Dysfunction is contagious. It spreads from person to person and from project to project. Unchecked, it is possible for an entire culture to become diseased and still not know it is “sick.” The introduction of inclusionary thinking can halt the spread of dysfunction by exposing the possibility that none of us knows the “truth” and […]

When your expectations are high and you’re looking forward to a positive response, you want the time line to be short. Remember as a child excitedly counting the days before your birthday? What if your expectations are low and the response is potentially negative or difficult to accomplish? You’re more likely to postpone the undesirable […]

You have more contact with peers than with bosses, so there is room in those relationships for more misinterpretation when you embark on the path to professional development. Your colleagues have invested time and effort in getting to know you, so don’t be surprised if they are resistive to your good intentions. They want things […]

When a conflict flairs, defending your position should not be your first priority. Instead, listen first to the other person to better understand what’s keeping you apart. Then, armed with two perspectives, you can search for additional sources from which to glean clarifying information.  Disagreements provide a natural opportunity for the involved parties to dig […]

Economic uncertainty and political upheaval can send some people into a doom loop where the days are cloudy and the future is dark. What those folks need is someone to center on the here and now long enough for the sun to peak through and light up the horizon. You could be that person. All […]

Being tactful and nonjudgmental when broaching a touchy topic is not easy. Like most people at the giving end of critical feedback, your goal is to cultivate an ally not make an enemy. Ultimately, you want people to be open about their concerns especially when something is amiss. Withholding the truth sets up boundaries and […]

The ultimate goal of resolving differences is to reach a permanent solution. A quick fix won’t last unless it can be turned into a satisfying settlement. Given an opportunity to reflect on hastily resolved conflicts, people often admit dissatisfaction with their acceptance of a “feel good” solution. Their willingness to settle quickly is often based […]

Consider carefully what it means to “show more initiative.” Loosely defined terms like empowerment, delegation, accountability can also leave people confused and frustrated. To avoid misunderstanding use the following guidelines when discussing where to set the bar. Wait for directionExpecting people to do what they think is best is not always a good strategy when […]