To understand why we resist change, it is useful to acknowledge that humans are creatures of habit, and that habits are learned behaviors with predictable outcomes. By creating change, we force those involved – including ourselves – to confront the unknown and “unlearn” things that we previously accepted as producing desirable results. Even if the [...]
Leaders are remembered for their best and worst judgment calls, especially when the stakes are high, information is limited and the correct call is far from obvious. In the face of ambiguity, uncertainty and conflicting demands, the quality of a leader’s judgment and decision making determines the entire organization’s fate. That’s why leadership [...]
Most companies I know spend a large portion of their budgets on driving new business through the front door. Far fewer spend even a fraction as much in a directed effort to avoid having those precious customers walk out the back door. The prevailing assumption is that by providing pretty good service and having [...]
“Our deeds follow us, and what we have been makes us what we are.” – John Dykes Although accountability has various definitions, it is typically used to describe personal responsibility for getting something done. Accountability is an essential element of focused accomplishment and, therefore, of the business world. Successful organizations build systems that encourage accountability [...]
(How to Get Your Organization to Run Smoothly Without You) Ahh, Summer. Summer means barbecues, swimming, baseball games, camping, road trips, and lazy days in the sun. That’s what summer is all about, isn’t it? Well, for some, that’s just wishful thinking. Many business owners are so tied to their companies that they can’t step [...]
