Ideas that Matter

“He who has learned to disagree without being disagreeable has discovered the most valuable secret of negotiation.”  Chris Voss, Never Split the Difference As I sat in front of my screen speaking to a potential client, I felt confident in my understanding of... read more

“Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.” ― Carl Jung THE IDEA: Last week I observed an executive at O’Hare Airport monopolizing a conversation with a peer for over 30 minutes. This was a one-man monologue... read more

Fear is only as deep as the mind allows. -Japanese Proverb THE IDEA:  Do you feel defensive or fearful, safeguarding yourself, secretly not wanting to get hurt?  Does that sound familiar?  Last Monday morning, I revisited my orthopedic surgeon who replaced my knee years... read more

“When the ideas are coming, I don’t stop until the ideas stop because  hat train doesn’t come along all the time.” - DR. DRE I always have my eyes open for dark horses, the come-from-behind winners that no one expects. I... read more

If you want something new, you have to stop something old.” Peter Drucker THE IDEA: I lead six monthly leadership share groups covering 75 Vice President and Director level leaders in our industry.   During my most recent group discussions I was not surprised to hear the following comments. “I... read more

“If you want something new, you have to stop something old.” Peter Drucker Are you comfortable changing your mind? This week I had the opportunity to lead a coaching discussion with a client who has enjoyed decades of success, personal accolades, and carries... read more

A trap in dealing with difficult people is getting wrapped up in their personality. - Tara Stiles THE IDEA: To be courageous and bold, yet thoughtful, when coaching a challenging teammate is one of the most difficult skills in our lives today.... read more

"Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” – Neale Donald Walsch Recently one of my friends shared how she was avoiding difficult discussions with her boss because of his insecurities and inability to receive feedback. Anytime her boss was opposed,... read more

“When we are no longer able to change a situation – we are challenged to change ourselves” - Viktor E. Frankl THE IDEA: A friend of mine recently pulled me aside at a conference and lovingly challenged me: “Dan, I don’t think... read more

THE IDEA: Last week an old friend of mine grabbed my arm and shared “The game has changed, and I am not sure I am up for this anymore.” My friend is accomplished, respected, loved by his peers, very purpose... read more