In a class I took years ago at Aileron, a learning center for entrepreneurs, the facilitator told us again and again, “All planning is good.” He said it so frequently I wrote it down in my notebook and underlined it, not realizing at the time how important this simple bit of advice would prove. It’s now 20 years later, and... read more
Survivalists know all sorts of interesting things about surviving in whatever environment they plan to be in. They realize they’re going to be placing themselves in a dangerous situation, so they do their homework first—or they learn the hard way, by trial and error. In many ways, the landscape season requires a survivalist mentality. The more prepared we are, the... read more
As much as I love the holiday season, I also love getting refocused on all things business after the first of the year. For me, January is a time to execute. No more time for planning; that was done last fall. Plans are in place, budgets are set, and everyone knows what to do. Now is the time to get... read more
The winter months provide an outstanding opportunity to review and fix processes that need attention. In my experience, most organizations have some processes that are either broken or missing. For those without serious process problems to address, the winter months allow for review, revision and improvement of processes that may be adequate but could be better. Broken or missing processes... read more
Any self-respecting child of the ’60s has a lava lamp on their desk or, if not, they wish they did. After all, lava lamps are not only cool, they inspire creative thoughts leading to fresh ideas and new approaches. At least that’s what my lava lamp does for me. Let me explain. There are times when I need to be... read more
