Early in 1998, my doctoral committee met to approve my dissertation proposal. Or, at least I thought that was the goal of the meeting. As it turns out, they met to discuss all the reasons for their disapproval: My research thesis was inconsistent; I had proposed a flawed research methodology; and I had formulated inaneRead more
Prior to the Patriots’ stunning comeback in Super Bowl 2017, quarterback Tom Brady answered the question about what makes his team so special: “Mental toughness.” He could have said exceptional physical strength, training, and superior talent, but he didn’t. What team that makes it to the Super Bowl doesn’t embody these? Mental toughness involves somethingRead more
In 2016, Wells Fargo fired more than 5,000 employees who learned the hard way that carrots don’t work–at least not in the long run. Decision-makers tied a substantial piece of these employees’ compensation to steep sales targets and made reaching them a condition of continued employment. They saw movement, if not true motivation. Even whenRead more
Each year I aspire to teach my clients lessons that will help them improve their personal and professional lives and their businesses. But what many of them probably don’t realize is that I simultaneously learn as I teach. And even though I’ve been consulting for more than thirty-five years, each year and each client hasRead more
In Henry IV Part 1, Owen Glendover, the leader of the Welsh rebels joins the insurrection against King Henry. Glendower, a man steeped in the traditional lore of Wales, claims to command great magic. Therefore, mysterious and superstitious, he sometimes acts in response to prophecies and omens. In the play, Glendover boasts to Hotspur, “IRead more
