This may seem a bit distant, but inspiration often comes from unexpected sources: Zen master Dogen (1200–1253), the founder of the Soto Zen tradition in Japan, offers us insights that can lead to a deeper understanding of the art of leadership. Dogen invites us to explore how to be fully present, how to lead with authenticity, and how to meet life’s impermanence with clarity. As leaders, we can...
Technology is advancing faster than ever, and the workplace is characterized by continuous change. Yet, one thing remains constant: people’s fundamental need to be seen, heard, and valued. This is as true in the workplace as anywhere else. As leaders, our job is not just to focus on strategies, goals, and results but also on the people who actually deliver those results. When we genuinely...
Strategic documents should serve as a guiding star for the organization—a clear roadmap that aligns everyone towards the same direction. However, too often we see strategy plans written in unnecessarily complex language, making them inaccessible and impractical for employees. Why does this happen? And what can we, as leaders, do to ensure our strategies are not only understood but also...
An unusual reference this time: In the cult classic The Big Lebowski, we meet Jeff Lebowski, better known as The Dude, a character who seems the opposite of a stereotypical leader. His laid-back attitude and lack of ambition might seem far from the qualities we usually associate with leadership. Yet, the film offers us an unconventional insight into some of the most fundamental principles of...
At the time of writing, we are in «budget season,» and it is more important than ever to focus on resource allocation and prioritising activities that yield a reasonable return on investment (ROI). This requires a clear understanding of which activities truly drive our value creation, along with the resolve to cut those that don’t. One of the key insights we can have as leaders is understanding...
Meetings are an integral part of a leader’s workday, yet many of us feel like they dominate our schedules entirely. Often, the most productive hours of the week don’t occur during working hours, but rather in the quiet evenings or weekends—times that should ideally be reserved for rest or personal time. How did we reach the point where finding a free half-hour in the calendar seems impossible for...
Recruitment is one of the most significant investments we, as leaders, make. It is not merely a process to fill positions; it’s a strategic activity that can have long-term consequences for the organization. In today’s competitive market, it’s no longer just about finding the right skill set; it’s equally about building a strong, forward-looking team that shares the organization’s goals and...