My Library
People are my library, my writing inspired by what I learn: ideas, inspiration, wisdom, and sometimes some eclectic whimsy for good measure, all centred around #OpenLeadership. At the heart of all of this is that I write to share learnings and to discover my thoughts. Over the years i have written (mostly) daily, over 2000 posts and 1,000,000 words (that last part blows my mind, tbh!). Enjoy browsing.
Wisdom principles and practices
Yesterday I wrote about how "Sometimes a line really catches my attention". Today am sharing a list from my friend Chip Conley of his 14 "Wisdom Principles and Practices". Chip and I think alike in many ways. I've learned much from listening to him ("Knowledge Speaks,...
Wisdom principles and practices
Today am sharing a list from my friend Chip Conley of his 14 “Wisdom Principles and Practices”.
“WHY” and how Kaizen can fail you
A recent conversation about Kaizen prompts me to highlight what it truly takes for it to work for you and your business. "Kaizen" is the Japanese word for Improvement. In industry, it is used to mean continuous improvement. It was pioneered by Toyota, but, as business...
Who are you?
Establishing your business and personal identity can be a complicated process. Who are you? Simple question, but identity can have many elements. Imagine you lead a business where lack of collaboration and trust is a constant struggle. "Who are you?" is a great...
Taking time to recharge
Remember to take time to recharge and rest during your busy life. Swans and cygnets in a London park this weekend The last two weeks have been pretty intense for me, both with lots of work and also with the death of someone close then their funeral. I thought this...
Routine + Rhythm + Repetition = Resiliency
Routine + Rhythm + Repetition = Resiliency In collaborating with a client on a project where we are moving from the "WHY" and "WHAT" to the choice of "HOWs" that will be actioned to action the Cascading Leadership model of "Align, Engage, Enrol" for their...
Patient capital – is not long term enough
"I don't like the term patient capital, that is not long term enough" This line was spoken last night at dinner by legendary Scots investor Sir Angus Grossart. He then noted that he is a long term investor and that he feels he thinks longer term than Warren Buffett. I...
Put the oxygen mask on yourself first
Meeting interesting and inspiring people, listening, being present to them, seeing where I can help them. This is my work, this is what I love to do. This also fills my batter, brings me energy as I (hopefully) bring energy and inspiration to them to. I'm generally...
Too tired to produce quality work
In working with leaders I often support them around managing their energy, which includes their workload and looking to balance that. I find myself typing this at the end of a day which was way too overloaded with work, yet needing to keep my commitment to myself to...
Repetition, repetition, repetition
Today, a reflection on the value of repetition As I approach 600 daily posts here, I recognise that I repeat themes in my writing. Though the stories, perspectives, viewpoints, examples may vary, the themes remain the same. Repetition, though, can have tremendous...
The map is not the territory
from a wonderfully indepth powerpoint deck by Cristiano Damiani Vasconcellos Language is powerful. Stunningly so. The language we use about ourselves and others can fundamentally change our perception of reality. Tip of the hat (or, as cyclists say, chapeau) to David...
Surround yourself with people smarter than you are
Most of you will know this quote from Steve Jobs, one of several respected business leaders who will give advice along the lines of: Surround yourself with people smarter than you are Today though, let me link this to the idea of giving and receiving advice. Recently...
Turn the coin over
"Listen with the intent to understand, not to reply" ~ Stephen Covey Great advice from Master Covey, but it is a deeply ingrained human behaviour to listen, have an idea, then cut in, interject, say something. A mentor of mine taught me once that when I am listening...
Do the people in your circle inspire you?
Just over a month ago a young entrepreneur was killed outside a store he ran aimed at providing inspiration for his community. I didn't know of him, his music, his focus on lifting up his community. However, when his death made the news, I looked him up and this quote...