overcome to grow flourishing companies--and the role persistence plays in success. These…
In our continuing conversation about accountability, this Inc article shares great insights from Caitlin Clark regarding achieving big goals.
I'm going to be honest from the start here: I have basically no interest in basketball -- college or professional, men's or women's. But I do love a good neuroscience-backed success tip. Which is why I'm writing about Iowa star and first pick of the 2024 Women's National Basketball Association draft Caitlin Clark. You'll…
Embracing Accountability: A Personal Journey Towards Success
Accountability is a deeply personal commitment, a pact we make with ourselves to achieve our goals and aspirations. It's not about answering to someone else; it's about holding ourselves to our own standards and aspirations. When we are truly accountable to ourselves, it signifies a genuine desire to accomplish something…
What are you doing to be accountable? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
We often get notice that our data was breached at a business where we have had transactions. Mike Foster at Fosterinstitute.com shares practical steps to take to protect your financial interests. There are quite a few. Pick one to get started.
Protecting Your Financial Interests in the Wake of a Major Data Breach by Mike Foster | Apr/21/2024 In today’s digital age, the security of your personal information is more than a convenience – it’s a crucial aspect of your financial strategy. Recently, a significant breach at a major phone provider has put the…
Friend and colleague, Dr. Gustavo Grodnitsky shares insights into tomorrow’s workforce.
3 tenets leaders need to understand about the future of work As the world of work continues to evolve, the competition for top talent is becoming increasingly fierce. To attract and retain the best employees, employers need to make their companies more compelling. How? Consider the following tenets about the…
Navigating Growth: Beyond The Revenue.
In the dynamic landscape of business, growth transcends mere revenue figures. While top-line revenue is often the primary metric for assessing success , a broader understanding of growth encompasses various dimensions, ranging from financial considerations to personal development and infrastructure building. Beyond the allure of increased revenue lies the critical…
In what ways is your business growing?
Do you need some support to reach your goals this year?
Our friends at ITR Economics share the 3 things businesses need to watch the next 5 years.
It sure has been a tricky start to the decade. Starting with the COVID-19 pandemic, various challenges have revealed themselves over the past few years, and now some major industries are currently in a recession for 2024. Although ITR Economics is forecasting general economic growth over the next few years,…
This article from Inc Magazine shares CEO sentiment about investment in Generative AI. Are you keeping up?
Will generative AI destroy humanity or make everyone rich and happy? Business leaders ask a different question: Can generative AI deliver a return on investment? CEOs are spending money to find out the answer. Virtually all--97 percent of leaders according to a KPMG survey released March 22 of 220 business leaders in U.S. companies with at…
Using Community to guide our actions
When community threads itself through every fiber of our work, weaving together the fabric of our experiences and interactions, it’s a good thing. In addition to creating a space or adopting an attitude; it shapes our actions, perspectives, and aspirations. At its essence, community embodies the spirit of connection and…
This Smithsonian article shares how Ben Franklin invented the library and why. With so much accessible on the internet, how are you encouraging your staff to stay educated?
Founding father Benjamin Franklin knew better than most the benefits of self-education. In 1727, he established the Philadelphia-based discussion group known as the Junto, which sought “mutual improvement” through intellectual dialogue. Yet while Franklin enjoyed the Junto’s spirited—and secret—debates on matters moral and scientific, he became convinced that the group needed an…
Is the shiny object in the way of you reaching your goal?
This Inc. article shows how our addiction to dopamine may not be serving us. EXPERT OPINION BY JEFF HADEN, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR, INC. @JEFF_HADEN A friend hates keeping his books. (He hates filing corporate taxes even more, but that's another story.) Over the past three years, he's adopted and abandoned five different small-business accounting packages--not…
The Power of Values: Guiding Actions with Care
Values serve as compasses, guiding us in our actions and decisions, shaping our lives and relationships. Among these values, Care stands out as a beacon of significance, weaving its impact through every aspect of our existence. At its core, Care encompasses both self-preservation and altruism. It begins with nurturing oneself,…
Care is a value that shapes how we work. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Care of self and others strengthens you in being the best leader possible. https://youtu.be/UCuMYllg8us
You know it, but are you doing it?
By Dorothy Neufeld Time is an investor’s biggest ally, even if they start with just a modest portfolio. The reason behind this is compounding interest, of course, thanks to its ability to magnify returns as interest earns interest on itself. With a fortune of $159 billion, Warren Buffett largely…
Do you have what it takes to not be considered a rascal? This Inc article shares Warren Buffett’s take.
Warren Buffett is known not only for his prolific investment acumen but also for his wit and wisdom. Having covered Buffett over the years, I've seen how often he has given his followers solid advice on matters related to leadership, hiring, and even the importance of self-care. One helpful tip stood out…
Let Your Values Propel Your Actions: Embracing Courage in Every Step
Our values serve as our guiding stars, illuminating the path we tread. Among these virtues, courage stands tall, beckoning us to transcend our fears and embrace the unknown. All too often, we find ourselves paralyzed by apprehension, shackled by the imaginary chains of doubt. Consider for a moment the essence…
Does fear stop you from taking action?
Courage can allow you to weigh the pros and cons and make the best decision. https://youtu.be/5bw1yrvi-RU
This Fast Company article discusses straightforward communication combined with care. Do you have what it takes?
BY MICHEL KOOPMAN The sophisticated and often nuanced manner in which leaders communicate is pivotal in forging or fracturing relationships with employees, colleagues, and stakeholders. As a Dutch-American CEO and founder, I’ve painstakingly navigated the intricacies of direct and transparent communication, learning to intricately balance forthrightness with empathy. The Dutch are…
Inc. shares insights from Shark Tank. How do you handle disappointment?
"You really have to stand up for yourself." That's the message Shark Tank star Barbara Corcoran sent loud and clear in a recent interview she gave LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky. The interview is full of powerful lessons from Corcoran's life, but one story stood head and shoulders above the rest: The time Shark Tank "fired" her,…
Let Your Values Guide Your Actions: Embracing Curiosity
Letting our values determine what we do and what we don't do, can create a more authentic and fulfilling path. One such value that holds immense power is curiosity. Curiosity is not just about seeking new information but also about embracing diverse perspectives and being open to challenging our own…
Let your values drive your curiosity. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Are you willing to hear things that don't fit into your box? https://youtu.be/URKSIxCjqSc
This Farnham street article suggests a new KPI for our performance.
We tend to measure performance by what happens when things are going well. Yet how people, organizations, companies, leaders, and other things do on their best day isn’t all that instructive. To find the truth, we need to look at what happens on the worst day. “Anyone can steer the…
Successful CEOs do this well. What’s one thing you work on in your company?
A CEO’s daily to-do list is never just about today. Your attention is constantly shifting between “now” and “next,” between what your company needs to hit short-term targets and how hitting those targets is building momentum toward long-term goals. But until AI actually creates more hours in a day, it’s…
Building Capacity Through The Art of Developing Others
One of the most profound responsibilities is the development of others. It's a process that requires patience, commitment, and a keen understanding of individual needs. Whether through formal one-on-one sessions or informal check-ins, investing time is paramount. Formal sessions offer a structured platform to delve into specific development areas. These…
Don’t let your employees get stuck in the Pit of Despair.
There are clear steps to helping an employee out of the Pit of Despair. https://youtu.be/FnxQflh4FXk
We all have bad nights of sleep , NYT tells us how to recover.
By Dana G. Smith Most of us know that good sleep is a pillar of good health, on par with exercise and nutrition. And yet most of us have had a night (or many nights) when it all went sideways. Maybe you stayed out late and only got six hours, instead…
What do you want to do?
EXPERT OPINION BY JEFF HADEN, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR, INC.@JEFF_HADEN Where success is concerned, self-control clearly matters. A Perspectives in Psychological Science study shows self-control outdoes talent in predicting academic success. A 40-year study published in American Scientist determined self-control strongly predicts adult success, regardless of socioeconomic background or even intelligence. Can you develop greater self-discipline? Sure. But it's really, really hard. Self-discipline implies requires gratification--doing this, so…
Nurturing Growth: Developing Others in the Workplace
In any organization, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development is paramount to success. Just like learning to ride a bike, mastering new skills or tasks in the workplace follows a similar journey of awareness and proficiency. As leaders or colleagues, it's essential to recognize where individuals are in…
What do riding a bike and developing staff have in common?
It takes intentionality to develop staff. https://youtu.be/0L_h_0jc9I0
Schedule a financial health day and you may find it provides some mental health too.
Getting your personal finances in order can be daunting. Not many people want to confront how they are spending and saving their money, so they put it off and let problems compound. Wharton marketing professor Wendy De La Rosa has some simple advice to make the process less stressful: take a financial…
I have tools to help avoid these Communication traps described by Dave Ramsey.
Bad communication is a nightmare. Just ask the woman from Belgium who made news headlines years ago after driving 900 miles across Europe on what should’ve been a quick trek to the local train station—all because of a broken navigation system.1 Or the man in Alaska whose incredible story hit the…
The Art of Executing Your Strategy: Empowering Your Team with Purpose
Strategy is more than just a destination; it's the roadmap that guides every decision and action within an organization. It delineates not only what needs to be achieved but also how to achieve it. At its core, strategy is imbued with the values and principles that drive decision-making – the…
What you won’t do is as important as what you will do. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
The whole package of goals, strategy and execution is needed for success. https://youtu.be/A4kZGcdOpUY
Being the most interested person in the room makes you the most interesting.
Read what Marcel Schwantes from Inc. says about the brain science behind owning the room in a social setting. Stepping into new social situations can be daunting. Whether it's a networking event, a conference, or a gathering with unfamiliar faces, the pressure to connect with others can feel overwhelming (introverts,…
Making decisions is the toughest thing leaders do. Here’s some advice on when to move fast and when to slow down.
Making decisions, even in areas you know relatively well, usually involves an element of uncertainty. Sometimes decisions can be made quickly, and uncertainty is acceptable or desirable. Other times, decisions are made slowly and deliberately to remove as much uncertainty as possible. Once you are faced with a decision, the…
Take time: A Lesson from Einstein and Lincoln
Today productivity is often equated with constant action; it's easy to overlook the importance of taking time to plan, reflect, and think. Yet, two of history's most iconic figures, Albert Einstein and Abraham Lincoln, recognized the value of this approach. Einstein famously said, "If I had 60 minutes to solve…
Are you preparing yourself to be as successful as you want to be?
"Sharpening your saw" is key to your success. https://youtu.be/vcaVTwqQ5uE
Our employees look to us for guidance. Use these numbers to engage more meaningfully.
Loneliness might sound like a mild problem compared with threats to your health or livelihood. But according to U.S. surgeon general Vivek Murthy, loneliness is actually a national emergency. And our disconnection at work is a huge part of the problem. "Our epidemic of loneliness and isolation has been an underappreciated public health crisis," warned Murthy…
The fine line between Critique and Criticism
In our communication, whether it's in personal relationships, the workplace, or within creative endeavors, understanding the nuances between critique and criticism is crucial. While both involve providing feedback, their impact and effectiveness differ significantly. Critique, unlike criticism, is characterized by its constructive nature. It aims to provide helpful insights, focusing…
How to bring critique not criticism.
Critique is all about benefiting the other. https://youtu.be/pev0h-35Qqg
Still have your crayons? They could reduce your stress.
Cast your mind back to 2015. It was a time when Trump was mostly still a reality TV star, everyone wanted to see that hot new musical Hamilton, and Instagram was the cool new social network. It was also the moment of another huge craze most of us have long since stopped thinking about, but which…
Do you have the patience needed to get clarity?
The Power of Clarity in Communication: Building Stronger Connections Communication is the cornerstone of human interaction, yet it's often plagued by ambiguity and misinterpretation. In the pursuit of effective communication, clarity emerges as the guiding principle, illuminating the path to understanding and fostering meaningful connections. "Clear is Kind" encapsulates the…
Clear is kind. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
The clearer we can be, the easier it is for others to follow us. https://youtu.be/dK9nkYv6NJ0
Can you take a week off from coffee?
Coffee does plenty of cool things. Coffee can reduce your risk of cancer up to 20 percent, your risk of type 2 diabetes by 30 percent, and your risk of Parkinson's disease by 30 percent. A study published in Circulation found that coffee can reduce the risk of stroke by 20 percent. A study of over 260,000 people conducted…
In just two weeks!
This is the month! In just two weeks I'm heading to the 2024 Symposium hosted by @CANA to present Dealing with the Stressors of our Times and Thriving Despite Them . There, funeral professionals from across the continent will be talking about the solutions we can offer our eco-conscious families. I…
Collaborating so it’s just right.
Striking the Right Note in Collaboration: Finding the "Just Right" Balance In the intricate dance of collaboration, much like Goldilocks testing the three bears' beds, finding the "just right" balance is key. The dynamics between collaborators play a pivotal role, making it crucial for both parties to navigate the delicate…
Getting Collaboration just right. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Collaboration is an intentional skill. https://youtu.be/NB_3wnYBo8s
Best. Words. Ever.
"What am I doing wrong?" That question kept pounding through my head. I had recently learned of a friend whose business was doing huge numbers, much bigger than mine. My newsletter had tens of thousands of subscribers. His had a hundred thousand. My podcast got thousands of downloads. His got…
It’s easy being green!
In less than one month, I'm heading to the 2024 Symposium hosted by @CANA to present Dealing with the Stressors of our Times and Thriving Despite Them . There, funeral professionals from across the continent will be talking about the solutions we can offer our eco-conscious families. I hope you'll join us!…
The magic of communicating care
The Art of Communicating Care: A Lesson in Listening In a world bustling with advice and quick solutions, how often do we truly experience someone just listening? The essence of Communicating Care lies not in solving problems but in the subtle art of being present. It's a skill that transcends…
How much do you care? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
What does it look like to communicate care to someone? https://youtu.be/8xWi7YSli8Y
Adam Grant shares how to give feedback that’s heard well.
How do you give feedback to a CEO who’s twice your age? I was 25, a new professor called in as a last-ditch, Hail Mary effort to save a dying company. They had already fired three consultants, so why not try me? The CEO had been leading longer than I’d…
Curious about how to deal the stressors of our time?
I'll be taking the stage at @CANA’s 2024 Symposium in Las Vegas this February to talk about Thriving Despite the Stressors of our Time. I can't wait to share ideas for leading in the new year and exploring ways we can connect with the eco-conscious market together. Join me and…
What can you celebrate this week?
Communicating with celebration Celebrating achievements and fostering effective communication are vital components of a healthy workplace culture. Recognizing when individuals simply want to revel in their accomplishments, free from critique or improvement discussions, is crucial. Failure to acknowledge and celebrate successes can lead to a decline in morale, diminished motivation,…
Do you celebrate enough? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Being able to Celebrate is an important part of good communication. https://youtu.be/dWa-G5Ix_cA
All work from home isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
WASHINGTON (TND) — Remote workers are receiving fewer advancement opportunities than their in-person colleagues, according to new data. The stats from Live Data Technologies show remote workers see promotions 31% less frequently than office workers. Just under 4% of remote employees received position upgrades last year while 5.6% of hybrid or…
Do you know how others want to be treated?
Last year at the CANA Green Symposium I learned so much! This year I am thrilled to be speaking about: The Stressors of our time and how to Thrive despite them. You can be there too! Who: you! What: CANA's 2024 Symposium Where: Las Vegas When: February 14-16 How: Register…
Are you leading how you want or how your people need?
Embracing the Platinum Rule: Understanding Others on Their Terms In a world often guided by the golden rule – treating others as you would like to be treated – there's a paradigm shift gaining momentum: the Platinum Rule. This rule advocates for treating others as they would like to be…
How are you using the Platinum Rule?
There are good reasons to upgrade from the Golden to the Platinum Rule. https://youtu.be/Gl3hdptc2-c
Scott Galloway reviews his 2023 and makes his 2024 predictions. Do you agree?
Each year, we review/make predictions re the past/coming year. Most years, we hit more than we miss. But we do miss — if we made 10 predictions that all came true, that wouldn’t be predicting but stating the obvious. The caliber of a prediction is a function of what it…
It would serve all of us to practice these three traits.
Mark Cuban. Billionaire entrepreneur, owner of the Dallas Mavericks, and one of the sharks on Shark Tank. He's also a boss who has employees. Lots of them. And like all bosses, they look for good employees who'll stick around. In Cuban's case, "The people that tend work for me a long time, not only…
Achieve your goals by time blocking
Goal setting and time blocking using 5 gears for success in 2024. As we step into the dawn of a new year, it's essential to equip ourselves with a comprehensive strategy that ensures balance, productivity, and personal fulfillment. Embracing the philosophy of the "5 Gears" can be a transformative approach…
Do you time block for success? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Being intentional about using all 5 Gears will help you achieve your goals. https://youtu.be/P_SZrOI-NjI
Which Hallmark movie do you need to watch?
Every year, about 80 million viewers tune in to The Hallmark Channel during the holiday season to catch one (or all) of their dozens of original Christmas movies. These holiday staples, which often feature an aspiring entrepreneur or a struggling small business, are jam-packed with inspiring messages and leave viewers with the gift…
Embracing the power of celebration
Embracing the Power of Celebration Celebration stands as a powerful chord that harmonizes our achievements, accomplishments, and the sheer effort invested. It is a moment of recognition, not for the distance left to cover but for the ground we've conquered. When we cast aside the measuring stick and focus on…
Can you celebrate without the critique? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
There are times for critique, and there are also times just for celebration. https://youtu.be/uLQkbzv5vO8
As we enter this week before Christmas this is my wish for you.
For Work May you see in what you do The beauty of your soul. May the sacredness of your work Bring light and renewal to those Who work with you and to those who see and receive your work. May your work never exhaust you. May evening find you gracious…
Reach out this season
Finding Warmth in Holiday Connections The holiday season, with its twinkling lights and festive cheer, is often synonymous with joy and togetherness. However, beneath the surface of the celebrations, there exists a poignant reality for many – a time that can be unexpectedly lonely and isolating. Despite the merriment surrounding…
Many people are experiencing extreme loneliness. What can you do? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Janice shares three strategies to help combat extreme loneliness. https://youtu.be/K1nE11r6kcQ
Do you have a strategy or just a goal?
Many strategy execution processes fail because the firm does not have something worth executing. The strategy consultants come in, do their work, and document the new strategy in a PowerPoint presentation and a weighty report. Town hall meetings are organized, employees are told to change their behavior, balanced scorecards are reformulated, and…
Jerry Seinfeld shares how to succeed with process and live life your way.
Clearly, Jerry Seinfeld knows how to do the work. His standup career spans nearly 50 years. Seinfeld has generated billions in total syndication revenue; to date, Jerry's slice (if you can call it a "slice") is somewhere north of $800 million. Yet money is just one barometer of success: He famously turned down a $100 million offer to do…
Consider making your presence your present.
Embracing the Gift of Presence in a Hectic Season. In the hustle and bustle of our fast-paced lives, it's easy to find ourselves caught in a whirlwind of obligations, perpetually thinking about what's next on our ever-growing to-do lists. What if, in the midst of this chaos, we shifted our…
Three ways to give the best present. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Janice shares three suggestions for giving the gift of presence any time of year. https://youtu.be/jwmBu1GfK28
Heard of Chuck Feeney? He could be your next role model.
I was very sad to hear about the passing of Chuck Feeney. He was one of my personal heroes and one of the greatest philanthropists of all time. Chuck had four important traits that made him so special. First, he was totally dedicated to giving away everything he had. In the…
Is there such a thing as too much Psychological Safety?
Innovation is often associated with a relaxed office culture where employees feel safe to try new things and take risks, but new research from Wharton finds comfort is counterproductive in more typical situations. In a co-authored study, management professor Peter Cappelli and his colleagues found that too much “psychological safety” in the workplace…
The art of giving a better gift
In a world where possessions often dominate our thoughts during the gift-giving season, it's time to ponder a different question: What makes a truly meaningful gift? Is it the latest gadget or a fashionable accessory, or could it be something more profound that transcends the material? Consider the gift of…
Tis the season for giving. What’s the better gift this year? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
'Tis the season for giving. What is the better gift this year? https://youtu.be/whHi7wrlId0
Seth Godin shares a fresh perspective on Problems and Situations.
Working with problems They’re everywhere we look. Here are a few thoughts on the ones that won’t go away: First, is it a problem or a situation? Problems, by definition, have solutions. You might not like the cost of the solution, the trade-offs it leads to, or the time and…
Give thanks for the benefit of it!
The ROI of giving thanks In the midst of Thanksgiving week, the concept of expressing gratitude might appear cliché, but its impact goes beyond mere tradition. Embracing thankfulness opens the door to a multitude of benefits that can significantly enhance our lives. One of the profound advantages of practicing gratitude…
Are you unleashing the power of thanks? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Being thankful creates room for new options and builds a reservoir for difficult times. https://youtu.be/_kbVrlaA0sk
Do you access these components of Grit?
Imagine you're steering your ship through a wild, stormy sea. The waves rear up like angry giants, crashing against your vessel. It feels like the world is throwing its worst at you, daring you to turn back. But you stand firm at the helm, eyes fixed on the distant horizon. Sorry…
How would increased patience serve you? Are you willing to slow down and find out?
BY MARCEL SCHWANTES, INC. CONTRIBUTING EDITOR AND FOUNDER, LEADERSHIP FROM THE CORE We live in a society that values immediate gratification. At work, we negotiate for what we need to get our work done to meet demanding deadlines and look good to our bosses. If we don't get replies to our urgent emails and texts at…
Assess these 5 areas to improve your peace.
A Holistic Approach to Assessing Our Overall Peace True peace extends beyond mere absence of conflict; it's a delicate interplay of various elements that contribute to our overall well-being. By conscientiously assessing and nurturing these aspects, we can elevate our sense of peace and harmony. Purpose Consider your purpose—the energy…
Are you ready to be proactive about your sense of peace? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
That funk you feel sometimes may be a low Peace Index. Janice wraps up her series on the 5 parts of the Index. https://youtu.be/zV47Na1l-ig
Bill Gates shares exciting potential and room for pause as we consider a future with AI.
I still love software as much today as I did when Paul Allen and I started Microsoft. But—even though it has improved a lot in the decades since then—in many ways, software is still pretty dumb. To do any task on a computer, you have to tell your device which…
Embracing Imperfections: A Path to Growth and Learning
In a world that often glorifies perfection, embracing imperfections can be a revolutionary act of self-love and personal development. The pursuit of perfection can be paralyzing, hindering our ability to learn and grow. After all, if we were perfect, what would be left to learn? It's in our imperfections that…
Finding Peace from Connection with Your Place
It’s easy to lose sight of the profound impact our surroundings can have on our well-being. When we talk about "place," it's not just the physical location you occupy, but the entire ecosystem that surrounds you – your home, office, neighborhood, and the people you interact with on a daily…
How is your place impacting you?
Janice talks about how place can be conducive to your peace. https://youtu.be/maPgeudWBnw
These 7 actions and 4 questions can help grow your leadership capacity.
Deepak Chopra has asked countless leaders about the secret to their success. They all repeat the same refrain: "I was lucky." While luck is part of the formula, there's more to it, Chopra says. The alternative medicine advocate, author of over 90 books, and Inc.'s latest cover subject, spoke with Inc. editor-in-chief Scott Omelianuk on…
There’s hope even if you’re not a natural…
In a culture that focuses so intensely on success, it’s easy to feel like a failure. But according to the organizational psychologist Adam Grant, that might be because we’re thinking about achievement all wrong. Many people assume that accomplishments are tied closely to innate ability, so they give up on…
What does your provision look like?
Finding Peace Through Purposeful Provision In a world that often encourages us to accumulate more, striving for success and material wealth, we sometimes overlook the simple but profound concept of provision. Provision means living within our means, extending a helping hand to those less fortunate, and prioritizing time spent with…
How do you define provision? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
In this third installment on the Peace Index, Janice describes the importance of Provision. https://youtu.be/GgccaRR_U_8
Are you aware of all your FRITOS?
Special thanks to Patrick Ungaschick of Navix Exit Consultants for his insights! According to the FritoLay company website, FRITOS® are “still satisfying fans after more than 80 years.” Surprisingly, these classic corn chips can also help business owners plan for and achieve successful exits. Here’s how. Exiting from a company…
Even extroverts can use this technique.
The pandemic may have been officially over for a while now, but all signs point to the fact that many people are still finding their feet socially. Searches for "What to talk about at work?" have risen over the past two years. Social media is peppered with stories of people struggling to remember how…
Work on these to have physical and mental peace.
The Path to Inner Peace: Nurturing Your Body and Mind In our fast-paced, hectic lives, the pursuit of inner peace often takes a back seat. We're so focused on our responsibilities and commitments that we forget the essential foundation for tranquility lies within ourselves. To embark on the journey toward…
How’s your S.E.X.? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Janice talks about the Physical Health balloon for the Peace Index. https://youtu.be/wefXBLR9EmU
When you’re making decisions, are you using these three filters?
One of the best parts of Garrett Hardin‘s wonderful Filters Against Folly is when he explores the three filters that help us interpret reality. No matter how much we’d like it to, the world does not only operate in our circle of competence. Thus we must learn ways to distinguish reality in areas where we lack…
What workout did you do this morning?
If you're constantly seeking a competitive advantage -- if you're constantly striving to learn more, make better decisions, and improve your problem-solving skills (in other words, if you're an entrepreneur) -- exercise shouldn't be considered a luxury. Or an afterthought. Exercise can play a major role in your success and overall happiness. Here's one example. Studies conducted by the Military Health System shows that chronic…
Your source of peace is within you.
Finding Peace Through Introspection: Uncover Your Answers within In our fast-paced world, finding moments of peace can seem like an elusive dream. We often look for external sources of tranquility, but what if the path to peace started from within? As a coach, I believe in providing a safe space…
What is the future you want for yourself? FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Taking the time to reflect, reframe and renew can help prepare you for the new future you want for yourself. https://youtu.be/2CfkNMQUGUM
42% of your employees are keepers. How do you ensure the other 58% don’t run them off?
In today's rapidly evolving work landscape, organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of employee experience (EX) as a key driver of competitive advantage. Understanding and measuring EX has become paramount, and organizations are turning to the intersection of behavioral science and A.I. to uncover valuable insights into their workforce. McKinsey's recent report on the six…
4 choices to a robust life
Achieving happiness isn't about chasing rainbows or waiting for the perfect moment. It's a journey, not a destination. As someone who coaches leaders, I often remind them to acknowledge that happiness is not a constant but a series of moments. Whether you're in a leadership role or an individual contributor, encourage yourself and those you lead…
Does your work energize you?
Peace through purpose The pursuit of inner peace often seems elusive. We search for it in various ways, from meditation to self- help books, but one profound source of tranquility lies within our grasp: knowing our purpose. The Power of Purpose **"Why am I here?"** It's a question that has…
What is your purpose?
As part of the Peace Index, purpose helps to prevent us from languishing. https://youtu.be/OOyJKYZbH8k
What foundational blocks have you removed that are causing your organization to be shaky?
The Jenga situation When an organization first sets out to have an impact, it discovers that it has no customers, no clients, no constituents. So it shows up, it makes an offer and it listens. The early days are exciting. Customers are seen and heard and served. Variations are created…
How far do we let casual dress go? Do you agree with Ms. Noonan?
We want to be respected but no longer think we need to be respectable. -- The Wall Street Journal: September 28, 2023 For years I’ve had a thought whose expression I could never get right, but it applies to our subject this week, so here goes: Since the triumphant end of World…
Finding Peace Through Intentional Relationships
Peace through our People In a world filled with constant noise and distractions, finding inner peace has become an invaluable pursuit for many. One often overlooked aspect of achieving this peace is the intentional curation of the people we surround ourselves with. Our social circles play a pivotal role in…
Questions to ask about the people you surround yourself with.
There are questions to ask yourself about the people in whom you invest your time. https://youtu.be/KVtuUDEuCQo
Luke Carlson shares marathon tips that apply to our marathon of life.
The Marathon Mimics Life Fall marathon season is upon us. The women’s world record was shattered last weekend in Berlin, the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon is this Sunday (I’ll be cheering while drinking a coffee!), Chicago Marathon is a week away (with one of the most impressive elite fields ever…
In case of emergency: communicate and show empathy.
Traveling on an airplane can be stressful. Even if you aren't afraid of heights or flying, per se, there's still a lot to deal with. One of the worst things is when your flight is delayed. As someone who travels pretty regularly, delays are not my favorite. That's because you usually don't know…
The power of giving credit
Peace from Acknowledgment “The Power of Giving Credit: Finding Peace Through Acknowledgment" In our fast-paced and often self-centered world, finding inner peace can sometimes feel like an elusive dream. Yet, a simple but profound practice can help us attain that sense of serenity – giving credit to those who have…
What can you give away this week?
It may seem counterintuitive, but you increase your influence by giving things away. https://youtu.be/rBfYqb_5dm8
Information overload? The answer is to slow down.
These days, more than ever, we are bombarded daily with information about mindset, leadership, emotional intelligence, goal setting, career skills and personal health and mental well-being practices. Day after day, we watch reels and stories, and we read articles, charts, and graphic descriptions of things we can do in order…
Want happiness? These 2 simple but not always easy approaches almost guarantee it.
Many millions of words have been written on how to be happy, which is both a blessing and a curse. If you're an entrepreneur in the market for tips, there certainly is no shortage of suggestions from everyone from scientists to billionaires to Albert Einstein. But who has time to wade through thousands of articles?…
Tune out and get more done
Finding Peace by Tuning Out: Embracing Digital Discipline In a world dominated by technology, our constant connection to devices has led to a paradox of sorts. While we stay informed and connected like never before, we've also unwittingly invited distractions and a constant sense of urgency into our lives. This…
Learn to limit attention residue
FOMO drives us to pay attention to our devices, but at what cost? https://youtu.be/Ke83xlADA-0
Whether you are leading major change or subtle shifts, these steps will improve your success.
If we’re honest, we’ve all seen a transformation program fail or go off the rails. Although difficult, now more than ever, our organizations need to successfully transform. That’s because, despite the massive disruption we’ve collectively experienced over the last several years, we’ve not yet reached “peak change.” Global forces such…
Three ways to improve your emotional intelligence.
Few figures command the attention and admiration quite like Sir Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group. The billionaire high school dropout is known for his adventurous and risk-taking nature and for taking bold steps to try new things. Branson is also known for being authentic and approachable. He doesn't put on a corporate façade.…
Could you benefit from this peace?
My Wish for You is Peace Through Forgiveness In the journey of life, we often find ourselves carrying the weight of unresolved conflicts and strained relationships. It's a heavy burden to bear, one that keeps us from experiencing the serenity we all yearn for. Today, my wish for you is…
Is there a relationship in which you need a do-over?
The last gear to cover is Reverse, when we need to apologize or ask forgiveness. https://youtu.be/j-A8Ny2EBds
Make difficult conversations not so difficult.
A staggering 85 percent of teams face conflict in the workplace. Nearly 30 percent of those conflicts directly result in reduced productivity. As a Business Growth Coach, I've encountered many entrepreneurs who struggle to initiate difficult conversations in their companies. It usually stems from one of two scenarios: First, there's the guilt-ridden entrepreneur who asks, "How can I…
Are you innovating or executing?
Whether you are a business professional in a big company, or an entrepreneur with a startup, innovation is a key strategy. Many people believe that new ideas are the critical element of innovation, but in my experience as a mentor and investor, long-term business success is more about implementation than ideas. Everyone has ideas,…
Who is in charge of your time?
Wish for Peace - Protecting Your Time Let’s explore a crucial aspect of finding tranquility in our busy lives - protecting your time. In this world of constant demands and distractions, we often forget that time is one of our most precious resources. To truly embrace peace, we must learn…
Protect your Focus Time
Janice encourages us all to protect Gear Five Focus time as much as we do any of the other gears. https://youtu.be/S9AaVAWHZRM
Need some new interview questions? These might give insight into your candidates.
In today's complicated labor market, how do smart CEOs know which candidates to hire, and which to pass by? To find out, we asked this question in our new survey of 1,220 CEOs: "During a job interview, what one question reveals the most about a candidate?" The respondents were CEOs of Inc.…
Reflect on how as well as what you did today.
Peace by reflecting Harvard Business Review did a study that found that a person could increase their productivity by up to 23% if they reflected at the end of the day for just 15 minutes. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t want to increase their productivity. As I asked my…
Work is where the rubber meets the road. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Our work, the fourth gear, is better when we care for the first 3 gears too. https://youtu.be/c2R24P3RY1g
Do your customers love you? Here’s a way to find out.
The most effective strategy in business is getting short shrift in the boardroom, says best-selling author Fred Reichheld, the father of the Net Promoter Score. To truly compete—and build a company with lasting value—directors must refocus attention on the one person that drives everything else: the customer. Here’s how. Quick:…
If you can accomplish as much and reduce turnover, why not consider this?
The four-day workweek is the latest buzzy workplace trend, with experiments and surveys touting improved employee morale, retention and productivity. In one study of 41 businesses across the U.S. and Canada — the majority with 25 or fewer employees — 40% of employees surveyed said they were less stressed after…
My wish for peace by taking the off-ramp.
Life can be a wild ride, filled with unexpected twists and turns. Often, we find ourselves obsessing over things that are beyond our control. Constantly dwelling on these uncontrollable aspects serves us no good. It's like driving down a never-ending highway, caught in a spiral of worry and anxiety. So, how…
Making time to socialize is important. FirecrackerLeadership.com.
Gear Three (Socializing) may not seem important, but it is! https://youtu.be/BFRvizNCtms
I hope some of these are no-brainers. I’d bet everyone could work on at least one of these.
If you want to live a longer, happier life, you're not alone. Life extension is all the rage, especially in Silicon Valley. Ice baths. Supplements. Red light therapy. Ultrasound treatments. Then there are the anti-aging startups; notable names like Amazon's Jeff Bezos, Google co-founder Larry Page, and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel have invested significant sums. Taking your…
AI Won’t Replace Humans — But Humans With AI Will Replace Humans Without AI
from Harvard Business Review
Finding Peace through life’s challenges
My Wish For You. My wish for you is PEACE. In the hustle and bustle of life, I've got a wish for you: peace. But not the kind that comes from endlessly wondering why life throws curveballs at us. No, my wish for you is to find peace by seeking…
Are you connecting with the people who matter?
Janice cover Gear Two today, explaining why it is important to intentionally connect with others. https://youtu.be/7xHmnUpqHWU
The sage of investing has this investment advice.
Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and one of the wealthiest people in the world, has attributed a significant part of his success to a simple yet powerful choice: investing in oneself. Here's what he shared with Good Morning America years back: Investing in yourself is the best thing you can do. Anything that…
Could you use these together because you want to improve?
Clearly words matter, but if you're a leader, research shows -- especially if you hope to increase performance, build more effective teams, forge better relationships, and gain buy-in -- some words matter more than others. Here we go. "Could" You describe a problem during a meeting. "What should we do?" you ask your team. The first thing…
Just heard ITRs focus on 2030 and beyond. This is what CEOs need to do before then.
Would you benefit from a CEO peer group?
If you own office space this McKinsey report is worth your while.
When the COVID-19 pandemic began, it dramatically changed the way people worked, lived, and shopped in cities around the world. The starkest change was where and how they worked. Obeying lockdowns and office closures, tired of uncomfortable masks, and enabled by remote-work technology, many employees abruptly retreated from traditional offices to…
What memories can you make this summer or these last 6 months of the year? What’s your first step?
"Definitely worth it." That's what I thought to myself after a short but crazy family trip. My wife and I run a small business and a large family, including four kids. As you can imagine, traveling can be tricky, as can be finding work-life balance. There's always someone who needs attention--a soccer…
Why Firecracker Leadership?
Many people don’t know that I named the company Firecracker Leadership because I was born on the 4th of July. And if you know me, I have been accused of being a bit of a firecracker. I take it as a compliment. I am so proud of the fact that…
Why Firecracker Leadership?
Many people don’t know that I named the company Firecracker Leadership because I was born on the 4th of July. And if you know me, I have been accused of being a bit of a firecracker. I take it as a compliment. I am so proud of the fact that…
Can we expect a “Forever Labor Shortage”?
Ever since the pandemic, American companies big and small have been scrambling to find enough workers to stay fully staffed. They've been forced to offer big salaries and generous perks, while employees were free to shop around for better offers or simply walk off the job to join the Great…
What can you let go of?
My wish for you is peace. And I want you to consider the concept of fostering peace through empowering others. As leaders, we have a unique opportunity to create a harmonious and collaborative environment by empowering those around us to reach their full potential. Peace through empowering others involves recognizing…
Teams that are aligned around purpose, empathy, and patience have it dialed in.
A global S&P 500 CEO—and lifelong skydiver—shares the three principles that guide his leadership team in precarious times. For CEOs leading through today’s uncertain and rapidly changing environment, it can sometimes feel like you’re an experienced skydiver – you are reliant on training, experience, and instinct as your guides. As…
Use these 4 Rs as a lens for high stakes decisions.
Decisiveness is often cited as a desirable trait in leaders. Definitions of decisive include “having the power to decide; conclusive” and “characterized by decision and firmness; resolute.” Yes, a leader must make decisions, but effectiveness depends on when and how the decision is made, not just that it was made. I have observed and interviewed leaders…
Peace through Relationships (it starts with relationship with yourself).
My Wish For You. My wish for you is PEACE. Peace beyond circumstance, peace beyond understanding, and peace because you love yourself. What does that look like? One thing that impacts your peace is relationships. Your relationship with yourself and your relationship with others. Having others around you that help…
Use these three questions when the conversation counts. LimitlessLeadersNM.com.
2023-06-20 Tuesday toolbox - 720
Can you show evidence of these three habits in your life?
Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and one of the richest people in the world, is renowned for his financial acumen and profound insights into life and success. One such gem of wisdom from Buffett revolves around the underestimated power of habits. He once said: I think that people underestimate -- until they…
Is this an investment strategy you’d consider?
By JAMES CHEN Updated May 16, 2022 Reviewed by GORDON SCOTT What Is a Pick-and-Shovel Play? A pick-and-shovel play is an investment strategy that invests in the underlying technology needed to produce a good or service instead of in the final output. It is a way to invest in…
Are you really resting on your vacation?
My wish for you is Peace through Rest I took a week-long vacation three weeks ago. I really took time off. Before we left, my husband asked me how much I planned to work during our off week. I negotiated one hour a day - just in case. You know,…
Be interested before trying to be interesting.
What's the smartest way to make a great first impression when you meet a customer, investor, or anyone else? Ask them for advice. It may be counterintuitive, but asking for advice will make you seem smarter. Unfortunately, many of us believe the opposite is true. If we want to impress a new acquaintance…
Are you sleeping enough to recharge your brain?
If the world's most famous creative geniuses had one habit in common, would you try to follow it yourself? Well, it seems many of them did--they got seven to nine hours of sleep every night. That observation is based on a chart created by RJ Andrews, a data visualization expert and founder of the information graphic studio Info…
Can you live without regrets?
My wish for you is Peace by living with no regret I have a book I bought last year that asks a question a day for 5 years. Each day a new question is posed and I answer it annually. It is interesting to see after a year has passed…
Do you want to be responsible for almost half your team doing less? Then be nice!
Remember as a child when you were told, "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all"? Well, that piece of advice is relevant when it comes to managing a team as well. And as anyone who has ever managed a group of people knows, it can be…
As we enter the summer season, it is a great time to think about having fun. Let’s bring silliness with us to work!
My Wednesday Wish is Peace from Playfulness I was just reading a blog that suggested disruption in industries could come from things that look like toys to us. And all of us “buttoned-up” business people could poo-poo something fun because it’s not serious enough. I tend to be one of…
This Inc article shares how to have courageous conversations. I’d add using your values as a guide.
"I've been avoiding having the ownership conversation with Louis," Ron confided during a coaching session. "I know he'll get upset." Then he paused and took a deep breath, "I need to just do it." In my executive coaching practice, how to have hard conversations comes up again and again. There…
My Wish is for you to think about the truth you hold. Is it really the truth?
My Wish for You is Peace. My wish for you is peace by finding your truth. Do you know your truth? Are you aware of the lens you use to view the world? How is that lens influencing you? As I have mentioned, I have two dogs. Winnie and Piglet.…
Good advice whether you’re and employer or an employee. How are you making your team better?
In my ongoing conversations with C-suite leaders, the question about what employers value in their new recruits often leads to a lively exchange. With more talk about what companies need to do to retain talent in a tight labor market, a list of employer expectations might seem like a blast from…
My Wish for You is Peace through Self Empathy.
In my work with GiANT Worldwide, I have been taught and believe that you cannot give away what you do not possess. What does that mean? Well in the literal sense, I can’t give you a piece of pie if I don’t have pie to give you. In the theoretical…
Thanks to strategy consultant Jeroen Kraaijenbrink for these insights about company strategy.
Strategies fail, more often than not. To improve on this, it is essential to see the signs your strategy is failing, and see them early. Look for these 13 signs and act. Whether you have it formalized and written down or not, EVERY company has some sort of strategy. There…
FirecrackerLeadership is starting a new group in June. Schedule a meeting with Janice.
Do you qualify? https://content.leadquizzes.com/lp/pFQc1F_NjQ Schedule a chat. https://calendly.com/janicehoneycutthering/30min Schedule a meeting with Janice
What are you looking for? You’ll probably find it.
My Wednesday Wish is Peace through gathering positive evidence If I tell you to go into the next room and look at the big mess in there, you will probably go looking for the big mess. And even if there are. flowers and nice decorations, you will look past those…
Want to be WISER? Read how.
You can read a million articles and books on making better decisions, avoiding bias, and raising your EQ, but they'll do you no good if your emotions regularly swamp your ability to think through problems constructively. A CEO or founder can read about the value of intellectual humility. But if they can't get over their need to prove they're…
Read about the 10 shifts here, and download the full report from McKinsey.
Organizations today face ten significant shifts. Here’s what to do about them. The State of Organizations 2023: Ten shifts transforming organizations April 26, 2023 | Report By Patrick Guggenberger, Dana Maor, Michael Park, and Patrick Simon DOWNLOADS Special Report The State of Organizations 2023 Full Report (92 pages) Business leaders around the world are…
I wrote this in 2021, and have since added good margin to my life, but I think it is still relevant for many people today.
My Wish for you is Peace by Creating Margin I was journaling the other night after a 6-week break from writing. I usually get great clarity from the reflection, introspection, and insight I get from the basic act of journaling. I wrote, “I’ve been a little rebellious about journaling even…
Inc shares how to lead your team, GiANT shares how to assess if your team has those traits. Go to FirecrackerLeadership.com to learn more.
A global consulting firm asked more than 7,000 leaders from more than 100 countries, "Do you have the leadership capabilities required to overcome the leadership challenges ahead?" Only 17 percent of all executives replied, "Definitely, yes!" Obviously, many leaders question their team members' leadership capabilities and are full of leadership self-doubts themselves. Here is how one…
Are you worth 1.75 of your employees?
Chances are you don’t love your boss. Even if you don’t hate them, you probably don’t understand why they’re the boss, and you’re not. You’re not going to like the answer: It’s because they really are more productive than you. Researchers took a look at the differences in productivity between the big wigs and…
My Wednesday wish for peace
Peace by reflecting Harvard Business Review did a study that found that a person could increase their productivity by up to 23% if they reflected at the end of. the day for just 15 minutes. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t want to increase their productivity. As I asked my…
Making two subtle shifts could improve how you lead.
Are you a manager or are you a leader? As a business coach, this question comes up a lot, and many people use the terms interchangeably. But there is a difference between the two, and there is a time and a place for you to be a manager and to be a leader.…
One of my clients asked ChatGPT to create a funny bio for me. I kinda like it.
Meet Janice, the CEO whisperer, the executive coach with the Midas touch. She’s so good at coaching successful business owners to even greater heights that she’s been nationally recognized and even received some awards for her awesomeness. With more than 30 years of experience and degrees in Business Administration, and…
What road are you on? My Wish for you is peace.
My Wednesday Wish My Wish for you is for Peace by being Present with yourself. How aware are you of your mood? What is your default mood? Are you typically happy and peace- filled? Are you anxious? Are you angry or irritated? Are you stressed? Are you laid-back? If you…
One of these suggestions has a flaw, do you know which one? I could tell you, but…
We talk a lot about the importance of emotional intelligence, and how it can help company founders and business executives be better leaders. But how can you tell if you have it or not? To help you figure that out, word usage experts and New York Times bestselling authors Kathryn and Ross Petras have compiled 13…
Do your people experience you this way?
Conflict happens in the workplace. A lot. We don't see eye-to-eye; we have opposing agendas and often try to get our way at the expense of another person. But here's the reality: These things don't normally occur in workplace communities of care, where people value relationships. Truth is, human beings are inherently designed to…
My Wednesday Wish for Peace
My Wish for you is for Peace through Forgiveness. There is a saying attributed to Buddha that says, “Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.” I think that is a most telling perspective in that, typically, the person who is harmed most by…
ChatGBT is the next cool thing. Several folks thinks we should slow it down. What do you think?
A Six-Month AI Pause? No, Longer Is NeededIt’s crucial that we understand the dangers of this technology before it advances any further. -- The Wall Street Journal: April 6, 2023 Artificial intelligence is unreservedly advanced by the stupid (there’s nothing to fear, you’re being paranoid), the preening (buddy, you don’t know your…
Communication is a two-way street. Leaders have a role, so do those they lead.
After nearly 20 years of executive coaching, I have seen the best and the worst of people skills in the leaders I've coached. Most of the problems I see with my clients in senior- or middle-management roles come down to three words: lack of communication. Practicing good communication is everything in the workplace. Clear direction…
What if you presumed positive intent with everyone you lead?
There is a story of a man who would come home every day and his wife would nag him about the chores he didn’t do, the things he promised to do and hadn’t and she would express how he didn’t meet her expectations. Naturally, he would look for things that…
Sage words from the Sage in Omaha. Try these 2 things today.
Warren Buffett once said: "The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to almost everything." On its face, it sounds contradictory. But in that one-liner there's a mountain of wisdom that many leaders could benefit from. In the modern workplace, there's no…
My Wednesday Wish
My Wednesday Wish is for you to plant a garden It’s not too soon to plant a garden for Spring. Plant three rows of Peas. Peace of heart Peace of mind Peace of soul Plant Four rows of squash Squash Indifference Squash Selfishness Squash Grumbling Squash Gossip Plant Four kinds…
Difficult people bugging you? Find the Gift.
Every workplace has them. Some more than others. Often we work with them, sometimes for them. Idiots can be anywhere and everywhere. They are not restricted to a sector of the work force, parts of society or particular suburbs. To para-phrase child actor Haley Joel Osment from the 1999 movie…
These 5 choices can make you happier and less stressed no matter what your title.
I have a confession to make. As a busy entrepreneur juggling multiple priorities, I am at times completely overwhelmed by the number of choices that I have to make each day. I know I'm not alone. It's estimated that the average adult makes about 35,000 remotely conscious decisions each day. Some of those decisions may lead…
How NOT to have a performance conversation.
For a lot of business owners, managing a team is one of the hardest but most rewarding parts of the job. If handled properly, you can grow your business and experience a level of growth and freedom that your competition can't. But if done improperly, it can really hurt your business and your…
Have you considered the peace you could have from NOT taking action?
Today, my wish for you is to find peace in the midst of all the chaos and uncertainty of life. And sometimes, that peace can come from not taking action. As leaders, we're often expected to take charge and be in control at all times. But sometimes, the best thing…
“Tuesday Toolkit”
Who can you call up? When we are leading others, it is important to begin with support first. What does support look like? Well, it depends upon the person. But in order to be Liberated and experience an environment of empowerment and growth, leaders need to bring support AND challenge.…
Gentle reminders to take care of ourselves.
As the head of a company, the CEO carries a great deal of responsibility on their shoulders. The pressure of managing a business and the constant demand for outstanding results can take a toll on their physical and mental health, leading to burnout. Why are CEO’s prone to burnout? In my…
Lots of concern about SVB. Here are 5 questions to assess your company’s risk.
Silicon Valley Bank's sudden implosion throttled startups, as founders raced to secure their finances before the regulators moved in. Here's the good news: thanks to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation's intervention, much of the original concern around accessing funds has been assuaged. Federal banking agencies pledged to backstop all SVB depositors, including both insured…
As a follow up from the Tuesday Toolbox My Wednesday Wish is Peace by listening.
Wednesday Wish for Peace by Listening to Find Agreement As success-oriented leaders, we often think we have the answer to pretty much anything you throw at us. And if we don’t have the answer, we pretend we do. I often say being positive is being wrong as loudly as possible.…
Are you on top of these workplace trends?
December 22, 2022 Contributor: Emily Rose McRae and Peter Aykens How you respond to them could determine whether you’re an employer of choice. As we enter the third year since COVID-19 came into existence, the virus has proven to have a lasting impact on the future of work. In 2023, organizations face historic…
This HBR article suggests we use Appreciative Inquiry when we have tough decisions to make: Look into your past, remember how you were successful before, and apply those behaviors to your new situation. It works if you open your mind.
What happens when you’re faced with a decision that requires a leap of faith? Most of us want to turn and run from these kinds of decisions. Leaps of faith make great scenes in a movie, but in real life they fill us with stress and uncertainty, two emotions that…
Gratitude is giving thanks for the little things daily, not waiting for some big thing to celebrate.
Peace through Gratitude I have searched for peace for decades. Peace is the foundation for all the best things I accomplish. During the pandemic I became aware that I was not at peace, and that I could influence whether I was or not. The isolation, the mundane repetition, the lack…
“Tuesday Toolkit”
The Know Yourself to Lead Yourself tool is one of self awareness. Knowing your tendencies and how you are being experienced is key to changing patterns, actions,and behaviors that might be leading to negative consequences and a reality you don’t desire.
Giving projects to test capabilities is a great way to determine management capacity.
Mistaking one for the other can lead to toxicity in the senior ranks—and create a mess you'll have to clean up later. Here are five traits to look for before promotion. At many companies, leadership development involves identifying top performers and moving them into management positions, with the expectation that…
Take the quiz. It takes less than 5 minutes. Have you people take the quiz. Then fix the “NOs”.
40 million employees left their jobs after the pandemic, according to the New York Times. Where are they now? Well, according to the same article, the majority of people traded low-paying jobs that made them miserable for better-paying jobs that fulfilled them. The pandemic did not cause the great resignation, but…
Experiencing any of these red flags?
On the heels of the pandemic and Great Resignation, companies are now facing an historic crisis of leadership, the likes of which we haven't seen in over a decade. Trust in leadership has eroded substantially, creating hesitancy among up-and-comers to pursue leadership roles. Aiming to quantify the leadership gap and provide insights on…
Do you have a group of folks you’re tight with. (And not just online?)It could make you happier…
Harvard study director Robert Waldinger provides the data-backed answer to what makes people live happier and longer lives and shares the choices anyone can make to start feeling more fulfilled right now. In this edition of Author Talks, McKinsey Global Publishing’s Molly Liebergall chats with Robert Waldinger, director of the Harvard…
This excerpt, provided by colleague Greg Bustin, shares 5 leadership lessons we can all learn from.
Greg Bustin February 1, 2021 “The country needs — and, unless I mistake its temper — the country demands bold, persistent experimentation. It is common sense to take a method and try it: If it fails, admit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something.” —FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT…
Which of these do you have dialed in as we move into 2023?
Glenn Parker, “Creating a Great Place to Work,” CEOWORLD magazine,” January 20, 2022. The ultimate measure of the man is not where he stands in the moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. — Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Most leaders would prefer to learn new skills or gain…
Who will you warm with your fire?
In our society today, it seems as if every topic immediately polarizes, fragments us and quickly leads to rigidly drawn lines between two opposing sides. Those on our perceived side are right, they’re our allies, the good guys. And those on the other side? They’re just wrong. They are to…
Check out these insights from ITR Economics about their forecasts.
By Brian Beaulieu on February 2, 2023 We endeavor to let people know what the upside and downside risks are in association with every forecast we publish. There are always risks that we must weigh when generating a forecast. In our written and spoken communications we highlight one or more upside risks…
Heard of a pomodoro? Look it up. And try these two things to increase productivity.
Most of us would like to have more focus and be more productive during the day. Even better, we all seek to be more productive every day without experiencing the effects of burnout or exhaustion. Burnout affects everyone, entry-level employees and C-suite executives alike. No industry is immune. In 2019, the World Health Organization classified burnout as a…
Vanessa Van Edwards shared 7 tips to be a better listener. Pick one to improve upon this week? Which are you picking?
When most people think about being interesting or charismatic, they think about talking or saying interesting things. But you can actually be super charismatic while just listening. Here’s how! Good listening skills are important as they form the foundation of deep and meaningful relationships. When you listen to others well,…
Read these 4 happy hacks. Then pick one and ask, “How can I really do that?”
Every day we are faced with having to make decisions for circumstances beyond our control, like being forced to switch flights because of inclement weather to get to your event in Chicago on time. These are things for which we are not directly responsible. But that's life! Here's what you are responsible for, and what you can control: choosing to respond to…
Heard of ChatGPT? Try it out here.
Cybersecurity Concerns and Fun with ChatGPT by Mike Foster | Jan/25/2023 If you’ve not tried Open AI ChatGPT yet, you must. It has changed the world forever and the sooner you try it, the better. You can go to the web address: chat.openai.com/chat. Read the privacy warnings and, if you agree, sign up. When…
As you head into the new year ITR economics shared ways to do it confidently.
What better time than the start of a new year to make some changes to your business planning strategy that will pay dividends in 2023 and beyond? Here are some simple steps that will make a big impact: Look at the Data, Not the Media Data doesn’t have biases. It…
WSJ shares Fed plans to slow rate increases What does the milder rate rise mean for you?
Federal Reserve officials are preparing to slow interest-rate increases for the second straight meeting and debate how much higher to raise them after gaining more confidence inflation will ease further this year. They could begin deliberating at the Jan. 31-Feb. 1 gathering how much more softening in labor demand, spending and inflation they would need to…
Use these 4 ideas from Harvard research to be happier.
What makes you genuinely happy? There could be a wide range of answers ranging from closing a big sale or investment, reaching a mountain summit after an arduous hike, or eating a perfect ice cream cone on a hot summer day. But according to what may be the longest-running scientific study…
This article describes some challenges for both those who want to return to the office and those who would rather work from home.
The ongoing tug of war between remote employees (who are feeling more productive and less burnt out) and their employers (who are feeling bad about paying for an office) could experience a balance shift in 2023. Major companies, aware of fears about a potential recession, are issuing directives to come into the…
Are you doing the 5 things this Inc Article suggests to be a better listener?
I used to think I was a good listener. I could make conversation with just about anyone. But as my emotional intelligence increased, I realized I was making major mistakes in those conversations--mistakes that prevented me from gaining insight into what others were thinking, or that was hurting my relationships in one way or another.…
Thanks to Greg Bustin for this insight today on MLK’s famous speech. What can you share that will inspire your situation?
It’s one of the most famous speeches ever given: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s I Have a Dream speech at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963. It was a catalyst for confronting and changing America’s racial prejudice. But on that day, those famous words…
I love this idea from Leo Bottary. My three words are: Always – consistency and intentionality are key; Be – being over doing. Be present; Learning – curiosity, growth and engaging with the world around me. Always. Be. Learning. What are your 3 words?
Last year, I reconnected with an annual practice I learned from Chris Brogan many years ago called My Three Words. Chris describes the practice as a simple idea: Choose three words (not 1, not 4) to help guide your daily choices and actions. Your three words should come from a place of…
Here is a lengthy list from LinkedIn of things expected to impact us in 2023.
December 6, 2022 2022 was not a year for the faint of heart. We welcomed an easing of pandemic restrictions in many parts of the world, but were quickly hit by record inflation, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and repeated reminders that the consequences of climate change aren’t coming, they’re already here. The past year also made clear how…
Fast Company shares 6 words to cut from your vocabulary.
Your job title isn’t the only thing that determines how influential you are. Every word you use at work expresses your personal brand, from your confidence and authority to your depth of knowledge. And it’s verbs–those action words that should be the engine of a sentence–that most often trip us up. Overusing certain weak verbs…
Here are 3 reasons from Inc why to improve your writing. What are your strategies to write well?
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employers rate "soft skills" such as communication as essential to success. A recent article in Harvard Business Review indicates that the need for soft skills goes straight to the top. The authors' research showed that C-suite job descriptions that required strength in soft skills increased by almost 30…
Can you try these things this new year? Pick one to start.
Productivity has become a hot topic in recent years. With the shift to remote working, more businesses are looking at ways to make their workforce as productive as possible, even when they’re not in the office. And outside of the workplace, people are looking for ways to manage their ever-busier…
We are more connected than ever and more of us are lonely. Here’s how to change that.
Loneliness is poison. It’s literally killing us. Over the past couple of decades, researchers have repeatedly found a direct link between loneliness and a whole host of physical and psychological problems like heart disease and mental illness.1 Loneliness cripples us physically, unwinds us mentally, and makes it impossible to be spiritually whole. The…
This CEOWorld article shares why you may want a coach this year.
When was the last time you felt excited and sure that you had everything maximized in your life? Most people just get pulled along without ever stopping to decide where they genuinely want to go and how to get there. According to Leigh Ann Orsi, a certified life coach, working with a life…
Use this Inc article to build your leadership habits this new year.
The higher road to being a good leader is a courageous journey; it's walking the talk of character and integrity, and there are no shortcuts. Good leaders who choose this journey know they can't succeed without learning from others, especially what it means to serve for the good of others. Leaders learn to become leaders by modeling…
This Inc article shares 10 rules to increase your EI.
How can I increase my emotional intelligence? Over the years, thousands of readers have reached out with that question. They know that emotional intelligence, the ability to understand and manage emotions, is an invaluable quality that can make them better leaders and collaborators, make them more productive, and improve their relationships with…
This short CEOWorld article shares that psychological safety and support are keys to creating stronger teams.
Confident individuals and teams who feel good about where they work, who they work with, and what they do, are one of many ingredients that supercharge a company culture that drives success. Do you wish your teams felt like they had the autonomy to make more decisions based on their own…
This article represents GiANT’s Liberation: Support and Challenge.
Demanding and Supportive My first Instacart board meeting was in November 2015. I had joined a month earlier as CFO. Our financials were ugly. We had $2M of revenue but were chewing through $11M of cash every four weeks, and lost $15 on every delivery. We were going to exhaust…
As we come into this holiday season, remember to take that break. It’s beneficial.
My wish for you is Peace through Rest I took a week-long vacation three weeks ago. I really took time off. Before we left, my husband asked me how much I planned to work during the week we were off. I negotiated one hour a day - just in case.…
It’s up to senior leadership to make climbing the ladder look attractive and that includes balance and boundaries for life.
Deijha Martin, 26 years old, works as a data analyst from her Bronx, N.Y., apartment. On workdays, she’ll chip away at a task until 5:10 p.m. or 5:20 p.m., but never 6 p.m. She loves travel, and earlier this year tapped her company’s unlimited vacation policy to jet to Greece…
Use these phrases from Inc.com to make your holidays better and build the habit to take into the new year.
Small talk. It's a challenge. It's even harder now, after so many people have scaled back their human interactions during the pandemic. However, we have some good news. Small talk fills an important need, and it turns out that you can learn to make it come more naturally, and even prompt other…
Do you look for agreement in your disagreements? Try this.
As success-oriented leaders, we often think we have the answer to pretty much anything you throw at us. And if we don’t have the answer, we pretend we do. I often say being positive is being wrong as loudly as possible. “Are you sure?” “I am POSITIVE!” Being “Right” really…
This Inc article talks about SEX (Sleep, Eating, eXercise) Hows yours?
We all thought Derek (not his real name, for reasons that will soon be obvious) had gotten stuck in his ways: too rigid, too conventional, too slow to act on new ideas. We liked him as a person. But as a supervisor? Maybe a little past his sell-by date. Hold that thought. Where success is concerned, luck…
Julie Lythcott-Haims has great advice for this Monday: Talk to strangers. See why it could be good for all of us.
In childhood, we’re told: “Don’t talk to strangers.” But this is short-sighted advice because after we finish high school and move out into the world, everyone we encounter is a stranger. And we’re a social species, which means we need each other. So instead of avoiding strangers, we need to get good…
Still trying to make your old ways work in a new reality? Here are 3 ideas from Craig Groeschel to upgrade your approach.
By Craig Groeschel The lifespan of your current systems, structure, and strategy is diminishing. The way you’re doing what you’re doing won’t work forever—just ask Kodak, Polaroid, Blockbuster, or any of the other companies that were incredibly successful at one point and then lost relevancy. If you're not adapting, you're…
This article from Chief Executive has an interesting perspective about short and long term thinking employees. How deep is your bench?
It's time to face a tough truth: we might have emotionally healthier employees in the future, but they may not have a place to be employed. If you are an executive reviewing employees’ movements in the last 18 months, such as the “great resignation,” “quiet quitting,” and #ActYourWage, you are…
In reading this HR-Brew article, I encourage leaders to think about how OTHERS might want to be treated. (Platinum rule)
BySusanna Vogel November 17, 2022 · 4 min read When Hugh Cassidy received an email from his former employer, healthcare predictive-analytics company LeanTaaS, asking if he or other company alumni knew anyone who might be qualified to run its data science team, he realized he did know a guy: himself. Though he never planned…
This short article from Inc. Shares how to mitigate decision fatigue.
Success, in whatever way you choose to define "success," comes down to what you do -- over and over again. But every action starts with a decision. That's why most successful people have a process for making decisions. Oprah Winfrey decides which bridges to cross and which to burn. Jeff Bezos spends little time weighing the pros and cons of easily…
Happy Thanksgiving! Want to be really happy? Try this?
This week as I was thinking about Thanksgiving approaching, (and was dealing with some head trash about the family get togethers and a few other things that were starting to hijack me), I decided to focus on gratitude. And while all week long we have seen something about gratitude, and…
This Inc article compels me to start sharing differently.
BY JESSICA STILLMAN, CONTRIBUTOR, INC.COM@ENTRYLEVELREBEL At first glance, you might think there isn't much overlap between the skills you need to be a great actor and the skills you need to be a great business owner. But Reese Witherspoon disagrees. Sure, you can make millions in business without being able to cry on…
Not married to your life partner? It could be costing you. See what the WSJ study shows.
A walk down the aisle can be a route to greater wealth and prosperity for couples in the U.S. Married people have higher net worths and are more likely to be homeowners than their unmarried counterparts their age are. The mystery, though, is why cohabitating but unmarried couples struggle to build wealth…
I’ve always said the best leaders just use influence. This post from Ted.com shows how.
May 5, 2022 / David Burkus PhD Just because you don’t have a title, that doesn’t mean you’re not a leader. But if you want to someday gain that title and a position of team leader or manager, then there’s a dilemma you’ll have to reconcile. You’ll have to be able to…
Quick infographic from New Equipment Digest to see how to be more lean. Take a lesson from the Wright Bros.
Wright Brothers' Lessons in Lean Oct. 21, 2016 The Lean approach is all about delivering a great product without wasting or underusing time and resources and the Wright Brothers are a great example. NED Staff The Lean approach is all about delivering a great product without wasting or underusing time…
I love Weird Al, and now even more. Workable shows how he’s an awesome leader. Most folks would want to work for a leader like him.
Who could be more different than Elon Musk and “Weird Al” Yankovic? Yet both are in the news, Yankovic because of his new parody biopic and Musk because of Twitter. If you’re looking for leadership advice, you’re more likely to turn to Musk. Many people have written articles praising Musk's “transformational leadership.” SUZANNE…
If you don’t schedule rest, no one will do it for you. Read more in the WSJ article.
When Ali Kahlert was diagnosed with a kidney infection last month, she gratefully accepted an IV at urgent care and dutifully swallowed antibiotics as prescribed. It was the last bit of the doctor’s orders that threw her for a loop: rest. “I was starting to climb the walls. I need…
Could color coding your calendar help you see if you’re spending time on the right priorities? Read this inc.com article to see how.
Bill Gates schedules every five minutes of his day. That makes the Microsoft founder turned philanthropist immune from procrastination, right? It certainly makes him busy. But according to science, it's perfectly possible to frantically complete tasks all day and still procrastinate. Researchers call this phenomenon "priority dilution," and it's an issue most of…
This inc.com article shares 3 unicorn gifts to look for in employees. Do you possess them?
When looking to hire the best talent, how can you find people who can help you truly transform your business? Of course, you'll be on the lookout for dedicated hard workers with proven track records, but who will take your team to the next level? Mauro Porcini, chief design officer at PepsiCo, advocates…
This blog post shares insights from turning the worst performing ship in the navy to the best. Without a change in personnel.
Michael Abrashoff was in his mid-thirties when he took command of the USS Benfold, a guided missile destroyer and one of the worst-performing ships in the navy. Despite her potency, the “dysfunctional ship had a sullen crew that resented being there and could not wait to get out of the Navy.” By…
Do you have beginning and end of day rituals? CEOWorld shares some you might consider.
As a leader, when you have a lot on your plate – whether it’s work or family responsibilities– it can feel like things are spiraling out of control. In my own life, one of the most challenging periods was when I was caring for a deathly ill family member. What…
Inc.com shares advice from Warren Buffett. Excuse me, what was that?
BY MARCEL SCHWANTES, INC. CONTRIBUTING EDITOR AND FOUNDER, LEADERSHIP FROM THE CORE@MARCELSCHWANTES At 92, billionaire investor Warren Buffett is still going strong. His sound investing advice is certainly full of wisdom; his practical life and career tips provide even more value. Warren Buffett understands that there are limiting behaviors and bad habits that hold us…
Worried about the future? ITR Economics shares how 2030 will be different from 1930 and how to deal with what we have coming.
Most people have lived through difficult economic times of some sort. And everyone has at some point learned about the most significant economic downturn in modern US history – the Great Depression of the 1930s. In keeping with our unique business cycle theory, ITR Economics is forecasting that another Great…
Inc.com shares 8 phrases we shouldn’t say. Are you using any of them?
BY BILL MURPHY JR., WWW.BILLMURPHYJR.COM @BILLMURPHYJR Recently, I wrote two articles about emotional intelligence here on Inc.com (this article and this one) that got a lot of attention. I heard from business leaders afterward, from students, and even from a youth minister who had printed one of the articles and shared it with teenagers in…
Inc magazine shares a one-page memo that set the tone and course for Nike’s culture. Do your people know what’s important to your company?
BY JEFF HADEN, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR, INC.@JEFF_HADEN Routines are handy, but rules -- deciding what you will or will not do in certain situations, without fail -- are much more powerful. That's why effective leaders follow the On the Dot Rule for meetings; research shows meetings that start even a minute late are…
On this day of ghouls and goblins, read this Smithsonian Magazine article about how recreational fear can help build our muscle to deal with other sources of fear we encounter.
Fear gets a bad rap. It’s a so-called negative emotion, one that supposedly stands between us and our dreams. It is certainly true that pure fear doesn’t feel good, but that is the whole point of the emotion. Fear tells us to get the hell out of Dodge because Dodge…
CeoWorld Magazine shared 3 ways to be relevant. What can you learn from these? The articles shares some insight into the economic landscape that you might find interesting.
Innovation, indeed, thrives in recession: In July, government data confirmed that the American economy shrank for the second quarter in a row. Although this didn’t technically confirm a recession, it has raised worries within the business community. A looming recession may stoke anxiety, but business leaders and entrepreneurs should welcome the…
This entrepreneur.com articles shares 7 communication missteps and their fixes. What do you need to work on?
Poor communication from leaders can disrupt a team's cohesion and performance. Leaders need to take care when communicating with their team to ensure that everyone is on the same page. By Chuck H. Shelton October 11, 2022 Leadership communication can make or break your company. Poorly delivered messages can lead to confusion, disorganization and a…
This article from CEO Coaching International shares 4 tips to being a better CEO.
Are great leaders born or made? In our experience, working with leaders who range from start-up entrepreneurs to CEOs of multi-billion-dollar companies, the answer is: both. We’re all born with a unique set of characteristics that influence our potential as leaders. But CEOs who take self-reflection and accountability seriously also…
People respect Patagonia’s founder Yvon Chouinard. This CEO World Magazine article shares 4 reasons why.
“We have always considered Patagonia an experiment in doing business in unconventional ways.” These are the words of Yvon Chouinard – the founder of multi-billion-dollar outdoor apparel company Patagonia. He has often done things differently and even said, “I never wanted to be a businessman.” Recently, you might have read…
This CEO World article shares three common sense ways to maximize your personal talents. Are you doing these?
As a CEO, you wear many hats. This is especially true if you’re running a startup or emerging company. Although juggling multiple priorities at once can make sense early on, it’s not a sustainable practice. When you try to fill every role in an effort to grow your business, you…
This ITR report says the labor shortage is a good sign for the economy. But there are 2 job openings for every applicant. Are you being competitive?
Remember the warnings we issued in late 2020 and throughout 2021 regarding the “positive problems” that tend to accompany business cycle rise – especially steep business cycle rise, such as the rebound that followed the COVID shutdowns? Well, the positive problems are still with us, and they are still…
This lengthy article from McKinsey shares how todays talent is reassessing, reinventing and reshuffling their places in the workforce. Are you adapting?
By Aaron De Smet, Bonnie Dowling, Bryan Hancock, and Bill Schaninger The Great Attrition is making hiring harder. Are you searching the right talent pools? People keep quitting at record levels, yet companies are still trying to attract and retain them the same old ways. New research identifies five types of workers that employers…