Category: Articles

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Leadership in an Age of Uncertainty

The Romans wondered whether force or inspiration was more effective as a motivator. Our own culture glorifies the charismatic while preaching participation. Interest in…

Changing Organizational Culture from a Liability to an Asset

In a commentary on the OP-Ed page of the New York Times entitled “Failure Is Always an Option” (August 2003), Henry Petroski, a civil…

Organizational Politics: Using Your Power for Good

What do you think of when you consider corporate politics? Do you think of backstabbing, gossip, and self-interest, or do you think of alliance…

From Indicators to Action: The Systems Thinking Bridge

How well do you know your local area? Most people rely on a bewildering thicket of newspaper articles, TV news, and radio programs that…

Six Principles for 21st-Century Leaders

In my 15+ years of work with organizations and senior executives, I have found six principles, derived from spiritual literature, to be quite helpful…

Shifting the Unwritten Rules of Organizational Behavior

As many organizations are discovering, sustainable corporate change can be elusive. Why? Because we often fail to ensure that our organization’s “unwritten rules” the…

Being Heard: Strategies for Getting Your Point Across

We all want to be heard. It’s gratifying, empowering, and makes us feel valued. And in a difference of opinion, we want our side…

From Students to Citizens and Workers: An Interview with Deborah Meier

You and some colleagues are on a retreat, discussing long-term strategies for your organization. As the hour grows late, someone brings up the issue…

The Conversational Power of Mapping Our Mental Models

Suppose that I bought a $34 ticket to hear a concert and, on the way to the event, I lost the ticket. I…

Attention Not Energy

When you face something unpleasant, give it your attention but not your energy.” This is one of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever…