The late great Jim Rohn said, “we were made for enterprise, not ease.” I recognize the importance of work-life balance to mental health. So too, everyone needs downtime or time for “re-creation” – some more than others. I feel blessed to be able to look back through my long career; and reflect upon those who have had full and enriched lives. Those septuagenarians and octogenarians accomplished much, gave of themselves and contributed to the well-being of their families and communities, and discovered ways to not necessarily “do it all,” rather do a lot, and give a lot of love in the process. They were not self-centered, rather selfless.
In Thanksgiving
As the weather cools and the leaves rustle, we hasten to complete outside chores. The gatherings that took place under the sun’s rays, now move indoors to the warmth of a fireplace and a hot beverage. These friendly conversations become more meaningful as the season of Thanksgiving approaches.
As I pause to reflect, I am drawn to the relationships that add zest to my life and work. Thank you for the positive difference you make in our mutual work or conversations.
May you enjoy the blessings of this sacred season; and look forward with hope and joy to 2023.
Leader as Coach
I am hearing from more and more organizations that they want to see their evolving leaders become skilled coaches. Putting aside some of the formal jargon and aspects of the coaching profession, what they are really saying is, we want our managers and supervisors to properly develop others within the culture of expectations and behaviors that the organization deems valued and important.
Some organizations welcome passionate and robust dialogue; others might get uncomfortable with any dialogue where voices are raised. Some companies like to promote from within; and have well-defined career paths and succession plans. Others might prefer to promote from within, but communicate infrequently as to how to advance.
Consider the manager that runs their department like a well-oiled machine. Team members know what is expected, deliver great performance and service, and perhaps are cross-trained. The leader seems willing to share responsibility – even if it means the team member experiences an occasional failure by not quite meeting the performance standard.
Yet, I also hear from evolving supervisors and managers that they struggle with “letting go.” “I do it myself because I know it will get done right.” Does that sound familiar? Some say, “There is not enough time to delegate. It will take too long to get done.” Or, “Those two do not get along, it’s better if I assign the work to someone else.”
A few years ago, I joined my family on a holiday train ride. I was looking forward to this, not so much for the train, but more so to enjoy some friendly conversation. Who could imagine that there would be a lesson in leadership on a train ride? Wearing a ball cap with my favorite team logo, a guy in the seat behind me asked if I was a big fan. “Of course,” I replied. As we talked, he was proud to share that he is a fan as well; and that he was related by marriage to one of the team’s coaches. This coach was responsible for the development of an evolving leader and positional star on the team. We had fun re-living some of our favorite plays. So too, we commiserated over some of the plays that went awry. Then, I asked, “Why would the coach put this player in a position to fail in certain situations. He knows his strengths and weaknesses better than anyone.” His answer took me by surprise, “He doesn’t want to see him fail; he wants to see what he has learned, and what he is capable of becoming.”
Today, this coach is a respected coach in a major sports league. And, partly to his credit, the player has continued his development to the point where he is recognized as not only a great talent, but a leader on the team.
Perhaps, we can take a cue from the sports coach. S/he cannot get on the field during game time. Players must play, and coaches must be good at teaching. If leaders in other organizations worked with the same mindset, there would likely be greater professional development and advancement.
With Gratitude
The season of Thanksgiving encourages deep appreciation for the many blessings in our lives – the simple, the grand, and especially that which is God-given.
I am grateful for the joy you add to our shared work relationship
- whether it is something simple or a more complex project.
May this Thanksgiving be a fitting prelude to the Season of Peace, where we find the essence of stillness to enjoy the beauty of being together with family and friends.
Statistics, Culture and Leadership
It’s easy to second guess a decision after the fact. This is true in business, sports and life in general. As leaders and managers, we must also relate well with those on our team. In game 6 of the World Series between the L.A. Dodgers and Tampa Bay Rays, the unthinkable happened. Imagine that you are pitching in the 6th inning, leading 1-0, had only given up 2 hits, had only thrown 73 pitches, and had struck out 9 batters. Then, imagine that your manager walks to the mound, has few words with no conversation, and brings in a different pitcher.
Yes, we live in an age of analytics and algorithms. Surely, the statistics this season indicate that when any pitcher faces the opponent’s batting rotation for the third time, he is likely to be less effective.
But, this certainly appeared very different. That is the problem with relying solely on statistics. Whatever happened to human observation? In medicine, it is called, “clinical judgment.” It is the ability to reason and make informed decisions, based on both objective data AND subjective information. How many lives have been saved because a physician relied on more than a single statistic or number?
In this instance, the Dodgers were probably hoping that the manager would relieve this pitcher that was shutting them down; they had no answer for him.
In organizations, the leader has to find ways to connect with members of the team at the same time she is trying to win. Every organization has a culture. In baseball, it is NOT common practice to see a pitcher who is dominating, and not in trouble on a pitch count to be relieved. Players have their own views of fairness. We do not know how well the Rays’ manager communicated and navigated expectations prior to this incident. Even if he did, was the message understood and accepted? My guess is that even if the Rays would have held their lead and won the game, management still would have damaged the professional bond with pitcher Blake Snell and his teammates.
Yes, its only Sports, but, it would have been nice to at least see more of a conversation on the mound between manager and pitcher; and ultimately giving him the opportunity to continue the fight.
20 Things That COVID-19 Has Taught Us (Me)
1. Taking time out each day for little breaks makes a big difference in work productivity.
2. The technology that I put off learning – wish I started sooner; but am getting better.
3. I miss watching sports, but it is not that important.
4. Money still isn’t everything, but an emergency fund is, well, just what it sounds like.
5. Live-stream and online church services are nice, but not like being there.
6. Friendships are vitally important; not surface relationships, rather, meaningful connection with others.
7. Sleeping 7-8 hours per night really does make a difference, especially in times of added stress.
8. It is necessary to continuously strive to be creative and make every aspect of work and life better.
9. Many meetings CAN be done by video conference.
10. Walking is great, yet I miss swimming.
11. Having one’s own vehicle is better than public transportation. Yet, I suppose I do not need to make as many of those trips as I once thought.
12. Curbside grocery pick-up might become a bit more typical.
13. Takeout food is OK, but just like #5 above – not the same as being there.
14. Perhaps companies will find a way to become proficient at having a segment of remote or work-from home team members.
15. Hopefully, picnics and gatherings with family and friends will take-on a whole new meaning.
16. Time flies when you’re having fun. So too, time slows down when one experiences joy.
17. Reading for fun, not just for work or learning is cathartic.
18. In awe of the courageous essential healthcare workers and first-responders. Just like those in our military and armed forces, “Thank you for your service.”
19. Laugh more often - especially at myself.
20. Help lighten someone else’s burden.
Working From Home
For most, working from home will be a new experience. For some, it will be liberating; for others, it might be difficult. If you are required or asked to work from home, outlined below are some suggestions:
Safeguard confidential work; and protect the personal identity of individuals.
Be aware that that Agencies and industry groups have warned their member organizations, that the risk of cyber-security breaches is in high alert during this COVID-19 outbreak. Thus, ensure that all computer systems and connections have appropriate firewalls, encryption and use robust passwords. Follow all company computer and network systems requirements.
Reach out by phone or e-mail, as you normally would with any questions of your manager or a team member.
If you feel ill, monitor your symptoms per CDC or Department of Health guidelines, and call your primary care physician as you deem appropriate.
Let your employer know if you will miss any work time or require time off for any reason.
Find a comfortable space that you feel comfortable working in.
Likewise, find a comfortable chair.
If possible, alternate between sitting and standing every 20-30 minutes.
Eliminate distractions as best as possible.
Pay attention to what situations enable you to be most productive, and those situations that erode productivity.
Eat healthy snacks.
Take a walk outside on a lunch or break.
Take a stretch break
Remember, your employer trusts you to work safely, wisely and honestly. .
In a Time Like This...
we quickly realize how interconnected we really are. Our economy is not just about our physical resources and wealth. No doubt, that is extremely important, as that will help find a cure and vaccine. Yet, we quickly realize in times of crises, as our grandparents, great grandparents and great-great grandparents discovered, that we consider the needs of others in our churches, neighborhood and community-at large. As difficult as it is, when we pause for just a few minutes, and stop worrying about self and seek to brighten someone else’s day, we will both experience tremendous joy.
May we be given the fortitude and hope for healing, improved relationships and a strong economy.
“ You whom I have taken from the ends of the earth,
And called from its farthest regions,
And said to you,
‘You are my servant,
I have chosen you and have not cast you away:
Fear not, for I am with you:
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
-- Isaiah 41:9-10
Music and the Soul
Today, I was pulled from my work by the sweet song of a Blue jay outside my office window. How ironic, as I recalled the quote-of-the-day in my planner from Berthold Auerbach - “Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”
"Geese Have Dreams"
“Geese have dreams.” What an unusual presumption. But, that is exactly what Inge said to Olaf, her husband-to-be when he was consumed with work, yet, without vision. In the movie, Sweet Land, Olaf, a hard-working and pragmatic man could not comprehend a bird having dreams. To him, geese simply get the call to fly south and obey the call to do so.
That was a deal-breaker for Inge, of German heritage who fled her country with improper documentation, post-World War I to settle in this rural Minnesota community in hopes of building a future.
Olaf, seeing the pain and conviction in the strong-willed and courageous Inge, could not help but hear her cry and understand her anguish. He verbalized, “Geese have dreams.”
May you work hard AND follow your dreams.
What I Learned from the Best Time Managers
A common phrase and lament I often hear is “I’m so busy.” Did you ever envy someone you thought seemed to have it all together and was a great time manager? I asked a client, CEO a few years ago, “What do you struggle the most with respect to time management?” Without hesitating, he said, “I worry about keeping it all together.” I was floored because I would have never thought that would be so with this executive.
Having been blessed to work with many organizations and individual clients over the years, I thought it might be helpful to share some of the best time management lessons and ideas. Perhaps, some will sound familiar. So too, perhaps you will gather a gem that lightens your daily burden a bit:
For effective and maximum time management, spend as much time doing things that are important, yet, not urgent. These activities have the greatest potential for adding tremendous value to your work and the organization. This might include, learning, planning, preparing, prevention, relationship-building, networking, meaningful leisure (“re-creation”). Try to spend as much as 50% of your time in these activities. You are more likely to prevent the so-called “firefighting,” or crises that can eat-up way too much of one’s time.
If possible, try to delegate or delay activities that are urgent, but not extremely important. Recent studies – both formal and informal show that the most productive people only check e-mail a few times a day. If that is possible, adopt that practice.
Recognize that everyone has 24 hours in a day – no more, no less. The person you might envy who seems to accomplish much, neither uses trickery, nor is super-human. S/he is simply very self-disciplined and sticks to what is important. It all starts with having the right attitude.
Recognize that all resources are finite. The effective manager or supervisor seeks to maintain a margin with respect to time so that s/he has room to adjust to the unexpected as opposed to constantly working against the limitation with no room to move.
Avoid letting regrets weigh you down. We all have regrets. This includes wasted time or opportunity. Look at each minute as a new opportunity. Resolve to get better. Learn from the past; but be sure to let go of the past.
Get an early start. Do not waste time taking a coffee break at the start of your day. Take your break after you have accomplished a goal and at the appropriate time.
Develop a results habit. It is not good enough to think about activities. What do you plan to achieve? Begin with that in mind – whether it is making a phone call, preparing for a meeting, sending an e-mail, or training. Is it consistent with your vision?
Plan your week ahead. Ensure that you look at your schedule often to stay on track.
At the end of your workday, write-out and/or use your calendar to schedule tasks and projects for the next day. Try to fill as much of your day with things that are “not urgent, yet important.” Put a priority on each item. And, think ahead as to how much time you are going to devote to each item. It is too easy to underestimate how much time you will need. This leads to frustration and inefficiency. Build in a bit of a cushion to account for any surprises.
Try to carve out large blocks of time to work on a project. Get as much done as possible before moving from one task to another. Bouncing around creates inefficiencies caused by re-thinking, starting up again, and in some cases re-visiting what has already been done. In the late 1800s, Andrew Carnegie, business magnate and philanthropist, paid a consultant for this same idea. Carnegie asked the consultant how much he owed him, and the consultant responded saying, “Pay me whatever you think it is worth.” Carnegie paid him $10,000. In today’s dollars, that would be more than $275,000.
Ask yourself multiple times throughout the day, “What is the best use of my time, right now?” This serves as a constant checkpoint. Early on, you will likely find yourself making frequent adjustments. The more you do this, the more you will discover that you are getting better at managing time and your priorities.
If possible, work the mind when the body is tired, and work the body when the mind is tired. Take care of yourself. Rest as needed.
And, perhaps the greatest lesson learned is to seek to align how you spend your time with your values and goals – both professionally and personally. You will not only be more productive, you will experience tremendous joy.
Listening Leaders
There are various leadership models, which have been validated over the years. I am particularly drawn to the Everything DiSC 363® for Leaders Model, which identifies many practices as part of eight (8) key approaches, in particular: Pioneering, Energizing, Affirming, Inclusive, Humble, Deliberate, Resolute and Commanding.
1. Pioneering: A pioneering leader encourages the group to think creatively about their business decisions and take chances on new opportunities.
2. Energizing: An energizing leader builds enthusiasm for the group’s goals and develops a wide network of professional connections.
3. Affirming: An affirming leader is approachable and helps people feel good about their work environment and their contributions.
4. Inclusive: An inclusive leader gets a variety of people involved in the decision-making process and shows concern for their opinions and feelings.
5. Humble: A humble leader maintains a modest, composed demeanor and can be relied upon to make decisions fairly.
6. Deliberate: A deliberate leader provides a sense of stability for the group by communicating clearly and ensuring that decisions are made carefully.
7. Resolute: A resolute leader is highly determined and persistent. They have the inner strength to give people courage during hard times. They tend to be natural skeptics; and they like to see things done the “right” way.
8. Commanding: A commanding leader takes charge of situations with confidence and urges others to get results.
Listen and Know the Status of the Work and Team
It might be safe to say that the best leaders are not simply effective communicators – they are likely good listeners.
Research reveals that some leaders, based upon their natural style listen more effectively than others. Yet, the leader who is commanding or resolute is not necessarily a bad listener. She/he might have a great sense of the “pulse” of the team.
An effective leader can be counted on to know what is going on in his/her team. This includes a willingness to listen to the status of projects, the successes and challenges, the budget and utilization of staff, and the level of customer satisfaction, to name a few.
So too, it is important to have a sense of the team’s morale? Are team members feeling stressed or tired? If so, what will you as the leader do about it to show that you understand where they are at?
It has been said that nearly all people want the same three things – to be happy, to experience freedom, and to enjoy peace of mind. As leaders, it is uncanny how listening to others - helping them to be happy, giving them the freedom to do their work in creative ways, and fostering their peace will be contagious and spread to others including customers and other stakeholders.
In Thanksgiving
Throughout the year, and especially at Thanksgiving, I am grateful for the opportunity to share our work experiences. Know that you add joy and meaning to our collective work and my life.
Wherever this Season finds you, may you have enough of the spiritual and material to do that which you find worthy and wholesome.
And, may the light of the new-born Christ shine bright in your heart and in those you call family and neighbors.
Time Management: a new start for a new year
A new year is an ideal time to start anew, revisit what we do well, and perhaps develop better habits. This is especially true with managing one’s time. We should avoid envying others who seem to be capable of doing it all. In reality, they have the same 24 hours in a day that you and I have.
For years, I admired the CEO of a regional company for his apparent ability to manage multiple priorities – both in his business and personal life. So, I asked him what the greatest challenge is he faces; his response surprised me, “I worry about keeping it all together.” When asked to elaborate, he shared that he fears letting himself and others down because of all the obligations and commitments that accompany being the CEO of a major employer.
It might be helpful to ponder what St. Paul says in his letter to the Ephesians (5:15-20). When reading this, it becomes abundantly clear that time management can best be thought of as self-management. We should avoid the things that are harmful, hurtful and wasteful. So too, he concludes, “giving thanks for all things…” There must be something helpful, and perhaps sacred about doing one’s best to maintain a sense of gratitude.
Yet, because we are human, we will sometimes squander time. We can get pulled in the direction of checking social media, the news, sports scores, stock results, or some other diversion or unnecessary concern.
Brother David Steindl-Rast reminds us that every second is a new opportunity. If you wasted the previous second, move beyond and start anew. Do not squander that second. It might be the best opportunity you have.
In Thanksgiving
As we enter the Season of Thanksgiving, we are heartened by this annual tradition. The rituals of life, nature and those that exist in culture can seem simple and mundane. Yet, following these sacred redundancies often add meaning and significance to such special traditions.
It is the intentional and collective energy of all, each doing the ordinary again and again that creates lasting memories - shopping, tidying, making, baking, caroling, praying/meditating, and giving.
Thank you for the opportunity to share in the rituals and seasons of work and service.
May you and your family enjoy peace, health and happiness this Thanksgiving season and in the year ahead.
Seasonal Message
As we immerse ourselves in the season of thanksgiving and all that is merry, we relish the beauty and splendor that abounds. Together with family, friends and colleagues, we share in this collective joy.
Each year brings a new set of experiences, yet what remains constant is my appreciation for your trust. It is such a delight working with all of you.
May you fully experience the goodness and light of the Season.
Leadership is Still an Art
Every once in a while, we come across a book that has a simple, powerful message that stands the test of time. I first read, Leadership is an Art shortly after it came out in the late 1980s. Max DePree served as CEO for Herman Miller, Inc., the office furniture company founded by his Dad.
Max DePree felt strongly that our beliefs shape practice and behavior. He wisely noticed the uncanny relationship, and perhaps causal relationship of beliefs affect on corporate culture, character, relationships and business systems, success, and results.
I have probably read and reread this book a few times since 1989. I did so again last week. “You can read this book quickly, but I hope you cannot finish this book quickly,’ Mr. DePree penned. And, I would say that I am grateful to him for such wisdom. Mr. DePree encourages the reader and leader to put into practice the ideas set forth. He gives concrete examples of leadership as an art throughout the book.
Over the years, his wisdom has served as an inspiration to me as I made leadership and business decisions. Mr. DePree is a master of asking the right questions. I have incorporated many of his thoughts on performance reviews of leaders with only slight modification to fit the appropriate situation.
The thoughtful leader cannot help but ponder how his/her own leadership might be improved by reading or rereading Leadership is an Art. Starting a new year is a great time to revisit one’s leadership style – what works and how to be a better person and leader.
In Thanksgiving
Amidst such spectacle of light and hues, the Fall breeze whispers a reminder of the approaching season of peace and thanksgiving. Our senses heighten as our awareness of nature’s physical beauty aligns with the spiritual.
We stop and reflect upon this balance, and recognize the awesome responsibility to be stewards of our many gifts, treasures and blessings.
Let us appreciate the brightness we bring to each other and those we serve.
May you and your loved ones experience peace, hope and tremendous joy this season and the seasons ahead.
The Interim Leader
Placing an “interim” label on an executive can result in an extremely unsettled atmosphere within an organization. Employees seek direction but might not know who to ask for guidance. They might become uncomfortable with making important decisions. This sense of uncertainty can extend to stakeholders and shareholders as well. All interested parties want to know that “the ship is heading in the right direction,” and that it has a captain. That said, the “interim” option is sometimes the best short-term solution.
When there is a sudden departure or loss of an executive or C-suite leader, the prepared organization executes its succession plan to address the gap. It might miss a beat, yet it moves confidently toward its intended direction and goals.
For companies without a succession plan, or with a plan that is outdated or hastily crafted, the management team and/or Board must move deftly and swiftly to put the proper person, and sometimes structure in place.
Naming a leader/manager on an interim basis presents the Board or management team some options:
a) It is an opportunity to evaluate the newly-named executive’s performance in the new role. If the position reports to the Board, the Board can assess the relations with the Board as well as with colleagues. Does this leader instill a sense of confidence moving forward?
If all goes well, the interim title can be removed, and the executive can take comfort in being named the qualified successor to the previous job-holder.
b) It is a temporary, stop-gap measure that permits the organization leadership to openly or quietly find a replacement for the Interim.
In professional sports, those designated as “interim” are much less likely to later be named coach or manager of that same organization. Looking at the track record and life of a head coach, one might wonder why more opportunities are not offered to the interim. Yet, fan (stakeholder) sentiment is arguably an important consideration in such a decision.
c) The Board or management team simply needs time to pick itself up and evaluate, not necessarily the acting individual, but the whole business – strategic and operating plans, organization structure, market opportunities and risks, financial picture, customer relations, and changes in the industry.
Or, the company might need time to get through a difficult period. And, it is not an ideal time to make too many changes right away.
Sometimes, a succession plan will name a person as an Interim to pursue any one of the above-listed options. What are some things a Board or management team can consider when naming an Interim? Here are some considerations:
- Character and integrity
- Knowledge of the business and industry
- Commitment to existing strategic and operating plans
- Leadership and/or management skills
- Respect of internal colleagues
- Respect of the Board
- Track record
- Ability to navigate change and uncertainty
- Name recognition and visibility with outside stakeholders
- Presence in the community at-large.
Given human nature what it is, with most people not feeling comfortable with uncertainty, it is vital that the Interim provide stakeholders with a sense of calm and confidence that the business is on track. If not, the leadership team will want to pursue an accelerated, albeit thorough search for a qualified successor.
Recently, Valeant Pharmaceuticals International and United Continental Holdings named interim leaders while the organizations’ regular leaders convalesce due to illness.
Getting the decision for an interim is difficult… and making the right hire for a full-time replacement can be doubly difficult. These weighty decisions are perhaps the most important decisions the Board will make affecting all stakeholders – both short and long term.
Stand For A Cause
Perhaps you feel that these are perilous times. Yet, our grandparents and ancestors faced many hardships - some despicable. As I ponder this, I cannot help but think how many voices were squelched or demonized for speaking the truth. History is replete with examples of such.
I still believe there are good people who seek to do what is right, simply because it is right and they have no other motive than to live honorably, selflessly and lovingly.