As the new year approaches, leaders should be evaluating what changes they will implement. Here are a few ideas.
Volunteer and Non-profit work: Being a leader in the volunteer realm is much different than in the corportate world. These role will expand your leadership talents. Toastmasters International puts a lot of emphasis on developing as a leader, with connections to volunteer settings.
Leadership Training Course: There are many great programs designed to help leaders improve their outlook and performance. Dale Carnegie Training provide numerous courses across the county in leaders and team building. Also check with your local university.
Connect with the people you need to grow: Will a mentor help you reflect on your decisions as a leader? Can you attract someone who is a complement to your skills and strenghts?
Better communication: Are you using all possible communication channels? Not just for routine sharing of information, but also for building personal relations. One of John Maxwell's law of leadership is to touch a heart before asking for a hand. Have you made a sincere phone call or sent a handwritten note lately? Is your first conversation with someone each day on a personal note or a professional matter?
Start a weekly leadership journal: Each week, reflect back on a decision you made. Evaluated it from a leadership perspective. Was that the best decision for the organization? Was that the best decision for the long term? Was that the best decision for thost peopel involved. Most decisions have a down side; how was the downside address. Did someone feel that they "lost"?
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Barely know the leader exists--Lao Tzu
There is a good quote by Lao Tzu that reflects on some aspects of servant leadership.
Some leaders like to be out in front and highly visible. This approach works well in certain situations. Steve Jobs at Apple took this role. However, for every Steve Jobs, there are ten other leaders who do their jobs in an outstanding way from behind the curtain. They help their teams prepare, execute, adjust, and grow.
Mentoring is a leadership role where success is measured by how someone else succeeds. Someone else will take the reward and stand in the spotlight at the end of the day even though the mentor was critical to the development process.
A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.
Some leaders like to be out in front and highly visible. This approach works well in certain situations. Steve Jobs at Apple took this role. However, for every Steve Jobs, there are ten other leaders who do their jobs in an outstanding way from behind the curtain. They help their teams prepare, execute, adjust, and grow.
Mentoring is a leadership role where success is measured by how someone else succeeds. Someone else will take the reward and stand in the spotlight at the end of the day even though the mentor was critical to the development process.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Two Hats of a Quarterback: Robot and Artist--Cousins
Quite often a leader must wear two hats: one of a leader and change manager, and another of a manager and system stabilizer.
Kirk Cousins, the backup quarterback for the Washington Redskins, recently applied these two roles to the game of football.
“One of the things I’ve learned about being a quarterback is that it’s a balance between being a robot and being an artist."
Quarterbacks, like other organizations leaders, put a lot of time into planning, preparation, practice, and review. Practicing the basics so that many plays are robotic. They also know when to step out of the box, take a risk, and make a play that will be celebrated as artistic. (Celebrated if it works.)
A link to the Public Radio comment is here: http://www.npr.org/2012/12/16/167374520/college-footballs-coaching-carousel-in-full-effect
A link on NBC Sports to a discussion of Cousins's comment is here: http://irish.nbcsports.com/2012/12/10/kellys-talking-points-translate-to-pro-football/
Kirk Cousins, the backup quarterback for the Washington Redskins, recently applied these two roles to the game of football.
“One of the things I’ve learned about being a quarterback is that it’s a balance between being a robot and being an artist."
Quarterbacks, like other organizations leaders, put a lot of time into planning, preparation, practice, and review. Practicing the basics so that many plays are robotic. They also know when to step out of the box, take a risk, and make a play that will be celebrated as artistic. (Celebrated if it works.)
A link to the Public Radio comment is here: http://www.npr.org/2012/12/16/167374520/college-footballs-coaching-carousel-in-full-effect
A link on NBC Sports to a discussion of Cousins's comment is here: http://irish.nbcsports.com/2012/12/10/kellys-talking-points-translate-to-pro-football/
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Remember the Fundamentals in Your Vision
When an organization is planning how to make progress towards their goals and vision, they often emphasize action items, deliverables, and metrics. These are necessary to specify and use as the basis of the plan.
However, organizations are often hampered by weaknesses in fundamental areas. It is important for leaders to remember to include these fundamentals in the plan. Here a few areas that could be incorporated in a business plan as areas for improvement.
However, organizations are often hampered by weaknesses in fundamental areas. It is important for leaders to remember to include these fundamentals in the plan. Here a few areas that could be incorporated in a business plan as areas for improvement.
- Leadership Growth
- Communication
- Relationship Building
- Accountability
- Community Involvement
- Training and Development
Friday, December 7, 2012
Thoreau: Foundations under dreams
Some people have big dreams, but assume that since there is no foundation, they will remain only dreams.
"Do not worry if you have built your castles in the air. They are where they should be. Now put the foundations under them."
--Henry David Thoreau
Using the cliche "it is never too later to start," a leader should take a vision or dream and start planning the building blocks to reach that dream. This is often the most challenging. The first steps on any project are difficult. Plus many people will be doubtful.
The dream may be personal, such as the dream to get a promotion. The first few steps may be improving your education. The dream may be huge, such as John Kennedy's dream to go to the moon. There were many initial steps by many people to create the foundation for this dream.
Once you have the dream solidified, start building the foundation.
"Do not worry if you have built your castles in the air. They are where they should be. Now put the foundations under them."
--Henry David Thoreau
Using the cliche "it is never too later to start," a leader should take a vision or dream and start planning the building blocks to reach that dream. This is often the most challenging. The first steps on any project are difficult. Plus many people will be doubtful.
The dream may be personal, such as the dream to get a promotion. The first few steps may be improving your education. The dream may be huge, such as John Kennedy's dream to go to the moon. There were many initial steps by many people to create the foundation for this dream.
Once you have the dream solidified, start building the foundation.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Jasper Johns at Leslie Sacks Contemporary Gallery
Several works by Jasper Johns are on exhibit at Leslie Sacks Contemporary Gallery. These include a couple of his small etchings of the American Flag done in the 1967 to 1969 period.
From the gallery's bigography of the artist: Johns’ flag paintings are credited as key in the development of Minimal
Art in that the focus of these pieces is on linearity and uniformity,
thus de-emphasizing the unique creative talents of the artist. For
Johns, major influences in the Minimalist style were his friendships
with dancer Merce Cunningham, composer John Cage and fellow artist
Robert Rauschenberg.
Leslie Sacks Contemporary is located at Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Avenue B6, Santa Monica California 90404.
Leslie Sacks Contemporary is located at Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Avenue B6, Santa Monica California 90404.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Discipline is important
"Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment."
Jim Rohn
Discipline is a very important quality for leaders and managers. Quite often, good leaders have numerous interests and desires. The want to help everyone and solve every problem, both big and small. Discipline is needed to stay on track and make progress on the core tasks.
In his foreword to the biography** by Zack Greenburg, Steve Forbes compares Jay-Z to other business leaders such as Steve Jobs, Warren Buffett and Bill Gates and their discipline. "Passion: the knack for imagining what doesn't exist; and the iron-willed self-discipline to make that come into existence." In his book Principle-Centered Leadership, Stephen Covey talks about how a good education should emphasize the development of self-discipline.
**Zack O'Malley Greenburg, Empire State of Mind: How Jay-Z Went From Street Corner to Corner Office (Portfolio/Penguin, 2012).
Jim Rohn
Discipline is a very important quality for leaders and managers. Quite often, good leaders have numerous interests and desires. The want to help everyone and solve every problem, both big and small. Discipline is needed to stay on track and make progress on the core tasks.
In his foreword to the biography** by Zack Greenburg, Steve Forbes compares Jay-Z to other business leaders such as Steve Jobs, Warren Buffett and Bill Gates and their discipline. "Passion: the knack for imagining what doesn't exist; and the iron-willed self-discipline to make that come into existence." In his book Principle-Centered Leadership, Stephen Covey talks about how a good education should emphasize the development of self-discipline.
**Zack O'Malley Greenburg, Empire State of Mind: How Jay-Z Went From Street Corner to Corner Office (Portfolio/Penguin, 2012).
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Leaders understanding the details
There is a ongoing debate about whether it is better for managers and leaders to be promoted from within or brought in from outside an organization. Both approaches have merit. Regardless of how senior managers acheived their post, they should always stay in touch with the day to day details of the organization.
In Leadership Jazz, Max De Pree proposed that leaders ask themselves the following question.
How long ago was it that I actually saw the products may business sells being made? A college president might ask, how long ago has it been since I visited a classroom? Or taught a class?
Princeton University requires all professors to teach classes, including undergraduate classes. The former chief of the Los Angeles Police Department, William Bratton, with previous police careers in Boston and New York, had to re-qualify as peace officer in California. The television show "Undercover Boss" uses this concept.
In Leadership Jazz, Max De Pree proposed that leaders ask themselves the following question.
How long ago was it that I actually saw the products may business sells being made? A college president might ask, how long ago has it been since I visited a classroom? Or taught a class?
Princeton University requires all professors to teach classes, including undergraduate classes. The former chief of the Los Angeles Police Department, William Bratton, with previous police careers in Boston and New York, had to re-qualify as peace officer in California. The television show "Undercover Boss" uses this concept.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Developing Leaders--Maxwell and Personalizing
Here are a few points on personalizing the development for a potential leader. From John Maxwell's Developing the Leaders Around You (Thomas Nelson, 1995)
- Select people whose philosophy of life is similar to yours
- Choose people with potential you genuinely believe in
- Determine what they need
- Evaluate their progress constantly
- Be committed, serious, and available to the people you mentor
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Philosophy of Little Details--Pamuk and Motorcycle Maintenance
Writer Orhan Pamuk had a good interview in the New York Times recently. This excerpt on his book recommendation applies to leadership and management at all levels.
If you could recommend one book to the American president, what would it be?
Many years before he was elected president, I knew Obama as the author of “Dreams From My Father,” a very good book. To him or to any American president, I would like to recommend a book that I sometimes give as a gift to friends, hoping they read it and ask me, “Why this book, Orhan?” “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into Values” is a great American book based on the vastness of America and the individual search for values and meaning in life. This highly romantic book is not a novel, but does something every serious novel should do, and does it better than many great novels: making philosophy out of the little details of daily life.
The full interview can be found here: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/11/books/review/orhan-pamuk-by-the-book.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0
If you could recommend one book to the American president, what would it be?
Many years before he was elected president, I knew Obama as the author of “Dreams From My Father,” a very good book. To him or to any American president, I would like to recommend a book that I sometimes give as a gift to friends, hoping they read it and ask me, “Why this book, Orhan?” “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into Values” is a great American book based on the vastness of America and the individual search for values and meaning in life. This highly romantic book is not a novel, but does something every serious novel should do, and does it better than many great novels: making philosophy out of the little details of daily life.
The full interview can be found here: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/11/books/review/orhan-pamuk-by-the-book.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0
Sunday, November 18, 2012
"Gifts" by Ursula K. Le Guin--excerpts
Two excerpts from Gifts, a novel by Ursula K. Le Guin (Harcourt, 2004)
My father was gone from daybreak to evening every day at the work of the domain. I had begun to be of use to him, but was useless now. Alloc took my place at his side. Alloc was a clear-hearted man, without ambitions or pretensions; he thought of himself as stupid, and some people agreed with him, but though slow to think, he often grasped an idea without thinking about it, and his judgement was usually sound. He and [my father] worked together, and he was what I could not be. I was both jealous and envious of him. I had the self-respect not to show it; for it would have hurt Alloc, angered my father, and done me no good.
. . . . . . . .
Grieving, like being blind, is a strange business; you have to learn how to do it. We seek company in mourning, but after the early burst of tears, after the praises have been spoken, and the good days remembered, and the lament cried, and the grave closed, there is no company in grief. It is a burden borne alone. How you bear it is up to you.
My father was gone from daybreak to evening every day at the work of the domain. I had begun to be of use to him, but was useless now. Alloc took my place at his side. Alloc was a clear-hearted man, without ambitions or pretensions; he thought of himself as stupid, and some people agreed with him, but though slow to think, he often grasped an idea without thinking about it, and his judgement was usually sound. He and [my father] worked together, and he was what I could not be. I was both jealous and envious of him. I had the self-respect not to show it; for it would have hurt Alloc, angered my father, and done me no good.
. . . . . . . .
Grieving, like being blind, is a strange business; you have to learn how to do it. We seek company in mourning, but after the early burst of tears, after the praises have been spoken, and the good days remembered, and the lament cried, and the grave closed, there is no company in grief. It is a burden borne alone. How you bear it is up to you.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Stepping Outside of the Box and Failure
Change and exploration is often about failure. Embracing failure is common in fields such as science, business, and sports. Successful people are the persistent ones who are not discouraged by short term failure.
There is an episode of This American Life where they look at a mathematician who took "three years of Sundays" to disprove a previously accepted assumption. The host Ira Glass and science writer Paul Hoffman discuss this mathematician, Frank Nelson Cole.
Paul Hoffman That's what science is about. It's real people banging their heads against walls and years of false starts. That's the other thing. We don't talk about the researcher who spent two years trying to find what this gene did and then gave up, or spent three years trying to find a planet outside the solar system and gave up, and someone else eventually did. It's more a combination of insight and hard work, because--
Ira Glass Failure.
Paul Hoffman And failure. Because people who think outside the box and achieve things outside the box often entertain a lot of wacky ideas that don't turn out to be true in the science world.
Science and math are fields where progress is incremental, with many failures along the way. An important approach is to never, never give up.
There is an episode of This American Life where they look at a mathematician who took "three years of Sundays" to disprove a previously accepted assumption. The host Ira Glass and science writer Paul Hoffman discuss this mathematician, Frank Nelson Cole.
Paul Hoffman That's what science is about. It's real people banging their heads against walls and years of false starts. That's the other thing. We don't talk about the researcher who spent two years trying to find what this gene did and then gave up, or spent three years trying to find a planet outside the solar system and gave up, and someone else eventually did. It's more a combination of insight and hard work, because--
Ira Glass Failure.
Paul Hoffman And failure. Because people who think outside the box and achieve things outside the box often entertain a lot of wacky ideas that don't turn out to be true in the science world.
Science and math are fields where progress is incremental, with many failures along the way. An important approach is to never, never give up.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
The Best Minute: Invest in People--Blanchard and Johnson
"The Best Minute I Spend Is The One I Invest in People"
This is one of the key points in The One Minute Manager by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson. This point is so simple, yet so many leaders in their busy, over-scheduled days, forget this. They go on to write the following:
"Most companies spend 50% to 70% of their money on people's salaries. And yet they spend less than 1% of their budget to train their people. Most companies, in fact, spend more time and money on maintaining their buildings and equipment than they do on maintaining and developing people."
Leaders should reflect when they are working on budgets and to do lists and priorities to make sure they are putting people first.
This is one of the key points in The One Minute Manager by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson. This point is so simple, yet so many leaders in their busy, over-scheduled days, forget this. They go on to write the following:
"Most companies spend 50% to 70% of their money on people's salaries. And yet they spend less than 1% of their budget to train their people. Most companies, in fact, spend more time and money on maintaining their buildings and equipment than they do on maintaining and developing people."
Leaders should reflect when they are working on budgets and to do lists and priorities to make sure they are putting people first.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Leadership: Angus King, Independent Senator
There are numerous great leaders involved in the political arena as independents and "third party candidates." In the recent election, Jill Stein of the Green Party and Gary Johnson of the Libertarian Party both ran solid national campaigns, showed leadership abilities, and stood for their principles.
In Maine, former governor Angus King won the senatorial election. After the election, he had an interview on National Public Radio that highlighted several leadership philosophies. Here are a couple excerpts.
My whole reason for going down there is to try to build bridges and get people talking to one another, and caucusing may be part of the process in order to participate fully in, you know, in committees and things like that, but I really think we got to get beyond this partisan stuff and we've got solve some problems.
. . . . . . . . .
I don't want to sound corny about this, but I'm concerned about the country, and this fierce partisanship that we've seen is not serving public. And I worked in the Senate as a young staffer in the '70s and saw it actually work. I saw senators of both parties sit around the table, argue, disagree, agree, but finally reached consensus and passed important legislation. So it can happen.
In Maine, former governor Angus King won the senatorial election. After the election, he had an interview on National Public Radio that highlighted several leadership philosophies. Here are a couple excerpts.
My whole reason for going down there is to try to build bridges and get people talking to one another, and caucusing may be part of the process in order to participate fully in, you know, in committees and things like that, but I really think we got to get beyond this partisan stuff and we've got solve some problems.
. . . . . . . . .
I don't want to sound corny about this, but I'm concerned about the country, and this fierce partisanship that we've seen is not serving public. And I worked in the Senate as a young staffer in the '70s and saw it actually work. I saw senators of both parties sit around the table, argue, disagree, agree, but finally reached consensus and passed important legislation. So it can happen.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Poem: Verlaine for Birthday
For my wife's birthday card, I included the following poem excerpt
from "In Muted Tone" by Paul Verlaine.
The full poem can be found at the Poetry Foundation website.
Gently, let us steep our love
In the silence deep, as thus,
Branches arching high above
Twine their shadows over us.
Let us blend our souls as one,
Hearts’ and senses’ ecstasies,
Evergreen, in unison
With the pines’ vague lethargies.
The full poem can be found at the Poetry Foundation website.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Leadership: George on Mindfulness--Harvard Business
Recently Bill George had an article at the Harvard Business Review (hbr.org) entitled "Mindfulness Helps You Become a Better Leader". He talks about some of the work they are doing at Harvard Business School as well his courses in Authentic Leadership.
"We are challenging students to think hard about their definition of success and what's important in their lives. Instead of viewing success as reaching a certain position or achieving a certain net worth, we encourage these future leaders to see success as making a positive difference in the lives of their colleagues, their organizations, their families, and society as a whole"
George emphasizes that leaders should routinely clarify their values and priorities. Important to this process is a daily practice such as meditation, journaling, prayer, or reflecting while walking, hiking or jogging. This connects to Stephen Covey's concept of "Sharpening the Saw."
There are many small things that you can do every day to help put your values in practice and impact colleagues, family members, and friends. Go out of your way to say a sincere "thank you" or "good job". Spend a little extra time with someone close to you. Ask one more open-ended question and then just listen.
URL for article: http://blogs.hbr.org/hbsfaculty/2012/10/mindfulness-helps-you-become-a.html
"We are challenging students to think hard about their definition of success and what's important in their lives. Instead of viewing success as reaching a certain position or achieving a certain net worth, we encourage these future leaders to see success as making a positive difference in the lives of their colleagues, their organizations, their families, and society as a whole"
George emphasizes that leaders should routinely clarify their values and priorities. Important to this process is a daily practice such as meditation, journaling, prayer, or reflecting while walking, hiking or jogging. This connects to Stephen Covey's concept of "Sharpening the Saw."
There are many small things that you can do every day to help put your values in practice and impact colleagues, family members, and friends. Go out of your way to say a sincere "thank you" or "good job". Spend a little extra time with someone close to you. Ask one more open-ended question and then just listen.
URL for article: http://blogs.hbr.org/hbsfaculty/2012/10/mindfulness-helps-you-become-a.html
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Epigraphs in Le Guin's Lathe of Heaven
In The Lathe of Heaven (1971) Ursula K. Le Guin starts each chapter with an epigraph. Here are some of the one which particularly caught my attention.
Chapter 3
Those whom heaven helps we call the sons of heaven. They do not learn this by learning. They do not work it by working. They do not reason it by using reason. To let understanding stop at what cannot be understood is a high attainment. Those who cannot do it will be destroyed on the lathe of heaven.
--Chuang Tse: XXIII
Chapter 4
Nothing endures, nothing is precise and certain (except the mind of a pedant), perfection is that mere repudiation of that ineluctable marginal inexactitude which is the mysterious inmost quality of Being.
--H.G. Wells, A Modern Utopia
Chapter 8
Heaven and Earth are not humane.
--Lao Tse: V
Chapter 9
Those who dream of dream of feasting wake to lamentation.
--Chuang Tse: II
The epigraph for Chapter 3 is particularly interesting on the overall topic of nature versus nurture. It can apply to a broad range of talents and abilities.
Chapter 3
Those whom heaven helps we call the sons of heaven. They do not learn this by learning. They do not work it by working. They do not reason it by using reason. To let understanding stop at what cannot be understood is a high attainment. Those who cannot do it will be destroyed on the lathe of heaven.
--Chuang Tse: XXIII
Chapter 4
Nothing endures, nothing is precise and certain (except the mind of a pedant), perfection is that mere repudiation of that ineluctable marginal inexactitude which is the mysterious inmost quality of Being.
--H.G. Wells, A Modern Utopia
Chapter 8
Heaven and Earth are not humane.
--Lao Tse: V
Chapter 9
Those who dream of dream of feasting wake to lamentation.
--Chuang Tse: II
The epigraph for Chapter 3 is particularly interesting on the overall topic of nature versus nurture. It can apply to a broad range of talents and abilities.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Facing Change; Criminal Minds
"Criminal Minds" is a police procedural television show produced by CBS. Reruns are shown on Ion Television as well as other cable networks.
The show deals with the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit as they work to solve difficult crimes and crime sprees. Even thought the cases can be painful and gruesome, the dialog and bookend quotes can be very reflective.
In Season 6, Episode 2 ("JJ", September 29, 2010) agent Jennifer 'JJ' Jareau is being transferred away from the team. The transfer makes no sense to the team since they are on the top of their game, mainly due to great unit chemistry.
In her exit interview, JJ talks about the aspects of change and uncertainty.
I'm thankful for my years spent with this family, for everything we shared, every chance we had to grow. I'll take the best of them with me and lead by their example wherever I go. A friend told me to be honest with you, so here it goes. This isn't what I want, but I'll take the high road. Maybe it's because I look at everything as a lesson, or because I don't want to walk around angry, or maybe it's because I finally understand. There are things we don't want to happen but have to accept, things we don't want to know but have to learn, and people we can't live without but have to let go.
I really like the line:
things we don't want to know but have to learn
In personal growth, quite often we must overcome some knowledge we fear. We do not want to hear other give us criticism. We do not want to find our weaknesses. We do not want to find our mistakes. However, we must learn these shortcomings to step beyond them.
The show deals with the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit as they work to solve difficult crimes and crime sprees. Even thought the cases can be painful and gruesome, the dialog and bookend quotes can be very reflective.
In Season 6, Episode 2 ("JJ", September 29, 2010) agent Jennifer 'JJ' Jareau is being transferred away from the team. The transfer makes no sense to the team since they are on the top of their game, mainly due to great unit chemistry.
In her exit interview, JJ talks about the aspects of change and uncertainty.
I'm thankful for my years spent with this family, for everything we shared, every chance we had to grow. I'll take the best of them with me and lead by their example wherever I go. A friend told me to be honest with you, so here it goes. This isn't what I want, but I'll take the high road. Maybe it's because I look at everything as a lesson, or because I don't want to walk around angry, or maybe it's because I finally understand. There are things we don't want to happen but have to accept, things we don't want to know but have to learn, and people we can't live without but have to let go.
I really like the line:
things we don't want to know but have to learn
In personal growth, quite often we must overcome some knowledge we fear. We do not want to hear other give us criticism. We do not want to find our weaknesses. We do not want to find our mistakes. However, we must learn these shortcomings to step beyond them.
Leadership: Take a risk with a promotion
Often a manager must decide upon a promotion of a candidate that may not be ideally ready. If at all possible, take the risk and promote the candidate.
Few people are completely ready for a promotion. However, they will rise to the situation and surprise you with their desire to success. They will be more appreciative of the opportunity and be more dedicated.
You may need to mentor this newly promoted candidate more. As a leader who develops other leaders, this is by the best way to invest your time. John Maxwell says that developing leaders is the fastest way to grow your organization.
In the mentoring process, connect back to the new manager's background. Often, this background was the reason she was promoted. Military background, college athlete, and challenging childhood are often good sources for leadership reflections.
Few people are completely ready for a promotion. However, they will rise to the situation and surprise you with their desire to success. They will be more appreciative of the opportunity and be more dedicated.
You may need to mentor this newly promoted candidate more. As a leader who develops other leaders, this is by the best way to invest your time. John Maxwell says that developing leaders is the fastest way to grow your organization.
In the mentoring process, connect back to the new manager's background. Often, this background was the reason she was promoted. Military background, college athlete, and challenging childhood are often good sources for leadership reflections.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Los Angeles Art: Allen Harrison at Lois Lambert Gallery
Allen Harrison exhibition at Lois Lambert Gallery in Bergamot Station in Santa Monica. Exhibit ends 11 November 2012
Lois Lambert Gallery website: http://www.loislambertgallery.com/
Harrison's paintings use texture and pattern which are visible close up. As you back away, impressive sunsets appear.
Bergamot Station Art Center is an incredible collection of art galleries, museums, and art stores.
Harrison's paintings use texture and pattern which are visible close up. As you back away, impressive sunsets appear.
Bergamot Station Art Center is an incredible collection of art galleries, museums, and art stores.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Critical Thinking and Creative Thinking--Maxwell
Great excerpt from John Maxwell's Put Your Dreams to the Test.
As you work to remain flexible, remember that while the dream may stay the same, everything else is subject to change: timelines, resources, assumptions, plans, and team members. Comedian Bill Cosby's quip, "Nothing fits a pigeonhole but a pigeon," is humorous but true. Remain flexible and be ready to change. And be ready to employ two skill sets:
Critical Thinking that asks, What needs to be changed?
Creative Thinking that asks, How can we change it?
If you can remain flexible and use such thinking, you have a good chance of facing challenges and overcoming obstacles.
Leaders often get stuck on one side of the balance. They may use too much Critical Thinking and not look into innovative actions. Or they may use too much Creative Thinking but not tackle the correct problem. It is best to approach challenges using both modes.
As you work to remain flexible, remember that while the dream may stay the same, everything else is subject to change: timelines, resources, assumptions, plans, and team members. Comedian Bill Cosby's quip, "Nothing fits a pigeonhole but a pigeon," is humorous but true. Remain flexible and be ready to change. And be ready to employ two skill sets:
Critical Thinking that asks, What needs to be changed?
Creative Thinking that asks, How can we change it?
If you can remain flexible and use such thinking, you have a good chance of facing challenges and overcoming obstacles.
Leaders often get stuck on one side of the balance. They may use too much Critical Thinking and not look into innovative actions. Or they may use too much Creative Thinking but not tackle the correct problem. It is best to approach challenges using both modes.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Leadership: Putting all your eggs in one basket
One of Napoleon Hill's principles of success is to find your Definite Chief Aim. In his book Law of Success: The 21st-Centry Edition, Revised and Updated (2003, edited by Ann Hartley and Bill Hartley), he touch on why a Definite Chief Aim is important to a leader.
All great leaders base their Leadership on a Definite Chief Aim. Follower are willing followers when they know their leader is a person with a Definite Chief Aim who has the courage to back up that purpose with action. Even a balky horse know when a driver with a Definite Chief Aim takes hold of the reins, and it yields to that driver.
Andrew Carnegie's advice was: "Place all your eggs in one basket adn then watch the basket to see that no one kicks it over." By that he meant, of course, that we should no dissipate nay of our energies by engaging in sidelines. Carnegie was a sound economist and he know that most people would do well if they harnessed and directed their energies so that some one thing would be done well.
Leaders always have numerous demands on their time. They have to decide when to say "no", when to say "yes", and when to say "more!" Having a Definite Chief Aim is important in guiding those decisions.
All great leaders base their Leadership on a Definite Chief Aim. Follower are willing followers when they know their leader is a person with a Definite Chief Aim who has the courage to back up that purpose with action. Even a balky horse know when a driver with a Definite Chief Aim takes hold of the reins, and it yields to that driver.
Andrew Carnegie's advice was: "Place all your eggs in one basket adn then watch the basket to see that no one kicks it over." By that he meant, of course, that we should no dissipate nay of our energies by engaging in sidelines. Carnegie was a sound economist and he know that most people would do well if they harnessed and directed their energies so that some one thing would be done well.
Leaders always have numerous demands on their time. They have to decide when to say "no", when to say "yes", and when to say "more!" Having a Definite Chief Aim is important in guiding those decisions.
Make Yourself Sick of Communicating--De Pree on Leadership
"If you're a leader and you're not sick and tried of communicating, you probably aren't doing a good enough job."
Max De Pree, Leadership Jazz
Most leaders have several constituencies to communicate with. Make a list of those groups and track how often you communicate with them.
Often, you will find that you are overlooking one or more groups. Maybe long term clients? Maybe long term employees. Maybe vendors and collaborators.
Here is a list of potential groups that a leader should try to communicate with on a regular basis.
Max De Pree, Leadership Jazz
Most leaders have several constituencies to communicate with. Make a list of those groups and track how often you communicate with them.
Often, you will find that you are overlooking one or more groups. Maybe long term clients? Maybe long term employees. Maybe vendors and collaborators.
Here is a list of potential groups that a leader should try to communicate with on a regular basis.
- Inner circle: John Maxwell talks about a leader's inner circle of close advisors. Do you routinely communicate with them. Do they feel that you listen to them?
- New Employees
- Veteran Employees: Long time employees are often key to an organization. However, they may feel that their voices are no longer heard. Ask for their insight on changes.
- New Clients
- Long Term Clients: The marketplace is constantly changing. Your clients are being approached by other service providers with new deals and new products. Communicate why these clients should stay with you. More importantly, why should they refer new business to you.
- Vendors
- Community Leaders: Most successful organizations have strong connections to the community. Think beyond an annual donation to a national charity. Find out the needs of local non-profits and local schools. Can you provide a local college with an intern opportunity?
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
The Shining by Stephen King: a couple of excerpts
There is one paragraph in The Shining where Stephen King describes the psychic occurrences at the Overlook hotel. Very imaginative.
In wasn't a perception of sight or sound, although it was very near to those things, separated from those senses by the filmiest of perceptual curtains. It was as if another Overlook now lay scant inches beyond this one, separated from the real world (if there is such a thing as a "real word," Jack thought) but gradually coming into balance with it. He was reminded of the 3-D movies he'd seen as a kid. If you looked at the screen without the special glasses, you saw a double image--the sort of thing he was feeling now. But when you put the glasses on, it made sense.
All the hotel's eras were together now, all but this current one, the Torrance Era. And this would be together with the rest very soon now. That was good. That was very good.
I love the analogy of the old 3-D movies.
The novel was originally written in 1977. In the 2001 introduction to the novel, King commented about his interaction with Stanley Kubrick. They discussed how the story blurs the supernatural and the psychotic.
My single conversation with the late Stanley Kubrick, about six months before he commence filing his version of The Shining, suggested that it was this quality about the story that appealed to him: What, exactly, is impelling Jack Torrance toward murder in the winter-isolated rooms and hallways of the Overlook Hotel? Is it undead people, or undead memories? Mr Kubrick and I came to difference conclusions (I always thought there were malevolent ghosts in the Overlook, driving Jack to the precipice), but perhaps those different conclusions are in fact, the same. For aren't memories the true ghosts of our lives? Do they not drive all of us to words and acts we regret from time to time.
In wasn't a perception of sight or sound, although it was very near to those things, separated from those senses by the filmiest of perceptual curtains. It was as if another Overlook now lay scant inches beyond this one, separated from the real world (if there is such a thing as a "real word," Jack thought) but gradually coming into balance with it. He was reminded of the 3-D movies he'd seen as a kid. If you looked at the screen without the special glasses, you saw a double image--the sort of thing he was feeling now. But when you put the glasses on, it made sense.
All the hotel's eras were together now, all but this current one, the Torrance Era. And this would be together with the rest very soon now. That was good. That was very good.
I love the analogy of the old 3-D movies.
The novel was originally written in 1977. In the 2001 introduction to the novel, King commented about his interaction with Stanley Kubrick. They discussed how the story blurs the supernatural and the psychotic.
My single conversation with the late Stanley Kubrick, about six months before he commence filing his version of The Shining, suggested that it was this quality about the story that appealed to him: What, exactly, is impelling Jack Torrance toward murder in the winter-isolated rooms and hallways of the Overlook Hotel? Is it undead people, or undead memories? Mr Kubrick and I came to difference conclusions (I always thought there were malevolent ghosts in the Overlook, driving Jack to the precipice), but perhaps those different conclusions are in fact, the same. For aren't memories the true ghosts of our lives? Do they not drive all of us to words and acts we regret from time to time.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Approaching Resolutions: Who and Where--Covey
In Principle-Centered Leadership, Stephen Covey emphasizes resolutions and how to approach them. He starts by highlighting the two common mistakes with resolutions.
First, we don't have a clear knowledge of who we are.
Second, we don't have a clear picture of where we want to go
Covey talks about the power of others in breaking bad habits and moving towards a goal. Having someone to keep you accountable helps keep you responsible. "Accountability partners" are uses in many coaching situations. They could be your mentor, your managers, your workout buddy, your AA sponsor, your Weight Watchers group, or a family member. In leadership, accountability to others is key.
First, we don't have a clear knowledge of who we are.
Second, we don't have a clear picture of where we want to go
Covey talks about the power of others in breaking bad habits and moving towards a goal. Having someone to keep you accountable helps keep you responsible. "Accountability partners" are uses in many coaching situations. They could be your mentor, your managers, your workout buddy, your AA sponsor, your Weight Watchers group, or a family member. In leadership, accountability to others is key.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Challenge of Mentoring; Sticking to it
“I am not a teacher, but an awakener.”
― Robert Frost
One challenge of leadership is mentoring. A good leader strives to help each team member develop and reach her potential. Some people are easy to mentor. You share a few observations and make some suggestions. They ask a few questions and they start following your suggestions.
Many people, however, are difficult to mentor. They forget the saying "when you point one finger at someone, you have three fingers pointing back at you." They want to blame their struggles one someone else. It takes patience and consistency to mentor these people. As a mentor, you may see the internal problem the person has. But it may take a long time for them to admit to it.
A relationship based on trust and transparency is a great starting point for mentoring. If the person to be mentored does not trust you, they will be looking for underlying motives behind your suggestions. You can build that trust with the small acts of service over time.
― Robert Frost
One challenge of leadership is mentoring. A good leader strives to help each team member develop and reach her potential. Some people are easy to mentor. You share a few observations and make some suggestions. They ask a few questions and they start following your suggestions.
Many people, however, are difficult to mentor. They forget the saying "when you point one finger at someone, you have three fingers pointing back at you." They want to blame their struggles one someone else. It takes patience and consistency to mentor these people. As a mentor, you may see the internal problem the person has. But it may take a long time for them to admit to it.
A relationship based on trust and transparency is a great starting point for mentoring. If the person to be mentored does not trust you, they will be looking for underlying motives behind your suggestions. You can build that trust with the small acts of service over time.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Communicating A Leader's Values; Gunning
In The Leadership Challenge, Kouzes and Posner discusses the need for Clarify Values. They point out the need to have your communications on all levels reflect your values. Important to this is the choice of words, phrases, and metaphors.
Mixed messages can happen when some leaders try to motivate. Often, motivational talks use aggressive sports and military analogies. Sport and military fields have many very powerful stories and messages, however they can conflict with the values of many businesses and organizations.
In constrast, several positive examples are given from a speech made by Louis Gunning of Unilever. He focuses on the value of service and caring.
"The core insight about great leadership comes down to service. Somehow it humanizes us."
"People want to live meaningful lives; . . . .they want to grow and they want to be part of an organization that helps them to contribute to something that is far bigger than they could ever create on their own."
"Caring for the community needs to be in the heart of all our actions. Once we get this right, then the rest will come into place."
Sports and military fields have many great figures that business leaders and non-profit leaders connect to. A well-rounded leader should balance these greats with other greats known for compassion, service, and integrity.
Balance Vince Lombardi with Mother Teresa
Balance George Patton with Martin Luther King
Balance Michael Jordan with Mohandas Gandhi
Balance Sun Tzu with Eleanor Roosevelt
Mixed messages can happen when some leaders try to motivate. Often, motivational talks use aggressive sports and military analogies. Sport and military fields have many very powerful stories and messages, however they can conflict with the values of many businesses and organizations.
In constrast, several positive examples are given from a speech made by Louis Gunning of Unilever. He focuses on the value of service and caring.
"The core insight about great leadership comes down to service. Somehow it humanizes us."
"People want to live meaningful lives; . . . .they want to grow and they want to be part of an organization that helps them to contribute to something that is far bigger than they could ever create on their own."
"Caring for the community needs to be in the heart of all our actions. Once we get this right, then the rest will come into place."
Sports and military fields have many great figures that business leaders and non-profit leaders connect to. A well-rounded leader should balance these greats with other greats known for compassion, service, and integrity.
Balance Vince Lombardi with Mother Teresa
Balance George Patton with Martin Luther King
Balance Michael Jordan with Mohandas Gandhi
Balance Sun Tzu with Eleanor Roosevelt
Friday, October 12, 2012
Leadership Communication: Little Things; Kinder
One great book on managing a life insurance agency is Building the Master Agency: The System is the Solution by Jack Kinder, Garry Kinder, and Val Ivanov (2002). In talking about communication, they provide a list dealing with the "Might of Little Things." Consistency with little things in the area of communication can have a major impact.
Some of the items they list include:
Some of the items they list include:
- Pay attention to detail
- Be available
- Be an idea person
- Instill "advisor" mentality
- Make meetings mean money--inform, instruct, and inspire
- Expect the believe in self-development and personal growth
- Encourage appropriate family involvement
Monday, October 8, 2012
Learning About Opera; Rigoletto
We may go see our first opera next month. In preparation, I decided to learn more about opera. I picked up the following book as a starting point:
Fred Plotkin, Opera 101: A Complete Guide to Learning and Loving Opera (New York, Hyperion, 1994)
One quote from Plotkin:
To me, opera is about consideration of the human experience. Opera audiences become so involved with performances because they face emotional truths most of us don't confront in daily life. The late twentieth century, with its rapid-fire information flow, does not make room for the reflection that opera affords. During a three-hour operatic performance one can focus on the issues that opera explores and find personal meeting in them. Every human emotion and activity--love, lust incest, hatred, fidelity, bravery, fear, humor, is enacted in opera, but on a grand scale. It's like going to an amusement park and looking at yourself in one of those elongated fun-house mirrors. What we see in opera is ourselves, as long as we are honest enough to admit it.
The first opera they recommend learning is Verdi's Rigoletto. I found the following version at the North Hollywood Branch Library.
Giuseppe Verdi, Rigoletto, Carlo Maria Guilini, conductor
starring Placido Domingo, Piero Cappuccilli, Ileana Cotrubas
Deutsche Grammophon Gesellschaft 1980.
Fred Plotkin, Opera 101: A Complete Guide to Learning and Loving Opera (New York, Hyperion, 1994)
One quote from Plotkin:
To me, opera is about consideration of the human experience. Opera audiences become so involved with performances because they face emotional truths most of us don't confront in daily life. The late twentieth century, with its rapid-fire information flow, does not make room for the reflection that opera affords. During a three-hour operatic performance one can focus on the issues that opera explores and find personal meeting in them. Every human emotion and activity--love, lust incest, hatred, fidelity, bravery, fear, humor, is enacted in opera, but on a grand scale. It's like going to an amusement park and looking at yourself in one of those elongated fun-house mirrors. What we see in opera is ourselves, as long as we are honest enough to admit it.
The first opera they recommend learning is Verdi's Rigoletto. I found the following version at the North Hollywood Branch Library.
Giuseppe Verdi, Rigoletto, Carlo Maria Guilini, conductor
starring Placido Domingo, Piero Cappuccilli, Ileana Cotrubas
Deutsche Grammophon Gesellschaft 1980.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
De Pree Questions for Leaders, Part III
In a previous post about Leadership Jazz by Max De Pree, a list of questions was provided. This list is questions that leaders should expect from their followers. One of those questions is:
Are you ready to be ruthlessly honest?
Stepping back, when looking for people to add to your organization, look for people who ask hard questions. Good followers and good leaders ask hard questions and will want ask follow up questions to dig deeper. Good followers will also appreciate the honesty and sincerity; if you disclose personal or corporate details about a difficult decision, they will not share it with every employee, every newspaper, and every social network the moment they leave your office.
Be ruthlessly honest. Most hard questions require complex answers. Give the full honest answers. Notice if most of your answers are a few words, a few sentences, or a few paragraphs. Most answers to complex questions will requires a few paragraphs. You may need to develop your ability deliver answers that build trust.
Connect back to core principles. Both leaders and organizations have core principles, visions, and missions. Connect the answer to complex questions from followers back to these core principles. Often, being ruthlessly honest is the most difficult when a question is about deviation from core principles.
For example, a certain decision may be completely in the interest of short term revenue but completely against the interest of long term employee development. If a follower ask about this, be honest about this. A good follower or fellow leaders will be more interested in the answer to the next questions: How do we prevent this or change this in the future?
Some leaders only give partial answers. Avoid this when possible. However, some information may be confidential due to personnel matters, confidentiality, or legal issues. In these cases, simple state these boundaries. If you use these issues sparingly, and have the demonstrated honesty in other matters, followers will respect these boundaries.
Are you ready to be ruthlessly honest?
Stepping back, when looking for people to add to your organization, look for people who ask hard questions. Good followers and good leaders ask hard questions and will want ask follow up questions to dig deeper. Good followers will also appreciate the honesty and sincerity; if you disclose personal or corporate details about a difficult decision, they will not share it with every employee, every newspaper, and every social network the moment they leave your office.
Be ruthlessly honest. Most hard questions require complex answers. Give the full honest answers. Notice if most of your answers are a few words, a few sentences, or a few paragraphs. Most answers to complex questions will requires a few paragraphs. You may need to develop your ability deliver answers that build trust.
Connect back to core principles. Both leaders and organizations have core principles, visions, and missions. Connect the answer to complex questions from followers back to these core principles. Often, being ruthlessly honest is the most difficult when a question is about deviation from core principles.
For example, a certain decision may be completely in the interest of short term revenue but completely against the interest of long term employee development. If a follower ask about this, be honest about this. A good follower or fellow leaders will be more interested in the answer to the next questions: How do we prevent this or change this in the future?
Some leaders only give partial answers. Avoid this when possible. However, some information may be confidential due to personnel matters, confidentiality, or legal issues. In these cases, simple state these boundaries. If you use these issues sparingly, and have the demonstrated honesty in other matters, followers will respect these boundaries.
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Leadership Poem: Pleasing everyone; Robert Lax
Leadership often involves deciding between conflicting desires. Billy Cosby has a quote that touches on this idea.
"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."
Robert Lax wrote a poem entitled "The Alley Violinst." In the poem the violinist has to decide between conflicting desires.
if you were an alley violinist
and they threw you money
from three windows
and the first note contained
a nickel and said:
when you play, we dance and
sing, signed
a very poor family
nd the second one contained
a dime and said:
i like your playing very much,
signed
a sick old lady
and the last one contained
a dollar and said:
beat it,
The violinist must decide on which group to please. Like in life, the easy path, to beat it, has the best short term compensation.
Robert Lax, "The Alley Violinist," as found in Good Poem, edited by Garrison Keillor (New York, Penguin Books, 2002).
"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."
Robert Lax wrote a poem entitled "The Alley Violinst." In the poem the violinist has to decide between conflicting desires.
if you were an alley violinist
and they threw you money
from three windows
and the first note contained
a nickel and said:
when you play, we dance and
sing, signed
a very poor family
nd the second one contained
a dime and said:
i like your playing very much,
signed
a sick old lady
and the last one contained
a dollar and said:
beat it,
The violinist must decide on which group to please. Like in life, the easy path, to beat it, has the best short term compensation.
Robert Lax, "The Alley Violinist," as found in Good Poem, edited by Garrison Keillor (New York, Penguin Books, 2002).
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Reading Watchmen
I saw the movie "Watchmen" when it was released in 2009. I liked the movie, but felt there was more background that I was missing. I added the graphic novel to my "to read" list.
I recently finished the book, which is a collection of twelve graphic novels which were initially published by DC Comics in 1986.
A few observations.
Special Thanks to Neil Gaiman
I was surprised to see a dedication to Neil Gaiman. For me, it was one of those situation that once you are aware of a person or thing, you see them everywhere. I only recently became aware of Gaiman's vast body of work. I first saw the novel Good Omens. Then I watched the movies "Stardust" and "MirrorMask". In connection with "Watchmen," Gaiman is a good friend of Alan Moore with connections to DC Comics and other projects.
Rorschach discovering the heinous crime of the child kidnapper
In Chapter VI, "The Abyss Gazes Also," a lot of Rorschach's back story is given. In particular, the steps of him finding the burned clothes, the butcher tools, and feeling the cut marks on the butcher board is very well done. No text is needed in these panels.
Background Information
Rorschach's childhood case files. Excerpts from Hollis Mason's book Under the Mask. Interview with Adrian Veidt/Ozymandias. Quote from Bob Dylan's "All Along the Watchtower". Letters and news clips from Sally Jupiter. Article on studying owls and other birds.
I recently finished the book, which is a collection of twelve graphic novels which were initially published by DC Comics in 1986.
A few observations.
Special Thanks to Neil Gaiman
I was surprised to see a dedication to Neil Gaiman. For me, it was one of those situation that once you are aware of a person or thing, you see them everywhere. I only recently became aware of Gaiman's vast body of work. I first saw the novel Good Omens. Then I watched the movies "Stardust" and "MirrorMask". In connection with "Watchmen," Gaiman is a good friend of Alan Moore with connections to DC Comics and other projects.
Rorschach discovering the heinous crime of the child kidnapper
In Chapter VI, "The Abyss Gazes Also," a lot of Rorschach's back story is given. In particular, the steps of him finding the burned clothes, the butcher tools, and feeling the cut marks on the butcher board is very well done. No text is needed in these panels.
Background Information
Rorschach's childhood case files. Excerpts from Hollis Mason's book Under the Mask. Interview with Adrian Veidt/Ozymandias. Quote from Bob Dylan's "All Along the Watchtower". Letters and news clips from Sally Jupiter. Article on studying owls and other birds.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Leadership: Changing Accidental Growth to Intentional Growth
In a recent post, John Maxwell discussed some of the keys to personal growth. In particular, he highlights how important it is to intentionally control and promote growth.
One particular contrast:
Accidental Growth: Thinks Like a Victim
Intentional Growth: Thinks Like a Learner
Many great leaders and successful people have learned from their challenges whereas it would be easy to act as a victim. Mohandas Gandhi went through numerous challenge, learned from them, used the knowledge to success in the future. Early in his career, Walt Disney had artistic staff members lured away from him and had his distributors thwart the release of some of his early film. Neither Gandhi nor Disney played the victim. They learned from the challenges and move on better prepared to succeed in the future.
Leaders have daily and weekly challenges. After each challenge, ask "what can I learn from this?" If you keep a journal, use this as a starting question each day.
One particular contrast:
Accidental Growth: Thinks Like a Victim
Intentional Growth: Thinks Like a Learner
Many great leaders and successful people have learned from their challenges whereas it would be easy to act as a victim. Mohandas Gandhi went through numerous challenge, learned from them, used the knowledge to success in the future. Early in his career, Walt Disney had artistic staff members lured away from him and had his distributors thwart the release of some of his early film. Neither Gandhi nor Disney played the victim. They learned from the challenges and move on better prepared to succeed in the future.
Leaders have daily and weekly challenges. After each challenge, ask "what can I learn from this?" If you keep a journal, use this as a starting question each day.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
De Pree Questions for Leaders, Part II
Will I reach my potential by working with you?
This is one of the questions that Max De Pree suggests leaders should expect. In a previous post, De Pree list of questions was provided. De Pree is the former CEO of Herman Miller Furniture and writes on leadership and business management.
Often, people are hesitant about discussing such questions with their managers and leaders. Good leaders should ask and encourage such questions. You many want to start the conversation with a related question such as "how do you see your role in the organization evolving?" This will start them talking about themselves before going into the more difficult topic of you as their leader.
What is good? What is bad?
Move the conversation by discussing what you as a leader had done to move them towards their potential. Then discuss how you are holding them back. If the conversation needs more encouragement and direction, consider these three areas: freedom, challenges, support.
You may be tempted to come out of this conversation with a quick list of action items. The ideal goal of this conversation is to provide broad guidance for future decisions and mentoring.
Sometimes, the leader's truthful answer to this question is no, you will not reach your potential with me. There may be a mismatch in chemistry between the person and the leader. There may be a mismatch in vision or approach. The sooner this is addressed, the better. Alternate plans can be pursued.
This is one of the questions that Max De Pree suggests leaders should expect. In a previous post, De Pree list of questions was provided. De Pree is the former CEO of Herman Miller Furniture and writes on leadership and business management.
Often, people are hesitant about discussing such questions with their managers and leaders. Good leaders should ask and encourage such questions. You many want to start the conversation with a related question such as "how do you see your role in the organization evolving?" This will start them talking about themselves before going into the more difficult topic of you as their leader.
What is good? What is bad?
Move the conversation by discussing what you as a leader had done to move them towards their potential. Then discuss how you are holding them back. If the conversation needs more encouragement and direction, consider these three areas: freedom, challenges, support.
You may be tempted to come out of this conversation with a quick list of action items. The ideal goal of this conversation is to provide broad guidance for future decisions and mentoring.
Sometimes, the leader's truthful answer to this question is no, you will not reach your potential with me. There may be a mismatch in chemistry between the person and the leader. There may be a mismatch in vision or approach. The sooner this is addressed, the better. Alternate plans can be pursued.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Novogratz on a Life of Immersion
Jacqueline Novogratz is the founder and CEO of the Acumen Fund. Her efforts to start Acumen is highlighted in John Maxwell's Book, Put Your Dream To The Test (Thomas Nelson, Inc., 2011). Maxwell uses Novogratz work as an example of someone for whom "working toward her dream brings her satisfaction."
Novogratz has presented at TED several times. In 2010, she gave a talk entitled "Inspiring a life of immersion". She gave several powerful examples of colleagues who have taken the difficult path in life and continued to learn on the way. One colleague, Josephat Byaruhanga, reflected on the need for leaders to listen and be humble. "So I conclude that, in many ways, leadership is like a panicle of rice. Because at the height of the season, at the height of its powers, it's beautiful, it's green, it nourishes the world, it reaches to the heavens. But right before the harvest, it bends over with great gratitude and humility to touch the earth from where it came."
Novogratz has presented at TED several times. In 2010, she gave a talk entitled "Inspiring a life of immersion". She gave several powerful examples of colleagues who have taken the difficult path in life and continued to learn on the way. One colleague, Josephat Byaruhanga, reflected on the need for leaders to listen and be humble. "So I conclude that, in many ways, leadership is like a panicle of rice. Because at the height of the season, at the height of its powers, it's beautiful, it's green, it nourishes the world, it reaches to the heavens. But right before the harvest, it bends over with great gratitude and humility to touch the earth from where it came."
Friday, September 21, 2012
Shuttle Final Flyover Skips Rocket Engine Facility
LAist had a post of about how the final flight of the Space Shuttle Endeavor skipped the San Fernando Valley. The Valley has always been a major location for aerospace development.
In particular, Pratt and Whitney Rocketdyne in Canoga Park is the facility that manufactured the Space Shuttle Main Engines (SSMEs). In a press release, Pratt and Whitney said, "But with the program officially over, we are looking to an uncertain legacy and future. It’s critical – now more than ever – for NASA to define its plan for returning humans to space. The nation cannot afford to lose its industrial base, leadership in space, and the knowledge it’s built over the last 50 years. Once that knowledge is gone, it’s gone forever.”
Monday, September 17, 2012
More On Authenticity and Leadership
Continuing on the theme of authenticity in leadership . . . .
In The Leadership Challenge by James Kouzes and Barry Posner, there is a powerful passage on how leaders need to be authentic, sincere, and passionate.
You must know what you care about. If you don't care, how can you expect others to do so? If you don't burn with desire to be true to something you hold passionately, how can you expect commitment from others? And until you get close enough to flame to feel the heat, how can you know the source? You can only be authentic when you lead according to the principles that matter most to you. Otherwise you're just putting on an act.
Many leaders pour their efforts into many areas. Beyond their normal job, they may be passionate about a non-profit organization, passionate about an artistic hobby, or passionate about athletic endeavors. Being passionate in many areas of life is important to be an authentic leader.
In The Leadership Challenge by James Kouzes and Barry Posner, there is a powerful passage on how leaders need to be authentic, sincere, and passionate.
You must know what you care about. If you don't care, how can you expect others to do so? If you don't burn with desire to be true to something you hold passionately, how can you expect commitment from others? And until you get close enough to flame to feel the heat, how can you know the source? You can only be authentic when you lead according to the principles that matter most to you. Otherwise you're just putting on an act.
Many leaders pour their efforts into many areas. Beyond their normal job, they may be passionate about a non-profit organization, passionate about an artistic hobby, or passionate about athletic endeavors. Being passionate in many areas of life is important to be an authentic leader.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Leaders Need Authentic Relationships
Dan Rockwell writes a great blog called Leadership Freak. He provides insight on a number of topics in the field of leadership.
Recently, he had a post on how leaders need authentic relationships with other leaders. One suggestion that Rockwell gives is "take the first step by opening up, authentically. Don’t spill your guts. Just toss a bit of your heart out."
I am trying to connect to other leaders, both inside and outside my company. More and more, I have been opening up to others. When others talk, I listen carefully to those small "bits of their hearts." Sometimes, I ask them more details about those comments later.
Max De Pree talks about how many aspects of leadership are fragile. Authentic connections are fragile. A lot of care is needed to start them and a lot of care is needed to nurture them.
Recently, he had a post on how leaders need authentic relationships with other leaders. One suggestion that Rockwell gives is "take the first step by opening up, authentically. Don’t spill your guts. Just toss a bit of your heart out."
I am trying to connect to other leaders, both inside and outside my company. More and more, I have been opening up to others. When others talk, I listen carefully to those small "bits of their hearts." Sometimes, I ask them more details about those comments later.
Max De Pree talks about how many aspects of leadership are fragile. Authentic connections are fragile. A lot of care is needed to start them and a lot of care is needed to nurture them.
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Kubrick and "The Making of The Shining"
I have been reviewing some of Stanley Kubrick's work. Kubrick is a great example of a visionary and someone strongly driven by passion.
As part of the "Stanley Kubrick Collection" on VHS, "The Shining" stars off with "The Making of The Shining" by Stanley's wife, Vivian Kubrick.
Two particular scenes stood out.
As part of the "Stanley Kubrick Collection" on VHS, "The Shining" stars off with "The Making of The Shining" by Stanley's wife, Vivian Kubrick.
Two particular scenes stood out.
- At a large table, Jack Nicholson is reviewing lines at one corner, Shelley Duvall is reviewing lines at another corner, and Stanley Kubrick is typing new script revisions at another corner. There are several points in "The Making of The Shining" where they discuss the on-going evolution of the script.
- There is one scene in the movie where Nicholson is locked in a walk-in freeze and he is talking to Duvall. In planning the scene, Stanley Kubrick is looking for the best angle to film. He finally decides on lying down with a camera under Nicholas who is leaning against the freeze door.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Education and Attracting Success
"Success is not to be pursued; it is to be attracted by the person we become.” — Jim Rohn
This is the basis for self-improvement and education. This concept separates those who merely attend and those who internalize a topic. How many people do you know who attended a class, seminar, or training, but really don't absorb much.
Some people debate the value of higher education. One of the key results of a college degree or a graduate degree is to put oneself in a mindset so that future success can be easily attracted. Education helps one see value in things which may be easily overlooked. There may be an idea, a conversation, a book, or an event that an educated, curious person will able to use as a growth opportunity.
This is the basis for self-improvement and education. This concept separates those who merely attend and those who internalize a topic. How many people do you know who attended a class, seminar, or training, but really don't absorb much.
Some people debate the value of higher education. One of the key results of a college degree or a graduate degree is to put oneself in a mindset so that future success can be easily attracted. Education helps one see value in things which may be easily overlooked. There may be an idea, a conversation, a book, or an event that an educated, curious person will able to use as a growth opportunity.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Walt Disney's Support of the Military in WWII
Walt Disney: An American Original by Bob Thomas (Simon & Schuster, 1976) is a good business biography. It covers Disney's life, often highlighting his passion to entertain people, the power of his vision, and his creativity.
It was particularly interesting in describing Disney's support of the military in World War II. Several events stood out.
It was particularly interesting in describing Disney's support of the military in World War II. Several events stood out.
- Early in the war, Disney started making training videos for the War Industry as well as for the military. Some of his films included Four Methods of Flush Riveting for Lockheed Aircraft and Aircraft Carrier Landing Signals for the Navy.
- Disney was losing a lot of artist to the draft. The Draft Board assume that the artist were just making Mickey Mouse. Walt Disney decided to bring the Draft Board into the studio to see the war efforts. The Draft Board members had to be cleared by Army Intelligence, Naval Intelligence, and the FBI, and they were still areas of the studio which were off limit due to the top secret nature of the work. The Draft Board changed its mind and re-assigned drafted employees back to Disney Studios.
- Walt Disney was a big fan of the book Victory Through Air Power by Alexander de Seversky. Disney worked with de Seversky to make a film about the principles in the book. Roosevelt and Churchill saw the film in the summer of 1943. The film is credited with the increased role of air power in the D-Day invasion.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Supermarket Changes in San Fernando Valley
There are a few changes occurring with supermarkets in San Fernando Valley. First, the San Fernando Valley Business Journal recently ran an article about the closing of three Albertsons Supermarket locations. The locations include one at Van Nuys Boulevard and Sherman Way in Van Nuys; one at Devonshire Street and Reseda Boulevard in Northridge; and the location at Central Avenue and Chevy Chase Drive in Glendale.
A major renovation is occurring at the Ralph's Supermarket at Ventura and Hazeltine in Sherman Oaks. Several posts at Curbed LA discuss the long battle for the project's approval.
A major renovation is occurring at the Ralph's Supermarket at Ventura and Hazeltine in Sherman Oaks. Several posts at Curbed LA discuss the long battle for the project's approval.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Art in Los Angeles: Great Time
Zocalo Public Square sponsored a panel discussion in Los Angeles Grand Park on the topics of How Can L.A.’s Art Museums Thrive? One of the panelists was Los Angeles County Museum of Art Director Michael Govan. Govan had two good comments lon the state of art in Los Angeles. (Rough quotes.)
"If you include the visual arts in Hollywood along with the other artists, photographers, and sculptors, there are more artists in Los Angeles now than in any city ever in history."
"Los Angeles museums are often compared to New York musuems. Most Los Angeles museums are much younger and only now coming into their own. Los Angeles museums now are growing and evolving like the New York museums of the 1940's, 1950's, and 1960's."
Govan feels that overall this is a great time to be involved in art in Los Angeles.
"If you include the visual arts in Hollywood along with the other artists, photographers, and sculptors, there are more artists in Los Angeles now than in any city ever in history."
"Los Angeles museums are often compared to New York musuems. Most Los Angeles museums are much younger and only now coming into their own. Los Angeles museums now are growing and evolving like the New York museums of the 1940's, 1950's, and 1960's."
Govan feels that overall this is a great time to be involved in art in Los Angeles.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Multi-Faceted Careers
Most of use realize that the economy and the career world has changed. One no longer gets a college degree in Field X, the gets a job in Field X, and then works for 40 years in that job until retirement.
Adam Richardson had a good post today on Harvard Business Review (HBR.com), entitled "Lessons from a Career, Interrupted." He explains his own career path mixing design work and research. His challenge was some companies could not see the role for a "hybrid" employee. Richardson points out that such multi-faceted hybrid professional are often the one able to approach and solve unique problems.
There are two aspects of my own career that I would recommend to others who are interested in a multi-faceted career and are in the early preparation stage or in a later transitional stage.
Experimental Science Research: Often, experimental research involves hands-on equipment work beyond the scientific problem being explored. Many researchers become experts in machining, electronics, and programming just to study a different field. Learning these specialties gives someone the appreciation of the low-level details. Plus, they have the basic knowledge and common language to communicate with experts they need. Many careers today involve learning new skills to adjust to changes.
Small Business Operations: I have started up businesses as well as had core roles within independent departments. One quickly learns about accounting, human resources, payroll, marketing, vendor relations, IT, and facilities. Being involved in all aspects can be overwhelming, but the global view allows you to see synergies and advantages that may be misses.
Adam Richardson had a good post today on Harvard Business Review (HBR.com), entitled "Lessons from a Career, Interrupted." He explains his own career path mixing design work and research. His challenge was some companies could not see the role for a "hybrid" employee. Richardson points out that such multi-faceted hybrid professional are often the one able to approach and solve unique problems.
There are two aspects of my own career that I would recommend to others who are interested in a multi-faceted career and are in the early preparation stage or in a later transitional stage.
Experimental Science Research: Often, experimental research involves hands-on equipment work beyond the scientific problem being explored. Many researchers become experts in machining, electronics, and programming just to study a different field. Learning these specialties gives someone the appreciation of the low-level details. Plus, they have the basic knowledge and common language to communicate with experts they need. Many careers today involve learning new skills to adjust to changes.
Small Business Operations: I have started up businesses as well as had core roles within independent departments. One quickly learns about accounting, human resources, payroll, marketing, vendor relations, IT, and facilities. Being involved in all aspects can be overwhelming, but the global view allows you to see synergies and advantages that may be misses.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Questions Leaders Should Expect: De Pree
Leaders should expect the following questions from their followers.
From Leadership Jazz by Max De Pree (New York, Dell Publishing, 1992).
Max De Pree was CEO of Herman Miller and guided it to outstanding levels in terms of Top Companies to Work For and Most Profitable Companies. In his writings, he takes examples from Herman Miller to convey solid leadership principles.
From the eight questions above, "Can I achieve my own goals by following you?" is a very challenging one for leaders to address with their followers. Each follower has a list of distinct goals.
The first step for the leader is to build the trust so that the follower can openly share. This will take time and constant work. Consider the interview situation. One common question for the candidate is "What are your goals." Everyone knows the answer will be slanted toward what the hiring manger wants to hear. As the leader builds the relationship over time, the follower will feel comfortable to to go beyond the safe, generic interview goals and start sharing her true goals.
Once the leader learns the goals of the followers, the leaders should look for ways to bridge various activities to the activities of the organization. The leader should constantly expand their outlook so that they can see various connections. For example, if a follower has a goal to eventual start their own business, the leaders can introduce new roles and there connection to starting that new business.
- What may I expect from you?
- Can I achieve my own goals by following you?
- Will I reach my potential by working with you?
- Can I entrust my future to you?
- Have you bothered to prepare yourself for leadership?
- Are you ready to be ruthlessly honest?
- Do you have the self-confidence and trust to let me do my job?
- What do you believe?
From Leadership Jazz by Max De Pree (New York, Dell Publishing, 1992).
Max De Pree was CEO of Herman Miller and guided it to outstanding levels in terms of Top Companies to Work For and Most Profitable Companies. In his writings, he takes examples from Herman Miller to convey solid leadership principles.
From the eight questions above, "Can I achieve my own goals by following you?" is a very challenging one for leaders to address with their followers. Each follower has a list of distinct goals.
The first step for the leader is to build the trust so that the follower can openly share. This will take time and constant work. Consider the interview situation. One common question for the candidate is "What are your goals." Everyone knows the answer will be slanted toward what the hiring manger wants to hear. As the leader builds the relationship over time, the follower will feel comfortable to to go beyond the safe, generic interview goals and start sharing her true goals.
Once the leader learns the goals of the followers, the leaders should look for ways to bridge various activities to the activities of the organization. The leader should constantly expand their outlook so that they can see various connections. For example, if a follower has a goal to eventual start their own business, the leaders can introduce new roles and there connection to starting that new business.
Monday, September 3, 2012
Watercolor Comparison: Boyle and Leven, North Hollywood
"Two Friends, Two Artists"
The personal watercolors of production designers Robert F. Boyle and Boris Leven
Until 8 September
Gallery800 at the Lankershim Arts Center
Robert Boyle is best known for work on North by Northwest and Fiddler on the Roof.
Boris Leven is best known for work on The Sound of Music and West Side Story.
As friends and classmates from USC, they would take outings and both paint watercolors of the same scene. The exhibit at Gallery 800 shows side by side some of these works depicting rural California and Los Angeles. Some picture are Baldwin Hills Oil Fields, others are barns and farmyards.
www.gallery800.com
A link to the exhibit webpage is here: http://www.adg.org/?store=art&art=boyle_leven
The personal watercolors of production designers Robert F. Boyle and Boris Leven
Until 8 September
Gallery800 at the Lankershim Arts Center
Robert Boyle is best known for work on North by Northwest and Fiddler on the Roof.
Boris Leven is best known for work on The Sound of Music and West Side Story.
As friends and classmates from USC, they would take outings and both paint watercolors of the same scene. The exhibit at Gallery 800 shows side by side some of these works depicting rural California and Los Angeles. Some picture are Baldwin Hills Oil Fields, others are barns and farmyards.
www.gallery800.com
A link to the exhibit webpage is here: http://www.adg.org/?store=art&art=boyle_leven
 |
| From Galley800 Website |
Monday, May 28, 2012
Memorial Day in Los Angeles: Drive Sepulveda
There are many ways to celebrate and honor the true purpose of Memorial Day in the Los Angeles area. I suggest a simple drive to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day. Drive Sepulveda Boulevard between Ventura and Wilshire. This short drive passes three important landmarks.
Los Angeles National Cemetary: On Memorial Day, flags are placed on every grave site. Veterans have been buried here from 1889 to 1973. There is no better place to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day.
The Getty Center: One of the foundations of American Culture is to give to the greater good. What the Getty Foundation started and has developed is one of the great art institutions in the world. American Military sacrifices have been made to protect American Culture and way of life.
Skirball Cultural Center: Not only is the Skirball a major cultural institution in Los Angeles, it has the primary goal to focus on Jewish Culture and History. American involvement in World War II helped prevent further horrors of the Holocaust.
Los Angeles National Cemetary: On Memorial Day, flags are placed on every grave site. Veterans have been buried here from 1889 to 1973. There is no better place to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day.
The Getty Center: One of the foundations of American Culture is to give to the greater good. What the Getty Foundation started and has developed is one of the great art institutions in the world. American Military sacrifices have been made to protect American Culture and way of life.
Skirball Cultural Center: Not only is the Skirball a major cultural institution in Los Angeles, it has the primary goal to focus on Jewish Culture and History. American involvement in World War II helped prevent further horrors of the Holocaust.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
1945 National Geographic--Borneo Housewife
I came across this interesting book, Mark Jenkins, editor, Worlds to Explore: Classic Tales of Travel & Adventure from National Geographic (Washington, National Geographic Society, 2006). It is a collection of articles in National Geographic Magazine, including Theodore Roosevelt on Africa in 1911, Edmund Hillary on Everest in 1954, and Anne Morrow Lindbergh on North Atlantic Flight in 1934, among other adventurers.
One article that caught my attention immediate was "Keeping House in Borneo" by Virginia Hamilton (a.k.a. Mrs. Gerrit Middelberg) in September 1945. She gives a great account of living in Borneo by someone who lived there full time. The beauty and challenges of the wildlife as well as the diversity of the plants.
One quote caused me to laugh: "Four inch centipedes were at home in the dampness under potted plants, making gardening not always pleasant. Wooly spiders and black scorpions sometimes found their way indoors. But when I found five young cobras in three days sunning themselves on the doorsill and realized tht the parents must be near by, I nearly moved out . . . "
One article that caught my attention immediate was "Keeping House in Borneo" by Virginia Hamilton (a.k.a. Mrs. Gerrit Middelberg) in September 1945. She gives a great account of living in Borneo by someone who lived there full time. The beauty and challenges of the wildlife as well as the diversity of the plants.
One quote caused me to laugh: "Four inch centipedes were at home in the dampness under potted plants, making gardening not always pleasant. Wooly spiders and black scorpions sometimes found their way indoors. But when I found five young cobras in three days sunning themselves on the doorsill and realized tht the parents must be near by, I nearly moved out . . . "
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Group Artist Demonstration at Autry; California Art Club
A link to the Art Club Event is here: http://www.californiaartclub.org/2012/02/paint-outsculpt-out-at-the-autry/
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Og Mandino on Self-Esteem
From The Greatest Miracle in the World by Og Mandino (1975)
Why are we unhappy? I will repeat it for you. We are unhappy because we no longer have our self-esteem. We are unhappy because we no longer believe we are a special miracle, a special creation of God. We have become cattle, numbers, punch cards, slaves, ghetto residents all. We look in our mirrors and no longer see the godlike qualities that once were so evident. We have lost faith in ourselves. We have really evolved into the naked apes that Desmond Morris wrote about.
Why are we unhappy? I will repeat it for you. We are unhappy because we no longer have our self-esteem. We are unhappy because we no longer believe we are a special miracle, a special creation of God. We have become cattle, numbers, punch cards, slaves, ghetto residents all. We look in our mirrors and no longer see the godlike qualities that once were so evident. We have lost faith in ourselves. We have really evolved into the naked apes that Desmond Morris wrote about.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Beating Heart Cadavers--Discover Magazine
The cover story of the May issue of Discover Magazine deals with how beating heart cadavers are used for organ donations. It gives a good overview on the evolving medical definitions of "dead". In the past several years, about 22 women who were brain dead were still able to gestate a fetus, including one case of 107 days after brain death.
Another blog post on Democratic Underground touches on the issues raised in the article: http://www.democraticunderground.com/1002467953
Another blog post on Democratic Underground touches on the issues raised in the article: http://www.democraticunderground.com/1002467953
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Favorite Quotes for 2012
There is no such thing as a problem without a gift for you in its hands. You seek problems because you need their gifts.
--Richard Bach
Quiet leadership is not an oxymoron.
--Susan Cain
Commitment is an act, not a word.
--Jean-Paul Sartre
Life is one long training session in preparation for what will come. Life and death lose their meaning; there are only challenges to be met with joy and overcome with tranquility.
--Paulo Coelho
Argue your limitations, and sure enough, they're yours
--Richard Bach
--Richard Bach
Quiet leadership is not an oxymoron.
--Susan Cain
Commitment is an act, not a word.
--Jean-Paul Sartre
Life is one long training session in preparation for what will come. Life and death lose their meaning; there are only challenges to be met with joy and overcome with tranquility.
--Paulo Coelho
Argue your limitations, and sure enough, they're yours
--Richard Bach
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