You think you’re getting the truth, but you’re probably not—at least not the full truth, the unfiltered truth, or the kind of truth that would actually change how you lead. Because if you’re in a leadership role, people are filtering what they say to you. It’s not a question of if. It’s a question of …
The Risk of Speaking Up: What It Costs to Tell You the Truth Read More »
You explained it clearly. You walked through the reasoning. You answered their questions. When you looked around the room (or the Zoom/Teams call), people nodded. So why, days or weeks later, does if feel like things are moving at a snail’s pace? Why do you feel like you’re still the one poking and prodding to …
They Heard You, They Nodded…So Why Aren’t Things Moving Like They Should? Read More »
The Real Challenge of Speaking Up Having good ideas isn’t enough. Being right isn’t enough. And sadly, working hard, assuming your contributions will naturally be recognized is definitely not enough. If you’ve ever spoken up in a meeting only to be ignored until someone else repeats your idea and gets credit, then you know exactly …
Influence with Intention: The Art of Strategic Advocacy Read More »
I think most people would agree work—and life, in general—would be a whole lot easier if we didn’t have to deal with difficult people, but that’s not the world we live in. Honestly, if there was never any friction, things would be boring. Growth comes from challenge, but that doesn’t make it any less frustrating …
Dealing with Difficult People at Work: The Life Maximizer Way Read More »
Ever had one of those days where work feels like an uphill battle? Deadlines slip, projects veer off track, and frustration builds. At first glance, the easy answer—the one most people lean on—is “miscommunication.” However, let’s be honest—that’s a cop-out. The real issue isn’t just that people aren’t hearing each other. Instead, it’s that they …
Fixing Misalignment at Work: The Leadership Skill That Never Gets Enough Credit Read More »
A few years ago, one of my close friends asked me why I do the work I do—interpersonal communication, leadership development, diplomacy training, strategy—and I told her it’s because I want people to be better leaders. She looked at me and said, “Duh! Donnie, I got that, but why? Why? WHY?” After fumbling through four …
Why I Teach Intentional Leadership: Fewer Doormats, Fewer Assholes Read More »
I think, for many people, genuine trust feels rare these days. Sadly, as a whole, I think we’ve created a lot of low-trust relationships, workplace environments, and communities over time as a result of the negative events we see in our communities / the world, the events that have taken place in our own lives, …
Genuine Trust…Will We Ever Get It Back In Our Companies or Communities? Read More »
Are you a leader who sometimes hates or feels uncomfortable with conflict? Conflict is an inevitable part of any workplace or team, and at times, it’s needed. That said, if it doesn’t get resolved quickly, successfully, or with care, it can fester and lead to additional problems down the line, resulting in a work environment …
How To Resolve Conflict Before You Drive Away Top Talent Read More »
Your way of thinking is an asset. A few weeks ago, I was working with a client who shared with me his frustration about not being able to communicate his ideas with his team and his leaders in an easy-to-understand way. He said, “Donnie, I can see all the pieces and have clarity about the …
For My Entrepreneurs & Leaders Who Are Non-linear Thinkers… Read More »
When you’re in conversation with individuals from your team, your customers, or your community, how (and why) are you listening? “Are you listening to control or listening to connect?” ~ Dan Warmenhoven, Former Chairman & CEO, NetApp For business and community leaders, you have to get buy-in to mobilize your organization or your movement. When …
