We have an enormous tendency to confuse confidence with competence. We want someone who can do the work, but we tend to trust the person that looks the part. Doing so is inherently dangerous, and points to some significant biases we may not even recognize.
As Authentic As I Wanna Be
We have an authenticity problem. More specifically, we have a belief that we are supposed to be exactly who we are, all the time. There is compelling evidence that suggests that perception is exactly wrong.
It Depends
The most common answer to questions that I provide is, “It depends.” Not because I’m being difficult; because it’s the truth. Yet I find I dislike this answer as much as the next person. Nonetheless, it is what opens the doorway to opportunity and possibility.
Busy vs. Engaged
There is a seductive appeal to being busy. It creates the illusion of engaged, involved, vital. It can also be a sign that we are avoiding what matters. Taken to extremes, we are overwhelmed with work and unable to find meaning.
Problems Of Output Are A Problem Of Input
We all hit that point where we hit a wall creatively. We are drained, spent, wrung dry. The challenge is how to recognize it and what to do about it. Finding wellsprings of creativity in the desert of our souls.
Team Building – Not Separate, Not Different, Not Optional
Many, many sins have been committed in the name of “team building.” All too often we associate team building exercises with awkward, superficial and embarrassing interactions. And much of what is done simply doesn’t work. Team building is often irrelevant, but building the team is critical.