When I observe teams in high-stakes environments, I often witness the professional equivalent of running red lights. Leaders, absorbed in their objectives like my cab driver, barrel through warning signals—missed deadlines, team burnout indicators, stakeholder concerns—until someone finally screams from the backseat.
Read MoreChronic stress impacts the sympathetic nervous system—the part of your brain-body system responsible for the “fight-or-flight” response. When it’s chronically activated, we operate in survival mode: shallow breathing, tight muscles, racing thoughts.
And when teams operate in survival mode? Communication breaks down. Collaboration falters. Trust erodes.
Read MoreIn my work, I frequently observe teams whose purpose is to provide top-level service fall into frustration with their inability to deliver. With stress coming from a lack of support from their workplace’s practices, communication, or training, I can empathize.
Read MoreSharing personal hardships like divorce, health issues, and family emergencies can make workplace conversations emotionally difficult and professionally complex. But given that our working lives are not getting shorter anytime soon, it’s not a question of if individuals will need to have these conversations, but when. And navigating these conversations professionally while managing emotions and privacy requires careful thought and preparation.
Read MoreYear-end performance reviews can be time-consuming. Yet the end and start of the year is when employees and managers are inundated with a heavy workload. Emotions range from elated to angst-ridden. After all, performance evaluations directly impact professional reputations, salary increases, bonuses, and promotions.
Read MoreWorkplace conflicts cost U.S. companies $359 billion annually in lost productivity. While conflict can drive innovation, unresolved issues can damage teamwork and employee well-being. Drawing on 30 years of coaching experience, this article offers four essential strategies for leaders.
Read MoreIn recent client discussions, I've noted a common challenge: even strong teams often struggle with motivation to improve further. Given the pivotal role teams play in organizational success, particularly in healthcare, driving motivation is crucial for better outcomes. In this article I dive into three key strategies to energize your teams and unlock their full potential.
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