In our fast-paced work environment, it can become easy to see people as agents to get things done (cogs in a wheel). You may even see people as a means to an end rather than as the unique individuals that they are. Here is a little test: Do you make it a point to learn and remember the names of…
Abrasive leadership is dangerous because it fosters a fear-driven work culture that tears down trust and can cause bitterness or resentment towards you.
Self-deception can be a central leadership problem.
Have you ever heard of SMART goals? The concept of SMART goals is one that I teach in my webinars. And the great news is that the concept applies as much to New Year’s resolutions as it does to long-term goals. So let’s quickly break down what SMART resolutions would look like: S – Specific: Goals must be specific and…
Do you already feel overwhelmed and pressured to make New Years resolutions? Historically, do you usually fall short in carrying out your lofty resolutions? Don’t feel bad because most of us do. And more importantly, it’s not a reason to quit! When talking about resolutions one thing sticks out in my mind…. As a former SEAL, many people ask me for…
Sheep are stupid animals. Did you know that sheep will only eat what is literally right in front of them? They don’t even look around to see where the best food is! Shepherds have an important task of making sure their sheep don’t just wander off and have cleverly discovered that by putting a bell around one sheep’s neck, the…
I passed a hearse today while driving on the highway in my Jeep Wrangler and it got me thinking about death. Now granted, as a former Navy SEAL, I have probably thought about death more than the average 39-year-old. Each SEAL operator has to come to terms with what death looks like and the possibility that each mission could be…
We live in a day and age where most people talk about what they are “against” not what they’re “for”. For the most part, we are a culture that blazes the “I don’t like ___” trail while giving very little consideration to what we do like. This adversarial approach tends to pit us against others and stirs up unnecessary conflict.…
In my last post, I talked about a breathing exercise we can all use to reduce stress. In this post, I want to give one more example called Progressive Relaxation. Here’s how: Sit in a comfortable position, with your head supported. Start breathing slowly and deeply. Let your entire body relax. Release all tension and try to visualize your body…
Over the last month I have talked about positive affect and optimism, but what good is talk without something practical to “do” about it? First, I want to challenge you to think of at least three things you do to minimize stress in your life (walking, working out, or other appropriate distractions). Practice these often. But I also want to…
