How to really help

How to really help

When a coworker comes to you for help with a problem, you’re probably like me. In your quest to be helpful, you give her some advice. Or you share your brilliant process for solving problems. While your aim is to be helpful, you really aren’t maximizing...
Help people learn by experience

Help people learn by experience

Experience is a wonderful teacher. If you’ve ever tried to convince someone of something by using your gift of gab, you know what I mean. It’s hard to talk people into changing their minds. Once people have experienced something for themselves, they...
How to kill wisdom

How to kill wisdom

Barry Schwartz studies wisdom and gave a brilliant Ted lecture on the topic that you won’t want to miss. In case you don’t have 20 minutes to watch the whole lecture now, here are the highlights. Leaders want to encourage certain behaviors in their...
Assume the best

Assume the best

You get to work and read an email from a coworker: Christi – the side door was left unlocked between 2 and 3 pm again. Have you thought of creating a checklist that will help you remember? Jane You think: What a jerk Thanks for the helpful suggestion. I’ll try...
Are you nuts?

Are you nuts?

Do you have to be boring or serious to be a great leader? The responsibilities may be challenging and even daunting some days. That doesn’t mean you have to turn into a somber, bland person. In fact, it’s okay to be a little over-the-top, unique, zany or...