The last two weeks of January I was working in Bolivia, as a Volunteer Advisor (VA) with the Canadian Executive Service Organization (CESO). I was there assisting the Municipality of La Paz with some conflict management and communication challenges they are facing. The work My work with the Municipality was right up my alley. I enjoy […]
Demonstrate humility to gain respect from your team
October 31, 2017 by · Leave a Comment
When your team member screws up, and admits it, that’s a good sign. The ability to eat humble pie is a virtue. “Humility is the single greatest and most indispensable attribute of being a team player”, says Patrick Lencioni, in The Ideal Team Player. Teamwork and humility Over the decades, I’ve been a part of […]
Conflict: Thank you [A poem]
October 9, 2017 by · Leave a Comment
[October 9, 2017 is Thanksgiving Day in Canada. My poem gives thanks to conflict’s role in my learning journey.] Hello Conflict, my trusted friend I can count on you, to put in an appearance, every day A gift, of sorts Thank you. When I work with you, respect you My differences with others turn small […]
Smart Urban Design Focuses on Safety and Relationships for Healthier Interactions
October 4, 2017 by · Leave a Comment
Whenever I rush into a difficult conversation without first creating a safe space to have that conversation, I invariably regret my impulsivity. Difficult conversations, especially relationship-oriented ones, demand paying attention to the ‘how’ conversation is to take place as much as ‘what’ the conversation is about. No matter the place, safety precedes authentic conversation. Relationships […]
Apply a “My 15%” Rule to Develop and Leverage Conflict Competency in Your Organization
September 27, 2017 by · 1 Comment
The U.S. Army has what it calls its’ “My 15%” rule. Believing that most people have about 15 percent control over their work situations, the Army asks everyone, no matter their rank, “What’s your 15% of the problem?” “Where do you have freedom to act?”, for mutual benefit. No matter your organization, to me: adopting a”my 15%” […]
