In a time of constant transition, perhaps the only thing that we can
control is the story we create for ourselves. What is the story you
are telling yourself right now?
[September, 2009: from my presentation at the Executive Network Group of Greater Chicago on "Leadership in the era of perpetual transition."]
A few years ago I learned a very simple method for accountability. You decide on a commitment and declare this to an accountability partner. Then you agree to check in with this partner on a regular basis – daily or weekly, depending on the nature of the goal. You can do this check-in by phone…
In early January, my household begins to buzz with anticipation for the start of American Idol. Since the show coincides with the bedtime routine for my daughters, we set our cable DVR to record each episode and then watch the show as a family over the next few days. Over several years of watching the…
My dad died 6 years ago this week, at age 64. Twelve years prior to his death, we (my mom, brother, and I) organized an intervention with my dad to get him to seek treatment for his alcoholism. He chose not to pursue treatment and continued on the path of abuse that ultimately led to…
American Idol has moved from the initial selection rounds through “Hollywood week” into the winnowing down – from the top 24 contestants, week by week – and moving towards the final American Idol winner. In these initial post-Hollywood rounds, the contestants perform a song they have chosen. More than any other factor, what determines who…
Last week at my Strategy & Sales Intensive I worked with several entrepreneurs on the design, pricing, packaging, and structure of their service offerings. We had an eclectic mix of individuals with expertise including IT project management, personal branding, digital content management, and high-end resort hospitality. One of the main themes of the event was…
Last week I interviewed a sales person at one of my clients. I was trying to get a sense for how well the organization is working and to identify the biggest opportunities. After a few minutes of conversation, I asked: What could we do to help you increase sales? The response: Well, I’ve really been…
