Have you ever been told you are too soft as a leader? That you focus too much on the people. Whatever that means. Perhaps you have been accused of wearing your heart on your sleeve. And if you are a male leader, maybe the feedback came in the form of “You are not tough enough … 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
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
The curse of knowledge: What we cannot unsee The curse of knowledge is the challenge we face when we become aware of something, and our understanding of the world changes irrevocably. While we can learn and unlearn certain things, the knowledge we gain shapes our reality in ways that can be difficult to shift. … 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
Picture this: it is a typical Tuesday, and you, the ever-thoughtful leader, decide to lift the team’s spirits. You swing by the local bakery and pick up a cake. It is decadent—layers of chocolate, a swirl of cream, maybe even a hint of caramel. You march into the office like a hero, cake in hand, … 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