Oh. I guess it’s me.

Oh. I guess it’s me.

My mother died last month, and now I’m confronting the strange sensation of being the eldest generation in my family. Along with my sister and brother, I’m suddenly the person at the top of the tree, the elder. It’s an odd feeling, and one I haven’t quite grown into....
No One Wants This

No One Wants This

“Why would I want that promotion?” I didn’t have an answer. It just seemed obvious to me that stepping into a senior leadership role would be my client’s next career move. I kept hearing this sentiment, from talented and dynamic workers, turning down...
Power Hiding in Plain Sight

Power Hiding in Plain Sight

A few years back, I was designing a leadership program with a group of other consultants. We were discussing potential facilitators for the team. Maya’s name was on the list. “She’s great,” said my colleague, Raj. “She’s really smart, asks tough questions,...
How to Lose Legitimacy

How to Lose Legitimacy

Years ago, I worked with a professional group that had thrived for years as an open community. Anyone could show up to the monthly meetings, share ideas, and contribute to discussions. It was messy sometimes, but that openness created real value for everyone. Then the...
It’s a Two-Way Street

It’s a Two-Way Street

My client’s struggling with his boss. “She just doesn’t give me any feedback,” he complained. “I honestly don’t think she cares about my growth.” I asked, “Do you ask her for feedback?” “Well… of course. I mean, I ask how I’m doing, and every time I...
The Unwritten Rules of Power

The Unwritten Rules of Power

The plane was delayed. Our seats had been changed, and my niece and I couldn’t sit together. And no, the gate agent assured me, my frequent flyer status didn’t apply here. I was jet-lagged, irritated, and afraid I was going to miss our connection in London. As I...