Matching an expectation to the desired response involves a progression of events that unfold in stages over time. It is important to realize that situations, behaviors, and feelings will always influence the response either negatively or positively. Think about a time when your expectations were not met. Say, for example, you signed up for a […]

In a productive workplace rejection should be viewed as the basis for learning and one of the critical factors leading to success. To be consistently successful you must understand the risk involved in any given situation and strive to minimize the chances of failure by seeking information from others both before and after deciding. The […]

Our higher education system teaches students to compete against each other for recognition and rewards. Having been taught collectively and tested individually throughout their formative years, graduates find the transition from learning to earning difficult because the teaching and testing processes are reversed. First-time job placements enter the workforce valuing only what they can do […]

The Planning Wheel is a contemporary model resembling a ship’s helm, which controls the rudder, and therefore, the direction of the ship. At the center of the wheel is the hub, representing the purpose of the “voyage.” Radiating outward from the hub are the spokes representing communication channels, connecting the hub with the rim of […]

The Planning Wheel is a contemporary model resembling a ship’s helm, which controls the rudder, and therefore, the direction of the ship. At the center of the wheel is the hub, representing the purpose of the “voyage.” Radiating outward from the hub are the spokes representing communication channels, connecting the hub with the rim of […]

An organization without a plan or at least a planning process is not likely to update its vision, mission, goals and objectives, which means that there is no reliable method for employees to establish and meet performance expectations other than by gut feeling. If management merely relies on the winds of fate as their guide, […]

Comparing the flow of information in a functional and a dysfunctional organization can best be illustrated by thinking of an hourglass. An hourglass is a device that measures time by the flow of sand between the upper and lower chambers. A narrow opening between the upper and lower chambers controls the flow. Imagine the hourglass […]

You may be wondering how a dysfunctional manager reaches the top of her or his organization? As we get into the reasons behind such behavior, it might be helpful to keep in mind that these are not bad people they are just dysfunctional in the role of manager. You should also be aware that it could […]

There have always been dysfunctional people in organizations at all levels. Their degree of dysfunction, combined with their level of power, determines the impact their behavior may have — and the impact you can have upon their behavior. Coping with a dysfunctional boss is far more difficult than working with a dysfunctional subordinate. The impact […]

One of the failings of the psychotherapy model is that it has always pointed out the harm that parents and siblings do. What is seldom dealt with is the impact that coworkers can have on one another’s self-image. The consequences of negative peer pressure can neutralize an organization’s effort and bring any well-intentioned growth opportunity […]