Getting Wiser (Part 4): Embrace Vulnerability
If there is a holy grail of leadership (especially for men), embracing vulnerability might be it. Vulnerability means being open about one’s weaknesses and struggles, and empathetic to others’ when they are vulnerable. It is not always easy to be vulnerable, and especially so for people in positions of leadership. Why is vulnerability so difficult? […]
Getting Wiser (Part 3): Look for the Good
“Mankind will not perish for want of information; but only for want of appreciation.” -Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel I used to spend a lot of time in airplanes and hotels, neither of which are places where humans tend to flourish. Travel days always felt frustrating and stressful… until I invented a simple, yet game-changing practice […]
Getting Wiser (Part 2): Partner with the “Unwanted”
At least 50% of surprises that come my way are unwanted by me. I know they are unwanted because my inner judge immediately labels them as dangerous, or bad, or inconvenient. I quickly double down on a conviction that the unwanted people or circumstances: 1) are being done “to me”, and 2) are the impediment […]
Getting Wiser (Part 1): Engage in Self-Reflection
During her first coaching session with me, a CEO client recently declared, “I don’t spend a minute looking backward. I’m all about the future.” My reply: “Well, then you’re not even close to reaching your full potential.” To her credit she didn’t fire me. Instead she laughed and asked me to explain. Here’s a version […]