The false ally to success

The ego—always lurking in the shadows, whispering sweet promises of greatness. Is our ego our ally, or is it just a cunning trickster leading us astray? We live in a world where self-promotion and personal branding are celebrated. We’re taught that success is...

Advanced assumptions

Friendliness is terrific, as is being invited. However, even those can go too far too soon, especially when we assume and take it a step further. What is appropriate and what is not? When you receive an email from a newsletter subscription titled “Hey friend ..” do...

Winners and whiners talk

Robin van Persie, the retired Dutch national team hero, was reflecting on a conversation with his son, who plays youth soccer/football for Ajax, the top club in the Netherlands. His son did not play in a game and complained about the coach, his teammates, the lack of...

Barking patterns

The antics of dogs are intriguing, and many mirror human behaviors. Creating a hierarchy, the desire to be part of a pack and belong regardless of shape and size, and having best friends. Fortunately, some similarities stop short of going too far – sniffing comes to...

Ignorance and negligence

No one expects anyone to know everything, nor should we expect that of ourselves. But, while being attentive, we will likely discover that we learn something new each day – some lessons small while others of significance. And so we progress. When we are aware or...