How to Expand Power

When leaders control followers, followers lose power. Control is a zero sum game until leaders use their power to expand the power of others. Two choices for the disempowered: Disempowered people have two basic… Continue reading →

5 Questions to Ask During Tough Conversations

The tipping point between prolonged disappointment and renewed vitality is a difficult conversation. Many leadership frustrations are the result of conversations that didn’t happen. The choice to avoid difficult conversations often masquerades as kindness.… Continue reading →

Kiss the Fool

Court jesters occasionally spoke truths and delivered bad news with humor. Modern comedians often make us laugh about injustice or social ills. Kiss the fool who speaks the truth. The more authority you… Continue reading →

The Power of Disadvantage

Olympic athletes Nikki Hamblin of New Zealand and Abbey D’Agostino of the USA tumbled over each other in the women’s 5,000 meter race. It was tragic. But what happened next was magnificent. D’Agostino… Continue reading →

She Didn’t Believe – But Others Did

The incompetent may not recognize their ineptitude. It’s called the Dunning-Kruger Effect. I’ve known individuals who had no idea how unskilled they were.  Competence: The research of Dr. David Dunning and Dr. Justin Kruger… Continue reading →

Solution Saturday: Aspirations Exceed Qualifications

Dear Dan, I have a team member who aspires to a lofty leadership position. However, the position requires skills and attributes the individual has failed to demonstrate. I want to keep him positively… Continue reading →