Where Time Disappears and How It Becomes Available Again Time pressure is a topic in almost every organization. Short-term overload caused by absences or major projects is normal. However, when you zoom out and look at the bigger picture, a different pattern often emerges: A significant share of time pressure is not created by too much work, but by a lack of clarity and unclear decision architecture across teams and departments. Time rarely disappears loudly. It dissolves qui

When I entered the business world over twenty years ago, I was overwhelmed by leadership advice. So many voices, models, and trendy frameworks told me what to do or avoid. Some sounded solid, others vague. It reminded me of food and health guidance: contradictory, ever-changing, and overwhelming. I tuned most of it out and focused on leading as best as I could. Today, leadership advice is still abundant, perhaps even more so. But here's what I've come to know for sure: there

Photo by Cedric Fauntleroy: https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-friends-holding-cupcakes-7221456/ People in organizations must connect on a human level before meaningful communication and collaboration occur. Like networked computers, humans need a connection to function effectively. As leaders, it's our responsibility to ensure these connections are made and maintained. While employees often find creative ways to get things done despite weak connections, imagine how much more c

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels Great leaders and professionals are emotionally available—they have the courage and capacity to feel their and others’ emotions. Emotional availability goes beyond empathy, which is understanding others’ feelings. It involves being aware of all emotions without being afraid of them. Being present is essential, but it’s not enough. Without emotional availability, you miss key emotional information, leading to misunderstandings and ineffec

Photo by Tomas Ryant: https://www.pexels.com/photo/future-sign-3192640/ When the future seems uncertain, it's good to know we already have the tools to meet the challenge. In 2007-2008, we conducted a study on the future of management (Management Futures: The World in 2018), commissioned by the Chartered Management Institute (UK), which aims to inspire leaders and organizations. The study used FMG's Eltville Model, which took place during the last financial crisis when it was

Courtesy Paul Ekman Group As I encountered yet another case the other day, I reflected on the root cause of contempt. We need a practical solution for this behavior. We often idealize people who are intellectually bright, articulate, and ambitious. However, this admiration can lead to feelings of superiority, especially if these individuals are emotionally immature. Over time, this can foster intellectual pride and contempt. So, what is contempt? It’s visible in the slight cu

Conflict and drama are natural in workplace dynamics but can impede progress if left unchecked. Add corporate politics and leadership issues, and they create significant barriers to business success, often demotivating those trying to do their best. Leaders spend valuable time managing ongoing “people problems.” How much time is wasted on the same issues, an hour or two daily? It’s too much and unnecessary. My pivotal realization came after some struggle: 👉🏼 Conflicts are v

Like crows, we’re drawn to shiny new things—innovations and trends that captivate us. However, human behavior is timeless, and many so-called “new” leadership ideas are simply helpful reminders, not innovations. Thankfully, if we stay grounded, we can avoid the endless cycle of trends and focus on what truly works. The essential elements of leadership are timeless. I’ve observed successful leaders—those who are healthy, happy, and respected by others—and identified 11 key hab

A client once told me leadership is an ongoing conversation, and I realized how true that is. Everyday conversation plays a key role in leadership: it helps exchange ideas, fosters understanding, and supports self-reflection. While it may seem mundane, much of life’s beauty lies in the ordinary, like taking time for hobbies, rest, or sleep. However, conversations can be frustrating when people aren't truly listening or building on what's being said. Too often, I’ve experience

Some time ago, I listed the people who most influenced me and what they had in common. One word came to mind: they were great. Being great is not tied to status, position, role, gender, or other observable characteristics. It is a unique quality in a person. Great people hold the world together: countries, communities, organizations, families, lives. You can find them at any level, everywhere. The bus driver waits for the running passenger, the assistant picks up behind the