Feeling uncomfortable is about as welcome by most as a pair of ill-fitting shoes. Potentially embarrassing situations, opportunities for failure, or honest conversations where discomfort is likely often go avoided. But here's the truth: They are actually … [Read more...]
My Unexpected Gift, by Deanna Chesley
I am reading the book E2 (squared) by Pam Grout. This book was recommended by Dr. Wayne Dyer. I like him and the things he talks about and shares, so I decided to buy the book. It explains and details nine do-it-yourself energy experiments that prove your … [Read more...]
Moment of Accounting
What are the mechanics of accountability? Accountability requires what I call a "moment of accounting". A moment of accounting can be a quarterly review, a sidebar conversation, a discussion with a peer, a salary negotiation, a status report, the … [Read more...]
Version One is Better than Version None
I have a favorite saying: Version One is always better than Version None. This is particularly true in a fast-paced, high-growth company environment. The idea is to get something out there into the value stream. Sometimes this is called a MVP - Minimum … [Read more...]
Push, Pull
I was recently in a car driving from San Francisco to Palo Alto with Infusionsoft CEO, Clate Mask and our CFO, Sam Blackham. Sam and Clate were both telling me how terrific our new senior director of finance was doing. I said "Great, what's so special … [Read more...]
Care Warps Time
Care can warp time. Recently, I met an incredible man who had been the CEO of seven different public companies. The thing that struck me the most is how much he cared about people. I thought to myself, 'where does he ever find time?' He repeatedly told … [Read more...]
4 Principles of Effective Listening
Are you a good listener? Effective leaders are known for their ability to be great listeners. I've learned over the years that without following these principles, one can look like a good listener (diligently going through the motions), but at its core … [Read more...]
Lose Your Cool, Lose Your Case… Every Time
You lose your cool, you lose your case… every time. When I was young attorney I was asked by one of my law firm partners to argue a motion in federal court. I was excited to deepen my experience in federal court and it made me feel valued that one of the … [Read more...]
Leadership and Hitting Deadlines
Every Monday I get 2-Minute Monday Motivators emails from a motivational business coach named Rick Houcek. These motivational notes are terrific and I encourage everyone to signup for the emails. The one I received today focused on hitting deadlines and … [Read more...]
Three Tips for High School Students Interested in Careers in Technolgy:
My friend Ramon Ray is a consummate technologist. He is creative, enthusiastic, passionate about leveraging technology to help small businesses succeed and a true geek at heart. Ramon sent me quick note explaining that he had been asked to speak to high … [Read more...]