We love a lone genius story. The CEO who “saved” a company. The leader who “single-handedly” changed everything. The visionary who defied the odds. These stories are compelling: clear, dramatic, easy to digest. But they are rarely the full picture. The truth is, no one does it alone. Leadership is not a solo act; it … Read more
Fake it till you make it. It is one of the most widely repeated pieces of career advice. Smile with confidence, nod along, and pretend you know what you are doing until you actually do. It might work if you are learning a new skill or trying to overcome self-doubt in a low-stakes situation. But … Read more
There is a quote by James Hollis (a prominent Jungian psychoanalyst) that I love and keep coming back to: “It’s the nature of nature to change.” I love it personally, but I also love it because it resonates deeply with the realities of leadership. Whether in life or business, change is not an option, it … Read more
If you have ever played a game of poker (not a game I play) or watched a detective show (Detective Columbo is a favourite of mine), you would have probably heard the term “tell.” In poker, a tell is a subtle hint—often unconscious—that reveals what a player is thinking or feeling. It could be a … Read more
Have you ever sat through a training course, listening intently, only to find that one thing truly resonated? That one line—seemingly offhand yet profound—can reshape your approach in ways you did not expect. I have been there. A few years back, during yet another sales methodology course (I have lost count of how many over … Read more
When was the last time you were taken by surprise by a simple yet profound realisation about the people around you—a genuine understanding that each person you encounter carries a life as complex and vivid as your own? Their experiences, struggles, and joys create a tapestry as intricate as yours, woven with challenges and triumphs … Read more
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant dream—it is a reality, already shaping how we work, think, and express creativity. As exciting as this transformation is, it raises some important questions for leaders. I love the potential of AI. I gave a presentation on what I wanted from AI seven years ago (see here … Read more
Last week, a high-profile technology company made headlines by mandating a total return to the office five days a week starting next year. The buzz is that many organisations are doing the same or have already started. The rationale? Companies want people to reconnect in person to boost morale and team engagement. Yet, some view … Read more
When you think about outstanding leadership, what comes to mind? Decisive decision-making, strategic thinking, or the ability to motivate a team through thick and thin? All important, sure. However, one quality that quietly underpins the most effective leaders yet is often overlooked is a positive mindset. And no, I do not mean the cliché of … Read more
On Monday, I attended an industry event where the speaker was asked a straightforward question: “What is your vision for the organisation?” His response was interesting. Rather than offering a bold new vision, he acknowledged that the organisation already had a vision and did not need to reinvent it just because he was now at … Read more