Are you obsessed by “productivity?” I think I might be. To me, productivity is not about being a workaholic. It is about getting the most out of every second of every minute in the day. That way I can get my work done more quickly and have time for fun (as I wonder if I will ever see a live baseball game again). Many of us want to be as productive as we can. But we … [Read more...] about Productivity vs Creativity
vision-setting
You Can’t Announce a Shared Vision
More than one enthusiastic new CEO has told me “I plan to announce my vision at our first staff meeting” (usually said with a grin - sort of like “announce my presence with authority”). My general rule is that I don’t provide advice unless asked, and when I have been asked by a new CEO about this plan I have said “Well, you might consider holding off on that for a while.” … [Read more...] about You Can’t Announce a Shared Vision
Don’t Throw Away Your Shot
The popular “leading change” approach created by Dr. John Kotter – which I have been teaching for years – is focused on initiating a change with a “sense of urgency” and a Vision for the future. I get that and agree, but I am going to add something to his model the next time I teach it – and that is balancing Urgency with Timing. If you have a sense of urgency about a … [Read more...] about Don’t Throw Away Your Shot
Audacious Visions
Your organization may be going through some very challenging times right now. In the midst of uncertainty and challenge, a Vision for the future is ever more important. The most powerful Visions are developed by asking stakeholders about their dreams and aspirations, and then crafting a Vision that reflects that and inspires them. Visions look beyond the current … [Read more...] about Audacious Visions
Roar into the ‘20s with a Growth Mindset!
One of our team members had set up a fun lunch activity just before Halloween – decorating pumpkins! My feeling: “I’m just no good at this.” With this reaction, I was exhibiting my Fixed Mindset about my skills and abilities when it comes to Art. I would have to say that I have probably had that mindset since about first grade! In her excellent book, Mindset, which I … [Read more...] about Roar into the ‘20s with a Growth Mindset!