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One simple word can make all the difference. AND. By definition, “and” is a conjunction which ties together two words, clauses or concepts that are intended to be taken together. For example, “love AND marriage,” “bread AND butter,” “fear and loathing.” Today’s society seems to have forgotten that two constructs can be held together at …

The Power of “AND” Read More »

“I probably shouldn’t say this.” Then don’t. Then ask yourself the following questions: Will what I say next add value to the conversation? Will what I say next solve a problem? Will what I say next contribute to the discussion in a positive way? The answer to each of these questions is likely to be …

I probably shouldn’t say this… Read More »

I haven’t shared this story with many people. But, now seems like the right time to do so. Seven years ago, I attended a prominent, week-long executive leadership institute for community college administrators. A small group of us had the privilege of listening to some of the most respected and well-known leaders of the community …

Words Matter…Time to Tell My Untold Story Read More »

Dear Smart People, Smart People Think They’re Right, but the Most Effective Entrepreneurs Assume They’re Wrong, by Jeff Haden is definitely worth the read – and not just for entrepreneurs. If you are not an entrepreneur, don’t let the title make you think this doesn’t apply to you. Leaders, teachers, students, preachers, politicians, parents, doctors, …

Too Smart for Our Own Good? Read More »

Expecting or desiring something to happen is the basic tenet of hope. As a kid, you may have hoped for a special Christmas present; hoped the boy you had a crush on would notice you; or hoped to get a passing grade on a tough exam. Hope seemed so simple then. Hope is still a …

H.O.P.E. for Humanity Read More »

Shouldn’t the word “leadership” stand on its own? Why do we qualify “leadership” with the word “good” or “bad?” I’ve been wrestling with this leadership question. If “bad” has to be placed in front of the word “leadership,” does that which is being described even qualify as leadership at all? What if instead of referring …

Is “Good Leadership” Redundant? Read More »

Being a good follower is as equally important as being a good leader. Most people play both roles, leader and follower. Being good at both will make a difference, especially in a crisis scenario. After all, following is ultimately an act of leadership. As I strive to be a better follower, below are beliefs I …

Be a Good Follower Read More »

Beliefs–what a person holds to be true or real, whether true or real–are the basis of a powerful paradox of the human existence. A classic tale that demonstrates this is Hans Christian Andersen’s, The Ugly Duckling. Accidentally hatched in a barnyard, the Ugly Duckling was bullied because he didn’t look like the other ducklings. He …

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Yes. That is a picture of my trash. It is filled with garbage, discarded food, dust bunnies and debris from sweeping the floor, and even Buddy’s poop, the rescue dog who still struggles with going outside to do his business. On top of the smelly heap are the remains of broken and beloved Christmas decorations. …

Broken – But Not Forgotten Read More »

A common complaint among college faculty and administrators is about the audacious expectations of some (albeit not all) college students. These expectations get translated as “students are so entitled these days!” They are the source of much head shaking and the impetus for conversations that start with “when I was in school I would never…”. …

Yes! College Students Are Entitled Read More »