The news reports are telling residents to leave town. The authorities are feverishly going around the city to gather up those who don’t have the means to do it themselves and all the while Bill has decided he is going to stay in his home and wait out the storm.
Stubborn rarely wins
A few hours later the rain is coming down in sheets. Bill is forced out of his home and onto his roof where the water is now five feet deep on his street. Two police officers in a motorboat come by to rescue Bill and bring him to safety. Bill declines their offer and proclaims; “God will send me a sign!”
Several hours later, the water is now at Bill’s waist as he struggles to survive on his now submerged roof. Another police boat comes to rescue him and take him to safety. He again says “No thank-you, God will send me a sign”. A half hour later, Bill drowns.
Pondering minds wonder
Bill is shocked and says; “Why didn’t you send me a sign?”
God replies; “I sent you two boats!”
How often do we ignore the help we need in our quest for the clear path? How do we miss those signs that are there to guide us when we’re looking for guidance? How often are we quick to help others but not as swift to accept help from them in return?
The help we seek can often be right in front of us.
__________________________________________________________________
Showing posts with label guidance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label guidance. Show all posts
October 12, 2018
August 27, 2018
Bossorius Leadium
A document was discovered several years ago that wasn't dated and didn't have an author’s name on it but from the language, it seemed to be quite old. Recently, I discovered a second document with some additional information that seems to be related to the first one. These could be the earliest known documents on leadership.
Scaredycate Closedoorius | This is the manager who has an “open door policy” when no one is actually in her office. Once the meeting begins, doors are sealed. Anything discussed in meetings are translated to staff, customers, or clients as her ideas.
Likedbyallorus Neediad | Great guy who always has time for you but he deals with no real crises. Any actual staff conflict, culture concerns, or client issues are swept neatly under the finely appointed corporate non-answer area rug.
Speakius Nonactium | She seems to have great ideas that never see the light of day past the promise of will be and someday. The plan sounds promising enough so everyone involved think this time she may be on to something but the pattern of no follow through returns.
Unwantiate Inputarium | Embossed on the front is the phrase “Our People Are Our Strongest Asset”. Through the threshold of the lobby is where that mantra dies a rapid painful death to make room for his benevolent dictatorship.
Whathesaysits Collaboratorus | Employees are reminded the importance of teamwork when his ideas aren’t executed void of input from the team. Significant regular staff erosion is blamed on others.
Lackus Spinearia | She enjoys sitting in her corner office praising people when things are good but is unable to make one concrete decision of any substance that will actually move the company forward.
Perhaps you recognize someone.
__________________________________________________________________
Scaredycate Closedoorius | This is the manager who has an “open door policy” when no one is actually in her office. Once the meeting begins, doors are sealed. Anything discussed in meetings are translated to staff, customers, or clients as her ideas.
Likedbyallorus Neediad | Great guy who always has time for you but he deals with no real crises. Any actual staff conflict, culture concerns, or client issues are swept neatly under the finely appointed corporate non-answer area rug.
Speakius Nonactium | She seems to have great ideas that never see the light of day past the promise of will be and someday. The plan sounds promising enough so everyone involved think this time she may be on to something but the pattern of no follow through returns.
Unwantiate Inputarium | Embossed on the front is the phrase “Our People Are Our Strongest Asset”. Through the threshold of the lobby is where that mantra dies a rapid painful death to make room for his benevolent dictatorship.
Whathesaysits Collaboratorus | Employees are reminded the importance of teamwork when his ideas aren’t executed void of input from the team. Significant regular staff erosion is blamed on others.
Lackus Spinearia | She enjoys sitting in her corner office praising people when things are good but is unable to make one concrete decision of any substance that will actually move the company forward.
Perhaps you recognize someone.
__________________________________________________________________
June 4, 2016
Missing the Signs
This came up in a conversation again this week so it's a review.
The news reports are telling residents to leave town. The authorities are feverishly going around the city to gather up those who don’t have the means to do it themselves and all the while Bill has decided he is going to stay in his home and wait out the storm.
Stubborn rarely wins
A few hours later the rain is coming down in sheets. Bill is forced out of his home and onto his roof where the water is now five feet deep on his street. Two police officers in a motorboat come by to rescue Bill and bring him to safety. Bill declines their offer and proclaims; “God will send me a sign!”
Several hours later, the water is now at Bill’s waist as he struggles to survive on his now submerged roof. Another police boat comes to rescue him and take him to safety. He again says “No thank-you, God will send me a sign”. A half hour later, Bill drowns.
Pondering minds wonder
Bill is shocked and says; “Why didn’t you send me a sign?”
God replies; “I sent you two boats!”
How often do we ignore the help we need in our quest for the clear path? How do we miss those signs that are there to guide us when we’re looking for guidance? How often are we quick to help others but not as swift to accept help from them in return?
The help we seek can often be right in front of us.
__________________________________________________________________
The news reports are telling residents to leave town. The authorities are feverishly going around the city to gather up those who don’t have the means to do it themselves and all the while Bill has decided he is going to stay in his home and wait out the storm.
Stubborn rarely wins
A few hours later the rain is coming down in sheets. Bill is forced out of his home and onto his roof where the water is now five feet deep on his street. Two police officers in a motorboat come by to rescue Bill and bring him to safety. Bill declines their offer and proclaims; “God will send me a sign!”
Several hours later, the water is now at Bill’s waist as he struggles to survive on his now submerged roof. Another police boat comes to rescue him and take him to safety. He again says “No thank-you, God will send me a sign”. A half hour later, Bill drowns.
Pondering minds wonder
Bill is shocked and says; “Why didn’t you send me a sign?”
God replies; “I sent you two boats!”
How often do we ignore the help we need in our quest for the clear path? How do we miss those signs that are there to guide us when we’re looking for guidance? How often are we quick to help others but not as swift to accept help from them in return?
The help we seek can often be right in front of us.
__________________________________________________________________
June 19, 2015
Asking for Help
I had a great chat last week with a good friend. She said I wasn’t being open enough here on my website and I wasn’t putting enough skin in the game for you to understand my point of view and share more of me. She made some great points.
Then this week, I had one of those life conversations with my best friend. We’ve known each other since high school. It’s a rich relationship. No topic is off-limits. We talk about careers and relationships, music and cars, dreams and wishes, and we have been there for each other through the ups and downs over 35 years.
We’re often asked how we became friends because we are so different. He is analytical and I am emotional. He is a math guy and I’m a creative guy. But we find common ground and enjoy the differences each bring to the friendship.
Upon Reflection
Both conversations were actually about me and I didn’t realize it until a few days later. I am in the process of reviewing my entire career, my life, my relationships, and my work. I have been through the most transformative year of my life. Both know me well and in their own way outlined that I wasn’t believing in myself as much as others do or as much as I believe in others!
Then I had a call yesterday with a colleague in Seattle I met on the social web. We don’t know each other that well but it was a fantastic conversation about where each of us is and where we want to be in our lives. We became fast friends a couple of years ago and though we don’t talk often, it’s one of those relationships that you can go months without talking then pick it up like it was yesterday.
Two-Way Street
The real takeaway from all three conversations was that I enjoy helping others but have a terrible time asking for help. She asked how she could help me write stronger posts. My best friend offered to introduce me to two new clients and told me he will help anyway he can. And my Seattle friend ended the call with a genuine; “Let me know what you need from me”.
I finally slowed down for five seconds and realized three people who were offering to help me. We are told that a stiff upper lip, smile on our face, and shoulders back is the way to go. We aren’t allowed to be unsure or ask a friend for advice or guidance. And frankly, that’s a bunch of crap! Offer help and ask for help.
Your relationships and your life will be richer for it!
__________________________________________________________________
Kneale Mann | People + Priority = Profit
Then this week, I had one of those life conversations with my best friend. We’ve known each other since high school. It’s a rich relationship. No topic is off-limits. We talk about careers and relationships, music and cars, dreams and wishes, and we have been there for each other through the ups and downs over 35 years.
We’re often asked how we became friends because we are so different. He is analytical and I am emotional. He is a math guy and I’m a creative guy. But we find common ground and enjoy the differences each bring to the friendship.
Upon Reflection
Both conversations were actually about me and I didn’t realize it until a few days later. I am in the process of reviewing my entire career, my life, my relationships, and my work. I have been through the most transformative year of my life. Both know me well and in their own way outlined that I wasn’t believing in myself as much as others do or as much as I believe in others!
Then I had a call yesterday with a colleague in Seattle I met on the social web. We don’t know each other that well but it was a fantastic conversation about where each of us is and where we want to be in our lives. We became fast friends a couple of years ago and though we don’t talk often, it’s one of those relationships that you can go months without talking then pick it up like it was yesterday.
Two-Way Street
The real takeaway from all three conversations was that I enjoy helping others but have a terrible time asking for help. She asked how she could help me write stronger posts. My best friend offered to introduce me to two new clients and told me he will help anyway he can. And my Seattle friend ended the call with a genuine; “Let me know what you need from me”.
I finally slowed down for five seconds and realized three people who were offering to help me. We are told that a stiff upper lip, smile on our face, and shoulders back is the way to go. We aren’t allowed to be unsure or ask a friend for advice or guidance. And frankly, that’s a bunch of crap! Offer help and ask for help.
Your relationships and your life will be richer for it!
__________________________________________________________________
Kneale Mann | People + Priority = Profit
June 16, 2015
Feeding the Good Wolf
One evening a man told his grandson about a struggle that goes on inside people. He wanted to illustrate the internal conflict each of us has and the choices we make to navigate that battle. The story can help us in life, in business, and in ourselves.
He said; “The battle is between two wolves inside us all. One is evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is good. It is joy, peace, love, serenity, humility, hope, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, compassion and faith.”
The grandson then asked; “Which wolf wins?”
The man replied; “The one you feed.”
It can be money, careers, business, friendships, every aspect of our lives; you and I have both had challenges. Some we took on and won while others felt like they were going to defeat us.
When I've felt sorry for myself and done nothing about it, the results aren't too positive. When I've asked for help - as I did with some colleagues recently - it works out better. There are times when it's not easy to feed the good wolf.
But let's keep trying!
__________________________________________________________________
Kneale Mann | People + Priority = Profit
He said; “The battle is between two wolves inside us all. One is evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is good. It is joy, peace, love, serenity, humility, hope, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, compassion and faith.”
The grandson then asked; “Which wolf wins?”
The man replied; “The one you feed.”
It can be money, careers, business, friendships, every aspect of our lives; you and I have both had challenges. Some we took on and won while others felt like they were going to defeat us.
When I've felt sorry for myself and done nothing about it, the results aren't too positive. When I've asked for help - as I did with some colleagues recently - it works out better. There are times when it's not easy to feed the good wolf.
But let's keep trying!
__________________________________________________________________
Kneale Mann | People + Priority = Profit
May 4, 2014
Send Us a Sign
The news reports are telling residents to leave town. The authorities are feverishly going around the city to gather up those who don’t have the means to do it themselves and all the while Bill has decided he is going to stay in his home and wait out the storm.
Below the Waterline
A few hours later the rain is coming down in sheets. Bill is forced out of his home and onto his roof where the water is now five feet deep on his street. Two police officers in a motorboat come by to rescue Bill and bring him to safety. Bill declines their offer and proclaims; “God will send me a sign!”
Several hours later, the water is now at Bill’s waist as he struggles to survive on his now submerged roof. Another police boat comes to rescue him and take him to safety. He again says “No thank-you, God will send me a sign”. A half hour later, Bill drowns.
Searching for Answers
Bill is shocked and says; “Why didn’t you send me a sign?”
God replies; “I sent you two boats!”
How often do we ignore the help we need in our quest for the clear path? How do we miss those signs that are there to guide us when we’re looking for guidance? How often are we quick to help others but not as swift to accept help from them in return?
Let's get in the boat
__________________________________________________________________
Kneale Mann | Leadership Strategist, consultant, writer, speaker, executive coach facilitating performance growth with leaders, management, and teams.
fineart america
April 7, 2014
Leadership Lessons from the Past
A few years ago, I found a document that wasn't dated and didn't have an author’s name on it but from the language, it seemed to be quite old. Recently, I discovered a second document with some additional information that seems to be related to the first one. These could be the earliest known documents on leadership. Scaredycate Closedoorius
This is the manager who has an “open door policy” when no one is actually in her office. Once the meeting begins, doors are sealed. Anything discussed in meetings are translated to staff, customers, or clients as her ideas.
Likedbyallorus Neediad
Great guy who always has time for you but he deals with no real crises. Any actual staff conflict, culture concerns, or client issues are swept neatly under the finely appointed corporate non-answer area rug.
Speakius Nonactium
She seems to have great ideas that never see the light of day past the promise of will be and someday. The plan sounds promising enough so everyone involved think this time she may be on to something but the pattern of no follow through returns.
Unwantiate Inputarium
Embossed on the front is the phrase “Our People Are Our Strongest Asset”. Through the threshold of the lobby is where that mantra dies a rapid painful death to make room for his benevolent dictatorship.
Whathesaysits Collaboratorus
Employees are reminded the importance of teamwork when his ideas aren’t executed void of input from the team. Significant regular staff erosion is blamed on others.
Lackus Spinearia
She enjoys sitting in her corner office praising people when things are good but is unable to make one concrete decision of any substance that will actually move the company forward.
Perhaps you recognize someone.
__________________________________________________________________
Kneale Mann | Leadership Strategist, consultant, writer, speaker, executive coach facilitating performance growth with leaders, management, and teams.
istock
June 22, 2013
Choices
One evening a man told his grandson about a struggle that goes on inside people. He wanted to illustrate the internal conflict each of us has and the choices we make to navigate that battle. The story can help us in life, in business, and in ourselves. He said; “The battle is between two wolves inside us all. One is evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is good. It is joy, peace, love, serenity, humility, hope, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, compassion and faith.”
The grandson then asked; “Which wolf wins?”
The man replied; “The one you feed.”
In our lives, careers, or businesses, the choice is up to us.
__________________________________________________________________
Kneale Mann | Leadership and Culture strategist, writer, speaker, executive coach engaging leaders, collaborative teams, and strong business results.
istock
March 8, 2013
The Economy of Your Culture
The industrial revolution brought progress and advancements but created the unbalance of power and wealth we have today. There is shift however that might be a bit radical and won't be endorsed by everyone right away but see what you think.The idea is to pay people fairly and give them guidance in a co-creative atmosphere where strengths are highlighted while a collaborative culture becomes the norm. And before anyone screams socialism, this is not to suggest we don't embrace success through hard work but we can also include more of the team in the process.
Let's Flip the Model
We've tried the top down approach for a couple of centuries and it will take some time to make the shift but in parts of the world where choice is both cherished and honored, changes are coming. Great culture and strong leadership will absolutely positively improve your business performance.
An example is some of our work with supply chain organizations. Leaders are discovering they can, should, and want to create more collaborative places whether they are developing mobile apps or making plastic bottles. People want to want to come to work no matter the industry no matter the job description.
Far too many for far too long have viewed work as simply a means to an end. Let's fix that.
Kneale Mann
relevancy22
February 4, 2013
Tale of Two Boats
The news reports are telling residents to leave town. The authorities are feverishly going around the city to gather up those who don’t have the means to do it themselves and all the while Bill has decided he is going to stay in his home and wait out the storm.
Below the Waterline
A few hours later the rain is coming down in sheets. Bill is forced out of his home and onto his roof where the water is now five feet deep on his street. Two police officers in a motorboat come by to rescue Bill and bring him to safety. Bill declines their offer and proclaims; “God will send me a sign!”
Several hours later, the water is now at Bill’s waist as he struggles to survive on his now submerged roof. Another police boat comes to rescue him and take him to safety. He again says “No thank-you, God will send me a sign”. A half hour later, Bill drowns.
Searching for Answers
Bill is shocked and says; “Why didn’t you send me a sign?”
God replies; “I sent you two boats!”
How often do we ignore what may not appear on the surface to be the help we need in our quest for the clear path? How do we miss those signs that are there to guide us when we’re looking for guidance? How often are we quick to help others but not as swift to accept help from them in return?
Let's get in the boat
Kneale Mann
euratlas
January 3, 2013
29 Ideas for Leaders
They will notice if you’re not carrying your weight. This is a team effort. Listen. If you say who's boss, you've lost the room. Be helpful. Help them improve their strengths. Share victories. If you think your ideas are always best, you don’t need a team.
Lead don’t manage. Each person is motivated differently.
Make it fun. Don’t let job titles get in the way. Say thank-you. Collaboration beats confrontation. Do as you say. Flexibility will garner better results. Remember you’re only as good as your team. Be fair and consistent.
The culture begins with you. Laugh often. Show grace under pressure.
Give the same guidance as you want from others. Know you don’t need to make every decision. Be present. Devote half of your time to their development.
Avoid temptation to take all the credit. Remember no one wants a boss. Keep in mind that group reprimands are not successful. Never stop learning
Leadership may be the most demanding, enjoyable and satisfying work you will ever do. Have fun!
Kneale Mann
2012 Top 10 - Aug 2012 | photos8
August 8, 2012
29 Ideas for Great Leaders
They will notice if you’re not carrying your weight. This is a team effort. Listen. If you say who's boss, you've lost the room. Be helpful. Help them improve their strengths. Share victories. If you think your ideas are always best, you don’t need a team.
Lead don’t manage. Each person is motivated differently.
Make it fun. Don’t let job titles get in the way. Say thank-you. Collaboration beats confrontation. Do as you say. Flexibility will garner better results. Remember you’re only as good as your team. Be fair and consistent.
The culture begins with you. Laugh often. Show grace under pressure.
Give the same guidance as you want from others. Know you don’t need to make every decision. Be present. Devote half of your time to their development.
Avoid temptation to take all the credit. Remember no one wants a boss. Keep in mind that group reprimands are not successful. Never stop learning
Leadership may be the most demanding, enjoyable and satisfying work you will ever do. Have fun!
Kneale Mann
luminouslandscape
October 9, 2011
Two Boats
The news reports are telling residents to leave town. The authorities are feverishly going around the city to gather up those who don’t have the means to do it themselves and all the while Bill has decided he is going to stay in his home and wait out the storm.
Below the Waterline
A few hours later the rain is coming down in sheets. Bill is forced out of his home and onto his roof where the water is now five feet deep on his street. Two police officers in a motorboat come by to rescue Bill and bring him to safety. Bill declines their offer and proclaims; “God will send me a sign!”
Several hours later, the water is now at Bill’s waist as he struggles to survive on his now submerged roof. Another police boat comes to rescue him and take him to safety. He again says “No thank-you, God will send me a sign”. A half hour later, Bill drowns.
Searching for Answers
In front of God, Bill is shocked and says; “Why didn’t you send me a sign?” and God replies; “I sent you two boats!”
How often do we ignore what may not appear on the surface to be the help we need in our quest for the clear path? How do we miss those signs that are there to guide us when we’re looking for guidance? How often are we quick to help others but not as swift to accept help from them in return?
Have you seen the boats?
Kneale Mann
image credit: sutherlandpartnership
June 12, 2011
Leadership | Centuries Ago
They May Still Live Among Us
I found a document a couple of years ago and mentioned it here. You may not have seen the post and I think it's imperative that you do. This could be the earliest known document on business strategy.
The authors, date and origin cannot be verified but the information is just as useful today as when it was first penned. The work discusses leadership types and perhaps pointing to its age and origin, the titles are in Latin.
Scaredycate Closedoorius
This is the manager who has an “open door policy” when no one is actually in her office. Once the meeting begins, doors are sealed. Anything discussed in meetings are filtered through the perception of the boss to then be translated to staff, customers or clients as her ideas.
Likedbyallorus Needium
Great guy, super guy, always smiling, always has time for you. He deals with no actual crises. When the bullets fly, he is unfortunately very busy with other issues. As long as things are rosy and fun it’s a great place to work but conflict or client issues are brushed neatly under the finely appointed corporate non-answer area rug.
Unwantiate Inputarium
The office is adorned with a bright four color bound document which outlines the company’s story, plans and mantra. Embossed on the front is the phrase “Our People Are Our Strongest Asset”. Through the threshold of the lobby is where that mantra dies a rapid painful death to make room for Unwantiate Inputarium’s benevolent dictatorship.
Lackus Spinearia
Much like Pompom Nobadnoos, this type of leader sits in his corner office praising people when things are good but is unable to make one concrete decision of any substance that will actually move the company forward. Some are amazed a human can stand upright with so little support in one's back. He thinks he’s pulling it off and fooling no one but the big boss, Vacatium Spinearia.
The best way to build a company is through strong respected and fair leadership, solid strategy and an atmosphere of co-creation but not everyone shares that view.
Recognize Anyone?
Kneale Mann
zdnet
The authors, date and origin cannot be verified but the information is just as useful today as when it was first penned. The work discusses leadership types and perhaps pointing to its age and origin, the titles are in Latin.
Scaredycate Closedoorius
This is the manager who has an “open door policy” when no one is actually in her office. Once the meeting begins, doors are sealed. Anything discussed in meetings are filtered through the perception of the boss to then be translated to staff, customers or clients as her ideas.
Likedbyallorus Needium
Great guy, super guy, always smiling, always has time for you. He deals with no actual crises. When the bullets fly, he is unfortunately very busy with other issues. As long as things are rosy and fun it’s a great place to work but conflict or client issues are brushed neatly under the finely appointed corporate non-answer area rug.
Unwantiate Inputarium
The office is adorned with a bright four color bound document which outlines the company’s story, plans and mantra. Embossed on the front is the phrase “Our People Are Our Strongest Asset”. Through the threshold of the lobby is where that mantra dies a rapid painful death to make room for Unwantiate Inputarium’s benevolent dictatorship.
Lackus Spinearia
Much like Pompom Nobadnoos, this type of leader sits in his corner office praising people when things are good but is unable to make one concrete decision of any substance that will actually move the company forward. Some are amazed a human can stand upright with so little support in one's back. He thinks he’s pulling it off and fooling no one but the big boss, Vacatium Spinearia.
The best way to build a company is through strong respected and fair leadership, solid strategy and an atmosphere of co-creation but not everyone shares that view.
Recognize Anyone?
Kneale Mann
zdnet
