Same words yet different

Maya had to fire someone this week: two conversations, same message, different outcomes. First attempt: “Your performance isn’t meeting expectations. We’re letting you go.” The employee stormed out. Posted on social media and called colleagues....

Being direct

Most leaders think being direct is harsh. They’re wrong. Steve Jobs killed projects with two words: “It’s sh(one)t.” His team knew exactly where they stood. No false hope. No mixed signals. No, wondering if maybe next quarter would be...

Corruption’s innocuous beginnings

Corruption isn’t just about politicians stuffing briefcases with cash.. It starts when you skip the difficult conversation because it’s uncomfortable, when you hire your friend instead of the best candidate, and when you bend the process “just this...

Built to last miles

24 hours at Le Mans each June reveals what separates champions from casualties. It’s not the blistering start. Not the early lead. Not even the spectacular overtakes that grab headlines. Winners minimize mistakes. They follow procedures. They stay consistent...

The reality gap

You built a story about yourself. Then you started believing it. The metrics you ignore. The feedback you dismiss. The reality you’ve decided doesn’t apply to you. Your team nods along because challenging the narrative feels dangerous. Your advisors tell...