It is a mystery to me. It seems that as a person increases his or her responsibility or position in an organization, their ability or willingness to exercise EQ (emotional intelligence) decreases.

I challenge you to try the 5 to 1 ratio in your significant relationships. Focus on speaking with authentic encouragement instead of self-centered criticism.

The question is not “if” you are creating a culture, but instead, “what kind of” culture are you creating? I once worked with an organization who had degenerated from an incredibly healthy culture to a toxic damaging one.

The residents who lived in the path of hurricane Ian will never be the same. This powerfully vicious storm devastated towns and left thousands homeless.

I was traveling recently and had two completely different experiences. While visiting a venue that offers tours for its guests, we met Jeremy and Jessica, our tour guides.

There is a reason that Kevin has developed into the man he is today. It did not happen by chance or luck. Kevin began his journey of leadership way before he became a collegiate athlete or corporate leader. His story is one of how truth, determination and perseverance still work.

I hear that phrase a lot these days. It seems to be the new “catch phrase”. Flipping the script can be a powerful way to change our behavior.

Are you a lake person? Or do you love the mountains?  We all have places that speak to our heart and soul. A wise leader told me recently, “A change in environment will change your life”. 

I write these email blogs about what I am currently seeing or experiencing in my life and leadership journey. Ten years ago, I wrote of a man named Bobby who had a complicated cancer diagnosis and how he was choosing to, in his words “live life while you can”.

My conversation with Elizabeth reminded me that there are still good young leaders in this world. Leaders who care about more than power, agendas, or prestige. Leaders who are curious, want to grow and who have a desire to help others.

In my world there are those who talk about growing and learning and then there are those who actually put action behind those words. I was talking with a seasoned executive recently who represents the ladder type of leader.

It took him down. He destroyed the company and any significant relationships that were attached. His fear and insecurity led him down a path of arrogance and dictatorial leadership. He ultimately was terminated from the company.

With tears in his eyes, he said, “I want to grow and learn all that I can so that I lead my people well.”

He was blown away by the treatment he received. Charles was admitted to the hospital for a procedure that would repair a heart issue.

I recently had a conversation with Crystal Brown. She is one of the most authentic, respectful and well-respected leaders I know.

This week we are celebrating our 246th birthday as a nation. We are not perfect, and our flaws are many times raw and hurtful. However, I think we spend a lot of time pointing out our weaknesses and neglect the strengths of this great nation.

Steve Cook knows pain. He has traveled through difficult seasons and he understands the need to continue to grow, even through the dark days of life. Allowing those experiences to change him and strengthen him was a critical choice in his leadership and life journey.

Steve Cook is a leader who understands change. Coming from a family who legally immigrated to the USA, he has faced many changes and challenges in his career. Yet, he has chosen to learn and grow through the journey and now leads a large Aerospace organization with a global footprint. What he learned as a child helped to form him into the man he is today.

I like real. I like authentic. That’s why I like the leader that I had the opportunity to talk with recently. He is straightforward and does not play games with words or intent.