The not-doing of power

by | Jun 23, 2023 | Newsletter

Way back in the 1980s, I spent a lot of time audiotaping meetings of people. I was researching power for my doctoral studies and listened to hours and hours of conversation between coworkers in various settings: meetings, informal discussions, social events. And...

Do you know what’s expected of you?

by | May 10, 2023 | Newsletter

It’s spring. And that means baseball season has just kicked off here in the States. And every year about this time, I’m reminded of the beloved, iconic baseball movie, Bull Durham. The film tells the story of a minor league baseball team who signs a gifted pitcher,...

You’re a Role model!

by | Apr 12, 2023 | Newsletter

Right now, as you’re reading this, there’s a very good chance someone is looking up to you. They’re thinking about you. Remembering something you said to them. Admiring you, even. The one thing we chronically underestimate is the impact we have on others. Even if...

The Wilds of the Workplace

by | Feb 26, 2023 | Newsletter

When it finds itself on the losing end of a social encounter, a baboon has a choice. Soothe itself by getting groomed by another baboon, or vent its anger on a lower-ranking baboon. The higher up the baboon, the more likely choice #2 will prevail. Sound familiar? As...

The Bill Will Always Come Due

by | Jan 30, 2023 | Newsletter

Someone asked me the other day what the hardest situation I dealt with when I was a therapist. I had clients who suffered terrible hardships, childhood abuse, and chronic physical pain that made everyday functioning impossible. But what sprung to mind was a young man...