Today I’m probably known most for my public speaking. The irony is that when I first started speaking, I was anything but effective. In fact, I remember being really fearful, and it showed. In my first speaking opportunity as a senior in college, I was terrible. People described my speaking style as “stiff.” I could’ve [...]

[Read more →]

Greek philosopher Aristotle said, “Criticism is something you can avoid easily—by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing.” Obviously, that isn’t an option for anyone who wants to be successful as a leader. Good leaders are active, and their actions often put them out front. That often draws criticism. When spectators watch a race, where [...]

[Read more →]

“I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’” ~Muhammad Ali Many people make decisions when things aren’t going well. They look for relief in the despair of the valley instead of waiting for the clarity that comes from being on [...]

[Read more →]

In 1986, when I was 39 years old, I began to notice a terrible trend among my colleagues, college buddies and friends: divorce. This was happening in a variety of marriages – from the shaky to the apparently strong. Margaret and I didn’t think our relationship was in any kind of danger, but then again, [...]

[Read more →]

The willingness to take greater risks is a major key to achieving success, and you may be surprised that it can solve two very different kinds of problems. The problem of hitting ALL of your goals, AND The problem of hitting NO goals… because you never make any. Let’s look at #1: You’re not afraid [...]

[Read more →]