This blog post has probably been the most difficult to draft. It runs the risk of being misinterpreted as a personal cry for help. (It is not, and I love you for caring.) It risks sounding judgmental. (It is not, and I am here to help whether we are now friends or soon to be friends.) It is a taboo subject for many. (It should not be, and that discomfort says more about them than the topic.) It risks the perception that I am weak and therefore unhireable as an advisor/consultant/etc..

Eleven years with MS has taught me that life is rarely good or bad in itself. It is uncertain, often answered only with “maybe.” Within that uncertainty, I have found clarity: to guard my time, honor my priorities, and live our family mission of Mostest.

The author reflects on the value of mentorship and understanding relationships through a transportation analogy. Relationships can be categorized by the willingness to help, from walking to flying, revealing emotional investment and priorities. This framework aids in navigating connections, fostering intentionality in nurturing those that truly matter.

The author reflects on family values while vacationing in Hilton Head Island, emphasizing the importance of being present for their three children. Professionally, they advise various companies and work on a new project addressing personal preferences in dining. Despite health challenges, they maintain a focus on strength training and practice Stoicism to align their actions with their values.

Confidence is a topic I never envisioned writing about, considering my previous struggle with it. My insights are personal reflections rather than expert advice, emerging from my journey. For years, I masked my insecurities with quick wit, leaving a party early, or, regrettably, by going on the offensive. However, in the past few years, a significant shift in my perspective has led me to a personal realization. I sought power, and confidence was the byproduct. Uncertain if this is worth sharing, I write for my children, determined to leave them a legacy of introspection and growth.

A-Players are self-motivated individuals who consistently drive results and seek growth. When paired with C-Players, they may initially perform well but eventually downshift due to the lack of accountability from leadership. This leads to self-doubt, resentment, and the likelihood of leaving. Leaders must address performance issues to retain top talent.

Explore the impact of avoiding conflict and learn how to navigate tough conversations constructively for stronger relationships.

A lawsuit in 2012 prompted a shift from micromanagement to empowerment, highlighting the importance of trusting team members and focusing on strategic vision. This painful experience led to personal growth, improved leadership, and stronger organizational dynamics, ultimately fostering innovation and autonomy.

The author reflects on the contrast between childhood perceptions of parental perfection and adult realizations about the value of authenticity in parenting. By embracing vulnerability and openly discussing mistakes, parents can model resilience and growth for their children. This approach fosters emotional resilience and emphasizes that personal development is more important than an image of flawlessness.

Productive friction is essential for collaborative success in various contexts, distinguishing between tactical and relationship conflict. Tactical conflict fosters innovation and creativity by focusing on tasks, while relationship conflict disrupts productivity and trust. Encouraging constructive debate and maintaining focus on shared goals can enhance outcomes in both professional and personal settings.

The blog post discusses the contrast between Net Sum Zero and Non-Net Sum Zero belief systems regarding success and resources. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration, abundance, and overcoming cynicism to foster community and personal growth. The author advocates for a mindset shift towards shared success and connections for overall well-being.

The author expresses a deep passion for problem-solving, rooted in a love for coding. They argue that seeing problems as opportunities fosters leadership and innovation. Embracing challenges leads to growth, as organizations become stronger by addressing issues. By adopting a mindset focused on solutions, leaders can create lasting impact and competitive advantage.