# Leadership Advisor | Executive Mentor | Trusted Counsel for Business Leaders

> Leadership Powered by Common Sense

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## Posts

- [Blog](https://dougthorpe.com/blog/): Tools You Need to Win the Leadership Game Learning to lead a fast-growing business is one of the most challenging transitions for any founder. CEOs need to understand how to have the right approach to leadership that is practical, flexible, and grounded in proven practices. Use our blog to improve your performance level as a
- [Alternatives to Traditional SWOT Analysis for Executives](https://dougthorpe.com/alternatives-to-traditional-swot-analysis-for-executives/): Executives need faster, sharper decision tools. Explore SWOT alternatives, PESTLE, SOAR, and scenario planning to improve strategic choices.
- [5 Ways to Improve Leadership Performance With Coaching](https://dougthorpe.com/5-ways-improve-leadership-performance-coaching/): Discover 5 ways to improve leadership performance with coaching, from active listening to accountability.
- [Is Executive Coaching Worth the Investment? A Leader's Guide](https://dougthorpe.com/is-executive-coaching-worth-the-investment/): Is executive coaching worth the investment for senior leaders? We break down costs, ROI, goals, and how to measure real outcomes before you commit.
- [Scaling Business: Operational Bottleneck Solutions](https://dougthorpe.com/scaling-business-operational-bottleneck-solutions/): Discover proven operational bottleneck solutions to scale your business. Learn how to identify, fix, and prevent constraints that stall growth.
- [How to Resolve Stalled Priorities and Accountability Gaps](https://dougthorpe.com/resolve-stalled-priorities-accountability-gaps/): Stalled priorities accountability gaps: Resolve stalled priorities and accountability gaps with a step-by-step framework.
- [Coaching vs Consulting for Leaders: 2026 Guide](https://dougthorpe.com/coaching-vs-consulting-for-leaders/): Coaching vs consulting for leaders: compare when to hire a coach, when to bring in a consultant, and how to choose the right support.
- [GROW vs STEPPA: Coaching Models Compared](https://dougthorpe.com/grow-vs-steppa-coaching-models/): Compare GROW and STEPPA coaching models side-by-side. Learn when to use each framework, key differences, and practical questions for managers.
- [Leadership Coaching for Small Businesses: 2026 Review](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-coaching-for-small-businesses/): Compare the top leadership coaching for small businesses options in 2026, from Doug Thorpe Group to Vistage, and find the right fit for your team.
- [Alternatives to Traditional Leadership Coaching Models](https://dougthorpe.com/alternatives-to-traditional-leadership-coaching-models/): Explore alternatives to traditional leadership coaching models, from peer groups to AI tools. Compare approaches and find the right fit for your team.
- [How to Overcome Executive Decision Paralysis](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-overcome-executive-decision-paralysis/): Learn how to overcome executive decision paralysis with practical frameworks, decision matrices, and steps to stop being a bottleneck for your team.
- [Executive Coaching for Accountability Gaps: A How-To](https://dougthorpe.com/executive-coaching-accountability-gaps/): Learn how executive coaching for accountability gaps works, from diagnosis to closing the gap with clear plans and measurable outcomes.
- [Sifting the Noise: How Leaders Turn Subjective Feedback Into Objective Learning](https://dougthorpe.com/sifting-the-noise-how-leaders-turn-subjective-feedback-into-objective-learning/): In this post All feedback is subjective data Subjective vs. objective: what's the difference? The conversion: from opinion to learning Sifting everything coming at you From learning to growth None of this works without a foundation Where to start Monday morning It's Thursday afternoon and your 360 report just landed in your inbox. Page three
- [Find Your Leadership Clarity: 2026 Guide](https://dougthorpe.com/book-leadership-clarity-session-online/): Learn how to book a leadership clarity session online, prepare effectively, and get real ROI from executive coaching services. Start with a 90-minute.
- [5 Best Decision Making Models for Leaders in 2026](https://dougthorpe.com/5-best-decision-making-models-for-leaders-2026/): Explore the 5 best decision making models for leaders in 2026. Learn to stop being a bottleneck and overcome decision paralysis. Get clear next steps.
- [Coaching Frameworks for Leadership Performance](https://dougthorpe.com/coaching-frameworks-for-leadership-performance/): Discover coaching frameworks that improve leadership performance. Compare GROW, CLEAR, OSKAR and more to find the right model for your team. Explore now.
- [Executive Coaching Services: A 2026 Buyer's Guide](https://dougthorpe.com/executive-coaching-services-2026-buyers-guide/): Compare executive coaching services for 2026. Learn what drives cost, how long engagements last, and how to choose a coach who delivers real results. Get.
- [Leadership Clarity Session for Executives: A 2026 Guide](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-clarity-session-for-executives/): Discover how a leadership clarity session helps executives cut through strategic stalling, sharpen decision-making speed, and build lasting organizational.
- [Five Myths Stopping Corporate Leaders From Buying Profitable Businesses](https://dougthorpe.com/five-myths-stopping-corporate-leaders-from-buying-profitable-businesses/): Five myths blocking corporate leaders from buying a profitable business—and the straight answers that unlock growth through acquisition.
- [The Fine Line Between Tension That Grows People and Adversity That Breaks Them](https://dougthorpe.com/the-fine-line-between-tension-that-grows-people-and-adversity-that-breaks-them/): You've probably done it without even thinking about it. Someone on your team turns in work that's a little soft. Not terrible — just not what you needed. So you decide to light a fire under them. You get a little sharper in the meeting. You push a little harder in the one-on-one. You figure
- [The Weight You're Carrying Isn't What You Think It Is](https://dougthorpe.com/the-weight-youre-carrying-isnt-what-you-think-it-is/): It's 9:47 on a Tuesday night. The house is quiet. Everybody else has clocked out of their day — the team, the kids, the neighbors. But you're still at the kitchen table with the laptop open, because there's a decision that has to get made and, well, you're the only one who can make it.
- [The Power of Confidence and Humility in Success](https://dougthorpe.com/confidence-and-humility-two-sides-of-the-same-coin/): Leadership confidence isn’t bravado; it’s steady balance with humility that earns trust and moves teams forward.
- [The Best Leaders Never Forget What It's Like to Be a Follower](https://dougthorpe.com/the-best-leaders-never-forget-what-its-like-to-be-a-follower/): From followership to leadership, this story shows why remembering the bottom line changes how you lead Monday.
- [The Resume Is Cooked](https://dougthorpe.com/the-resume-is-cooked/): How to Actually Tell If a Candidate Is the Real Deal You're staring at a stack of resumes and every single one is perfect. Flawless bullet points. All the right keywords. LinkedIn profiles so polished they practically glow. On paper, you've got twelve unicorns fighting for one job. And your gut is quietly telling you:
- [The Team-First Flex](https://dougthorpe.com/the-team-first-flex/): Why the Best Leaders Act Like They Work For Their People It's 11 PM. You just got promoted to lead your team a few months ago, and you're still up answering messages because — real talk — you figured being the boss meant people would finally start working for you. Fewer headaches. More respect. The
- [Four Simple Questions for When You Know Something Needs to Change](https://dougthorpe.com/four-simple-questions-for-when-you-know-something-needs-to-change/): Shake up momentum with four simple questions the next time you feel stuck—focus on what works, fix what breaks, and dream bigger for work and home.
- [Stop Turning the Pressure Inward: How to Redirect Your Energy Toward Leading](https://dougthorpe.com/stop-turning-the-pressure-inward-how-to-redirect-your-energy-toward-leading/): Turn the imposter voice inward and redirect your energy outward. Learn a four-step leadership habit to gain clarity and influence.
- [If You Could Program a Leader Like a Robot: 7 Things Worth Installing](https://dougthorpe.com/if-you-could-program-a-leader-like-a-robot-7-things-worth-installing/): If you could program a leader like a robot to influence and impact others, what would you install? Here are the 7 leadership behaviors that actually build trust and drive results. Picture a robot on an assembly line. Somewhere in a lab, an engineer loads the code — a few thousand lines that tell it
- [Emotional Intelligence for Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/emotional-intelligence-for-leaders/): A common sense guide to emotional intelligence for leaders: what it means, how to build it, and how to use it in everyday work situations.
- [Leading Back to the Cause](https://dougthorpe.com/leading-back-to-the-cause/): Resolve workplace conflict without pulling rank. Lead with a shared mission, align goals, and turn friction into collaborative progress.
- [The AI Conversation Most Small Business Owners Are Avoiding (And Why We Found You a Guide)](https://dougthorpe.com/the-ai-conversation-most-small-business-owners-are-avoiding-and-why-we-found-you-a-guide/): Struggling to start with AI for your small business? Get a practical, guided path with HeadwayExec and NTSprint to boost margins fast.
- [Why Your Team Pushes Back on New Ideas (And It's Not Because They Hate Change)](https://dougthorpe.com/why-your-team-pushes-back-on-new-ideas-and-its-not-because-they-hate-change/): Discover why teams resist new ideas and how to lead with trust—involve people early and turn resistance into collaboration.
- [Good Intentions Won't Get You There — But This Will](https://dougthorpe.com/good-intentions-wont-get-you-there-but-this-will/): Are you drifting or directing your life? Lift the anchor and turn intention into concrete actions that move your team, relationships, and growth forward.
- [Are You Leading on Purpose — or Just Reacting?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-leading-on-purpose-or-just-reacting/): Busy leaders, or intentional ones? Discover how deliberate focus, not constant motion, drives real results—and the three questions to start Monday.
- [Trust at Work](https://dougthorpe.com/trust-at-work/): Discover actionable steps to rebuild trust as employees leave. Our book 'Trust at Work' offers a proven six-step framework for leaders.
- [You Don't Need Everyone to Agree — You Need Everyone Aligned](https://dougthorpe.com/you-dont-need-everyone-to-agree-you-need-everyone-aligned/): Discover why leaders should focus on 'alignment' over 'agreement' to drive team momentum and seize new market opportunities effectively.
- [Great Leaders: Can You Do a Puzzle Without the Box Top?](https://dougthorpe.com/wheres-the-box-top-why-servant-leaders-must-provide-clarity-before-asking-for-commitment/): Unlock your team's potential with servant leadership! Learn 5 proven ways to bring clarity, connect roles, and turn confusion into contribution.
- [Stop Problem-Solving Everything — Your People Need a Coach, Not an Answer Machine](https://dougthorpe.com/stop-problem-solving-everything-your-people-need-a-coach-not-an-answer-machine/): Discover how to shift from giving quick solutions to asking curious questions that develop your team's judgment and independence.
- [The Heck It's Not Personal](https://dougthorpe.com/heck-not-personal/): A young aspiring candidate enters the office of the hiring manager. Time is set to do a job interview.
- [5 Ways to Avoid Convenient Excuses](https://dougthorpe.com/5-ways-to-avoid-convenient-excuses/): As we go through this life, things happen to us and around us. Often there is a call to accountability.
- [What Did You Get for Valentine's Day?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-did-you-get-for-valentines-day/): When you have found your own center of balance about loving yourself, you will never lord it over others. It will show others an inner strength and resilience.
- [What is Your Go-To Leadership Style?](https://dougthorpe.com/1515-2/): Taking a team from ordinary to extraordinary means understanding and embracing the difference between management and leadership.
- [When Nobody Knows What's Coming: How to Lead Your Team Through the AI Storm](https://dougthorpe.com/when-nobody-knows-whats-coming-how-to-lead-your-team-through-the-ai-storm/): Navigate AI uncertainty effectively by communicating honestly, involving your team, and staying anchored to your core values. Discover how leadership makes the difference.
- [The Authority You Carry vs. The Authority You've Earned](https://dougthorpe.com/the-authority-you-carry-vs-the-authority-youve-earned/): Discover the difference between positional and reputational authority, and learn how leveraging both can elevate your leadership in business settings.
- [When the Voice in Your Head Becomes the Toughest Boss You've Ever Had](https://dougthorpe.com/when-the-voice-in-your-head-becomes-the-toughest-boss-youve-ever-had/): Struggling with a harsh inner voice? Find out how to transform self-criticism into constructive reflection and maintain your leadership edge.
- [Building Your Personal Leadership Framework: What's Your Leadership Reputation?](https://dougthorpe.com/building-your-personal-leadership-framework-whats-your-leadership-reputation/): Find out how to define your personal leadership reputation and build a framework rooted in your values, principles, and growth edges.
- [The Remote Work Question That Won't Go Away — And the Simple Answer That Still Works](https://dougthorpe.com/the-remote-work-question-that-wont-go-away-and-the-simple-answer-that-still-works/): Your team is scattered across three time zones. One person is dialed in from a home office in Dallas, another from a coffee shop in Denver, and the third is — honestly — you're not totally sure. The project is moving, reports are coming in, and on paper everything looks fine. But you still have
- [The Perfect Tool in an Imperfect World](https://dougthorpe.com/the-perfect-tool-in-an-imperfect-world/): Managers who have never had remote workers are in a panic. Most employees are working remotely right now. Even if you've had telecommuters before, you worry about their productivity and accountability.
- [When "No" Is a Habit: How Servant Leaders Turn Negative Nellies Around](https://dougthorpe.com/when-no-is-a-habit-how-servant-leaders-turn-negative-nellies-around/): Learn why addressing the root causes of team negativity is key to effective leadership and how to foster a more positive work environment.
- [Are You Leading — Or Just Getting Through the Day?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-leading-or-just-getting-through-the-day/): Picture a Monday morning team meeting. The manager at the front of the room has an agenda, a slide deck, and a pen tapping against his notebook. He's waiting for people to stop talking so he can get through his material. He answers questions with short, clipped responses. He's technically present. He's technically leading. But
- [Leading Change: An Old Model Reveals New Ideas](https://dougthorpe.com/leading-change-old-model-reveals-new-ideas/): Business leaders know the challenge it can be to lead change. When there is a new announcement about something changing, you can often hear the groans that arise.
- [Flip the 9-Box: What Servant Leaders See That Most Managers Miss](https://dougthorpe.com/flip-the-9-box-what-servant-leaders-see-that-most-managers-miss/): Transform your talent review process with servant leadership — learn how to use the nine-box grid to truly develop and support your team.
- [Right Reason or Real Reason: What's Actually Driving the Conversation?](https://dougthorpe.com/right-reason-or-real-reason-whats-actually-driving-the-conversation/): Learn to listen beyond the surface in leadership conversations by understanding the difference between right reasons and real reasons.
- [Why I Wrote STEADY: the Leadership Framework — And Why I'd Love Your Help Launching It](https://dougthorpe.com/why-i-wrote-steady-the-leadership-framework-and-why-id-love-your-help-launching-it/): Unlock the secrets to becoming a steadier leader. Doug Thorpe's framework offers actionable tips to stay resilient and effective in turbulent times.
- [Stop Trying to Motivate Your Team — Fix Your Culture Instead](https://dougthorpe.com/stop-trying-to-motivate-your-team-fix-your-culture-instead/): Discover why workplace culture is the key to employee motivation, not quick fixes. Learn practical steps to transform your team environment today.
- [The Perfectionism Trap: Why Your High Standards Might Be Your Team's Biggest Problem](https://dougthorpe.com/the-perfectionism-trap-why-your-high-standards-might-be-your-teams-biggest-problem/): Discover how perfectionism in leadership can hinder team growth, productivity, and morale—and learn practical shifts for empowering your team.
- [Stop Writing People Off](https://dougthorpe.com/stop-writing-people-off-5-coaching-conversations-that-turn-struggling-employees-into-stars/): 5 Coaching Conversations That Turn Struggling Employees Into Stars Let me ask you something uncomfortable. The last time you had an underperformer on your team — what was your first instinct? If you're honest, it was probably to start building a paper trail, loop in HR, or quietly wonder how long before you could move
- [When Empathy Isn’t Enough: Reading the Spectrum of Employee Performance](https://dougthorpe.com/when-empathy-isnt-enough-reading-the-spectrum-of-employee-performance/): Struggling with balancing empathy and firmness? Understand how to adapt your leadership style to different employee situations effectively.
- [Leadership Doesn’t Wait for a Quiet Moment](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-doesnt-wait-for-a-quiet-moment/): Discover how servant leadership transforms hectic moments into coaching opportunities that develop your team and build stronger organizations.
- [The Delegation Ladder: Let Go Without Losing Control](https://dougthorpe.com/the-delegation-ladder-let-go-without-losing-control/): The Delegation Ladder: Let Go Without Losing Control Alternate titles considered: 1. "The Delegation Ladder: Let Go Without Losing Control" 2. "Stop Doing It All: Master the Delegation Ladder" 3. "Let Go to Grow: Climbing the Delegation Ladder" Let me ask you something straight up — are you the bottleneck in your own business? I've
- [What is Servant Leadership and Why Should I Care?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-servant-leadership-and-why-should-i-care/): If you've ever been on the receiving end of a bad boss, you know that it can be a real drag. They micromanage, they yell at you, and they don't listen to your ideas. And if it's not the boss themselves who are making things difficult, it's their lack of leadership that leads to a
- [Servant Leadership for Skeptics](https://dougthorpe.com/servant-leadership-for-skeptics/): Discover how servant leadership transforms teams of 50, fostering trust, growth, and results without sacrificing accountability or standards.
- [Flip the Pyramid: Why the Best Leaders Put Their Team First](https://dougthorpe.com/flip-the-pyramid-why-the-best-leaders-put-their-team-first/): Learn the principles of servant leadership and how small, daily acts of service can elevate your team, foster respect, and create a positive work environment.
- [Why Strategy Follows Gravity: How Servant Leaders Can Influence It](https://dougthorpe.com/why-strategy-follows-gravity-how-servant-leaders-can-influence-it/): Discover how 'strategy follows gravity' in organizations and learn how servant leaders can shape true organizational pull for lasting success.
- [The Sweet Spot: What Game Designers Know About Leading People](https://dougthorpe.com/the-sweet-spot-what-game-designers-know-about-leading-people/): Unlock the secrets of servant leadership by applying game design insights—finding the perfect challenge balance to foster development and resilience.
- [Building vs. Leveraging Your Team](https://dougthorpe.com/building-vs-leveraging-your-team/): Discover the critical servant leadership mistake most managers overlook—knowing when to build new resources or leverage existing strengths for maximum impact.
- [The 5 Key Characteristics of a Successful Servant Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/the-5-key-characteristics-of-a-successful-servant-leader/): Leadership is a crucial element in any organization, but have you heard of the concept of servant leadership? This approach to leadership is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. A servant leader is one who puts the needs of their team members first, prioritizing their growth and development as opposed to their own success.
- [Which Companies Use Servant Leadership?](https://dougthorpe.com/which-companies-use-servant-leadership/): Discover how servant leadership drives success with real-world examples from top companies. Learn why supporting your team wins in business.
- [5 Things Most People Get Wrong About Servant Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/5-things-most-people-get-wrong-about-servant-leadership/): Think servant leadership is soft or slow? Explore why this leadership approach actually accelerates decision-making and cultivates trust, even in scaling companies.
- [Unlock Leadership Autonomy: Lessons from the Military for Business Success](https://dougthorpe.com/unlock-leadership-autonomy-lessons-from-the-military-for-business-success/): Discover how military principles of leadership autonomy can revolutionize corporate decision-making and boost organizational agility.
- [Beyond Empowerment: Build Real Autonomy Without Losing Accountability](https://dougthorpe.com/beyond-empowerment-how-servant-leaders-build-real-autonomy-without-losing-accountability/): Discover how servant leadership fosters genuine autonomy and accountability, transforming organizational culture and boosting long-term success.
- [Introducing the 4-D Leadership Development Process](https://dougthorpe.com/the-4-d-leadership-development-process-your-year-over-year-career-elevation-system/): Unlock true leadership growth with the 4-D Process: Discover, Decide, Design, Do. A practical system to build your leadership skills year after year.
- [SMART Goals Through a Servant Leader's Lens: Growing People, Not Just Hitting Targets](https://dougthorpe.com/smart-goals-through-a-servant-leaders-lens-growing-people-not-just-hitting-targets/): We've all sat through those goal-setting meetings. The ones where someone writes objectives on a whiteboard, everyone nods politely, and then those goals quietly fade into the background noise of daily operations. Three months later, nobody remembers what they were supposed to be achieving. Here's the problem: most leaders treat goal-setting like filling out a
- [The Greatest Leadership Secret: You're Not the Hero of This Story](https://dougthorpe.com/the-greatest-leadership-secret-youre-not-the-hero-of-this-story/): When I ask leaders what keeps them up at night, they usually mention missed targets, tough decisions, or looming deadlines. Rarely does anyone say, "I'm worried I'm making this too much about me." Yet that's often the hidden problem beneath all the others. Here's a truth that sounds backwards until you've lived it: The moment
- [The Strength Signal - Why Being "Good at Everything" Is Keeping You Stuck](https://dougthorpe.com/the-strength-signal-why-being-good-at-everything-is-keeping-you-stuck/): Uncover the secret to career growth—develop a focal strength that creates value for others, not just yourself. Master servant leadership today.
- [The Presence Signal - Why Working Hard in Silence Is Career Suicide](https://dougthorpe.com/the-presence-signal-why-working-hard-in-silence-is-career-suicide/): Discover how to make your servant leadership impact visible and unlock bigger opportunities to serve, instead of staying a hidden asset in your organization.
- [The Servant Leadership Purpose Signal - Why Your "Why" Matters More Than Your Resume](https://dougthorpe.com/the-servant-leadership-purpose-signal-why-your-why-matters-more-than-your-resume/): Discover how the Purpose Signal rooted in servant leadership can elevate your visibility and accelerate your career growth at work.
- [Why Servant Leadership Is the Most Powerful Leadership Approach You're Not Using (And the Science Proves It)](https://dougthorpe.com/why-servant-leadership-is-the-most-powerful-leadership-approach-youre-not-using-and-the-science-proves-it/): Servant leadership isn't soft—it's strategic. New 2024-2025 research shows it drives 50% better retention, 6% revenue growth, and 8% improved performance. Learn the key attributes that make it work.
- [The Person in the Middle: Why Middle Management Might Be the Hardest Job in Your Organization](https://dougthorpe.com/the-person-in-the-middle-why-middle-management-might-be-the-hardest-job-in-your-organization/): Discover the vital role of middle managers and learn how their translation and juggling skills drive organizational success in challenging times.
- [Feeling Invisible at Work? You're Not Alone — And Here's How to Fix It](https://dougthorpe.com/feeling-invisible-at-work-youre-not-alone-and-heres-how-to-fix-it/): Feeling invisible at work? Discover strategic visibility tactics to showcase your talents, fast-track promotions, and unlock your true career potential.
- [The Hidden Scripts That Shape Your Leadership: Why Self-Awareness Is Your Greatest Leadership Tool](https://dougthorpe.com/the-hidden-scripts-that-shape-your-leadership-why-self-awareness-is-your-greatest-leadership-tool/): Transform your leadership by uncovering and rewriting internal scripts that sabotage decision-making and team dynamics.
- [Don't Be the Leadership Chameleon: Why Constantly Changing Your Style Is Sabotaging Your Team](https://dougthorpe.com/dont-be-the-leadership-chameleon-why-constantly-changing-your-style-is-sabotaging-your-team/): Discover why consistent leadership builds trust, decision-making, and retention. Avoid the chameleon trap and create a reliable leadership foundation.
- [Leaders Should Track Accomplishments](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-should-track-accomplishments/): Discover how crafting powerful accomplishment statements can boost your leadership profile and enhance career transitions with measurable success stories.
- [The Leadership Lie Nobody Talks About: Being Liked vs. Being Respected (And Why You Need Both)](https://dougthorpe.com/the-leadership-lie-nobody-talks-about-being-liked-vs-being-respected-and-why-you-need-both/): Discover how true leadership combines respect and likeability. Learn the four archetypes and the secret C3 Model to build high-performing, trusted teams.
- [The Trust Deficit: Why Your 'Open Door Policy' Isn't Working (And What Elite Teams Do Instead)](https://dougthorpe.com/the-trust-deficit-why-your-open-door-policy-isnt-working-and-what-elite-teams-do-instead/): You've told your team a hundred times: "My door is always open." You mean it, too. You genuinely want people to come to you with problems, ideas, concerns. You've created Slack channels for open communication. You've instituted "no stupid questions" as a mantra. You've even moved your office closer to the team. And yet... crickets.
- [When "Nothing Will Change" Changes Everything: A Guide to Honest Post-Merger Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/when-nothing-will-change-changes-everything-a-guide-to-honest-post-merger-leadership/): The Promise Every Acquirer Makes (And Why Teams Don't Believe It) "We love what you've built. We don't want to change anything too quickly." If you've been through a merger or acquisition, you've likely heard this promise. And if you're like most employees on the receiving end, you probably smiled, nodded, and immediately started updating
- [When Resistance Makes Sense: Using the Change Formula to Protect What Works](https://dougthorpe.com/when-resistance-makes-sense-using-the-change-formula-to-protect-what-works/): We've all been there. New leadership arrives, consultants sweep in, or someone discovers the latest management trend, and suddenly your successful team is being told everything needs to change. But what if the resistance you feel isn't stubborn close-mindedness? What if it's actually wisdom? There's a powerful formula in change management that can help us
- [A Thanksgiving Message to My Leadership Community](https://dougthorpe.com/a-thanksgiving-message-to-my-leadership-community/): As I sit down this Thanksgiving, I'm reminded of a simple truth that's guided me through 30+ years of leadership: the best leaders eat last. To the thousands of you who've joined me on this journey through "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," who've listened to the podcast, shared your stories, and believed in a different
- [Beyond Small Talk: How to Build Real Connections That Transform Your Workplace](https://dougthorpe.com/beyond-small-talk-how-to-build-real-connections-that-transform-your-workplace/): Learn how to move beyond basic communication to create meaningful connections at work. Discover practical strategies that build trust, boost morale, and create stronger teams. Picture this: You're at a family reunion, and there's that one relative who talks at you for twenty minutes straight about their vacation, never once asking about your life. Now
- [Be SMART About Your Goal Setting](https://dougthorpe.com/be-smart-about-your-goal-setting/): Whether you're interested in goal setting tips for you, your business, or to gain a deeper understanding of goal setting to help your clients, this SMART goal setting & Action Planning GUIDE can help.
- [The Energy Game: Why Managing Your Fuel Beats Managing Your Time](https://dougthorpe.com/the-energy-game-why-managing-your-fuel-beats-managing-your-time/): You know that feeling when your calendar is perfectly organized, your to-do list is color-coded, and you've blocked out every 15-minute increment of your day... yet you still can't bring yourself to start that important project? Welcome to the procrastination trap. It's not about time. It never was. After 30+ years in leadership roles -
- [Charting Your Course: How a Personal SWOT Analysis Can Unlock Your Potential](https://dougthorpe.com/charting-your-course-how-a-personal-swot-analysis-can-unlock-your-potential/): We all have dreams, aspirations, and a desire to grow. But sometimes, navigating the path towards those goals can feel overwhelming. Life throws us curveballs, and internal struggles can cloud our judgment. This is where the classic SWOT analysis steps in, offering a powerful framework for personal growth and success mapping. SWOT: A Strategic Tool
- [The Leadership Gap: Why Your Team Can't Execute Your Strategy (And How to Fix It)](https://dougthorpe.com/the-leadership-gap-why-your-team-cant-execute-your-strategy-and-how-to-fix-it/): Meta Description: Your strategy isn't the problem—your leadership execution is. Learn how to transform from bottleneck to strategic leader and build a team that executes without constant oversight. Target Keywords: leadership execution, team alignment strategy, strategic leadership, accountability in business “Why can’t my team just get it?” If you’ve ever found yourself muttering this through gritted teeth,
- [From Firefighting to Strategic Execution: 7 Frameworks That Actually Work](https://dougthorpe.com/from-firefighting-to-strategic-execution-7-frameworks-that-actually-work/): Meta Description: Stop firefighting and start executing. Discover 7 proven frameworks small business owners use to bridge the gap between strategic vision and daily operations—with real implementation examples. Target Keywords: strategic execution frameworks, business execution plan, strategy implementation, strategic accountability Business owners aren’t lazy. Many work 70-80 hours every week—yet despite the hustle, their strategic initiatives stall.
- [Why 90% of Small Business Strategies Fail: The Strategy Execution Gap Explained](https://dougthorpe.com/why-90-of-small-business-strategies-fail-the-strategy-execution-gap-explained/): You spent three months crafting the perfect strategic plan. Your leadership team gathered for an expensive offsite retreat. You hired a consultant. You created detailed roadmaps, ambitious growth targets, and inspiring vision statements. The plan looked beautiful—comprehensive, well-researched, and ready to transform your business. Six months later, that $10,000 strategic plan is gathering dust in
- [The Leader's Guide to Powerful Conversations: How to Influence Without Intimidation](https://dougthorpe.com/the-leaders-guide-to-powerful-conversations-how-to-influence-without-intimidation/): In today's workplace, the most successful leaders aren't the ones who shout the loudest or demand the most. They're the ones who master the art of powerful conversations – dialogues that inspire action, build trust, and create lasting change without leaving people feeling bulldozed or belittled. Think of a powerful conversation like conducting an orchestra
- [Why Every Leader Needs an Energy Audit (And It's Not What You Think)](https://dougthorpe.com/why-every-leader-needs-an-energy-audit-and-its-not-what-you-think/): You check your phone battery obsessively. You track your steps, your sleep, maybe even your macros. But when was the last time you audited where your leadership energy actually goes? If you're like most leaders I work with, you're probably running on fumes by Wednesday afternoon, wondering why that "easy" Tuesday felt like running a
- [Stop Building AI Robots When You Just Need a Smart Conversation Partner](https://dougthorpe.com/stop-building-ai-robots-when-you-just-need-a-smart-conversation-partner/): Let's talk about the elephant in the room: AI has become the new "must-have" for every business owner, but most of us are approaching it like we're trying to build a spaceship when all we really need is a good bicycle. I've watched countless entrepreneurs burn time and money trying to create complex AI workflows,
- [Mind's Attention and Heart's Affection: The Power of Leading the Whole Person](https://dougthorpe.com/minds-attention-and-hearts-affection-the-power-of-leading-the-whole-person/): Picture a gardener tending to their plants. They could simply water them on schedule, provide adequate sunlight, and call it a day. The plants might survive, even grow. But the best gardeners? They talk to their plants, notice when something's off, celebrate new blooms, and genuinely care about their garden's wellbeing. Surprisingly, those gardens don't
- [Leading with Mind and Heart: A Leadership Blueprint for 2025](https://dougthorpe.com/leading-with-mind-and-heart-a-leadership-blueprint-for-2025/): Remember the last time you felt truly inspired by someone? Not just impressed by their smarts or moved by their enthusiasm, but genuinely lifted up by their presence? That's what happens when a leader successfully marries their mind's attention with their heart's affection. Robert Greenleaf, the father of servant leadership, first urged us to "harness
- [Mark Twain's Timeless Wisdom for Today's Business World](https://dougthorpe.com/mark-twains-timeless-wisdom-for-todays-business-world/): I'm taking another page from history to find business wisdom and advice for today. Samuel Clemens—better known as Mark Twain—was a riverboat pilot, silver miner, journalist, and novelist who became America's most quotable voice. He never ran a Fortune 500 company or attended a business school, but his razor-sharp observations about human nature cut straight
- [Will Rogers' Cowboy Wisdom for Modern Business Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/will-rogers-cowboy-wisdom-for-modern-business-leaders/): Back in the 1920s and 30s, a rope-twirling Cherokee cowboy from Oklahoma became one of America's most trusted voices. Will Rogers never ran a corporation or got an MBA, but his plain-spoken wisdom cuts through the noise of modern business better than most leadership books on the shelf today. Rogers had a gift for taking
- [Speaking Your Worth Without the Ego: A Guide to Confident Self-Advocacy](https://dougthorpe.com/speaking-your-worth-without-the-ego-a-guide-to-confident-self-advocacy/): You know that person at the party who somehow makes every story circle back to their own accomplishments? The one who can turn a conversation about someone else's vacation into a monologue about their luxury travels? Yeah, nobody wants to be that person—especially at work. But here's the problem: when you're trying to advance your
- [10 Things I learned About Life and Business from a Single Mom](https://dougthorpe.com/10-things-i-learned-about-life-and-business-from-a-single-mom/): I was raised as the only child of a hard working single Mom. In my formative years, she taught me so much about life and business.
- [How to Overcome Tough Circumstances](https://dougthorpe.com/overcoming-tough-circumstances/): Everyone has a story. Life is hard (sometimes). We all experience something in life that makes it hard. In addition, if you look around, you will find stories everywhere of how people overcame a gutwrenching circumstance to emerge victorious, coming out the other side. Health concerns, emotional and physical abuse, poverty, poor education, bankruptcy, and
- [Why I Do What I Do: The Power of Having Someone in Your Corner](https://dougthorpe.com/why-i-do-what-i-do-the-power-of-having-someone-in-your-corner/): I do this because I know what it's like to need someone in your corner. That's the simple answer. But like most simple truths, there's a story behind it that explains everything. The Gift My Mother Gave Me I grew up in San Antonio, Texas—just me and my mom. My dad died before I turned
- [Leadership Development Is Just Like Process Improvement in Manufacturing (And Here's Why That Matters)](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-development-is-just-like-process-improvement-in-manufacturing-and-heres-why-that-matters/): At first glance, a factory floor and a leadership development program might seem worlds apart. But dig a little deeper, and you'll discover they share the same DNA. Both are about transforming raw potential into consistent, high-quality results. Both require constant attention, measurement, and refinement. And both can make or break an organization's success. If
- [Why Traditional Leadership Strategies Are Failing in 2025 (And What Actually Works Now)](https://dougthorpe.com/why-traditional-leadership-strategies-are-failing-in-2025-and-what-actually-works-now/): If you're still using leadership strategies from 2019, you're fighting today's battles with yesterday's weapons. The harsh reality? What worked when everyone sat in the same office, had similar career expectations, and communicated face-to-face has become not just ineffective—it's counterproductive. Modern leadership isn't about adapting old methods; it's about completely reimagining how we guide, motivate,
- [The Small Business Owner's Worst Nightmare](https://dougthorpe.com/the-small-business-owners-worst-nightmare/): Starting and running a small business can be a blessing and a curse. The dream can become a nightmare. Yet there can be great rewards too. There are so many things that can get in the way of running and owning a successful business. You hear people talk about "cash is king" or growing the
- [Why Smart Employees Seem Unmotivated (The Alignment Problem Most SMB Owners Miss)](https://dougthorpe.com/why-smart-employees-seem-unmotivated-the-alignment-problem-most-smb-owners-miss/): You hired Alex because their resume was impressive and they nailed the interview. During their first month, they asked thoughtful questions, stayed late to learn systems, and seemed genuinely excited about the role. But six months later, something's changed. They do their tasks, but there's no spark. They attend meetings but rarely contribute ideas. They
- [7 Warning Signs Your Employees Don't Understand Their Role (And Why It's Costing You Money)](https://dougthorpe.com/7-warning-signs-your-employees-dont-understand-their-role-and-why-its-costing-you-money/): If you're constantly explaining the same priorities to the same people, feeling like a broken record in your own business, you're not alone. And more importantly, you're not crazy. Picture this: It's Monday morning, and Sarah from marketing is at your door again, asking whether she should focus on the trade show booth design or
- [Beyond "OK Boomer": Why Dismissing Experience is Bad Business](https://dougthorpe.com/beyond-ok-boomer-why-dismissing-experience-is-bad-business/): Look, I get it. When someone drops an "OK Boomer" on me, I'm supposed to just chuckle and shuffle off to my rocking chair, right? Maybe complain about kids these days while squinting at my flip phone? Here's the thing though - that assumption is about as outdated as a dial-up modem. The Real Digital
- [The Gen Z Work Preference That's Breaking Every Leadership Playbook](https://dougthorpe.com/the-gen-z-work-preference-thats-breaking-every-leadership-playbook/): Why the generation everyone thought would work fully remote is actually craving something completely different—and what it means for leaders in 2025. Here's a story that'll make you question everything you think you know about leading younger employees. Last month, I was coaching a VP who was pulling his hair out. His team was scattered
- [Show Up, Know Your Lines, Have a Take: What Tom Hanks Taught Me About Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/show-up-know-your-lines-have-a-take-what-tom-hanks-taught-me-about-leadership/): Tom Hanks once shared a story that's stuck with me ever since I heard it. He was on a movie set when a director absolutely lost it on an actor who showed up late, unprepared, and seemingly checked out. Instead of a long lecture about professionalism, the director boiled it down to three simple requirements:
- [Do Your Beliefs Own You? Or Do You Own Your Beliefs?](https://dougthorpe.com/do-your-beliefs-own-you-or-do-you-own-your-beliefs/): Why Your Hidden Assumptions May Be Your Biggest Business Obstacle Sarah has talked about starting her consulting business for three years. She's got the expertise, the network, and even potential clients asking when she'll make the leap. Yet every time the conversation comes up, there's always a reason to wait: "I need more experience," "The
- [The Great Migration: Why Entrepreneurs Are Abandoning Traditional Social Media for Reddit](https://dougthorpe.com/the-great-migration-why-entrepreneurs-are-abandoning-traditional-social-media-for-reddit/): How the "Front Page of the Internet" Became the New Boardroom for Business Leaders The social media landscape is experiencing a seismic shift that many business leaders are just beginning to recognize. While entrepreneurs and executives once flocked to LinkedIn for networking and Twitter for thought leadership, a surprising platform has emerged as the new
- [The 5 Laws Every Leader Should Know: A Practical Guide to Leadership That Actually Works](https://dougthorpe.com/the-5-laws-every-leader-should-know-a-practical-guide-to-leadership-that-actually-works/): Leadership isn't magic—it's about understanding how the world really works and adapting accordingly. Think of these five laws as your leadership compass, each pointing you toward decisions that actually make a difference. Like a good recipe, they work best when you understand not just what they are, but how they blend together. Murphy's Law: "Anything
- [SMART Goals for 2025: Your Compass in an Unpredictable World](https://dougthorpe.com/smart-goals-for-2025-your-compass-in-an-unpredictable-world/): Why Your Old Goal-Setting Playbook Needs an Update Remember when setting goals felt straightforward? You'd write down what you wanted, make a plan, and work toward it step by step. Those days feel like ancient history now. Today's world changes faster than a teenager's mood, and what worked yesterday might be completely irrelevant tomorrow. Welcome
- [The Management Advice That Actually Makes Things Worse](https://dougthorpe.com/the-management-advice-that-actually-makes-things-worse/): Every week, another leadership guru pops up with the "revolutionary" management technique that's going to transform your team. Social media feeds overflow with motivational posts about open doors and work-life balance. Conference speakers share their "proven frameworks" for managing people. Here's the problem: much of the most popular management advice not only doesn't work—it actually
- [The Human Connection Crisis: Why Remote Leaders Are Failing Their Teams](https://dougthorpe.com/the-human-connection-crisis-why-remote-leaders-are-failing-their-teams/): Sarah thought she was managing her remote team well. Weekly Zoom calls, Slack check-ins, quarterly reviews—all the boxes were checked. Her team hit their numbers, meetings ran on schedule, and everyone seemed "fine" in their little video squares. Then her top performer quit with two weeks' notice, citing "feeling disconnected and undervalued." Sound familiar? Sarah's
- [Leading Without Authority: The Art of Influence in Modern Organizations](https://dougthorpe.com/leading-without-authority-the-art-of-influence-in-modern-organizations/): In modern organizations characterized by matrix structures, leading without formal authority is essential. This approach shifts focus from traditional hierarchical command to influence-based leadership, emphasizing relationship-building, emotional intelligence, and expert credibility. Successful leaders harness principles of persuasion, fostering collaboration and consensus to drive results across diverse teams and functions.
- [The Leadership Sweet Spot: Finding Balance Between Support and Autonomy](https://dougthorpe.com/the-leadership-sweet-spot-finding-balance-between-support-and-autonomy/): The balance between micromanagement and chaos is essential for effective leadership. Research shows that structured autonomy enhances employee satisfaction, creativity, and productivity, significantly benefiting businesses. Leaders should foster an environment of trust, support, and clear expectations, allowing team members to navigate their roles independently, ultimately leading to better performance and retention.
- [The Unspoken Contracts: How Oaths Shape Our Understanding of Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/the-unspoken-contracts-how-oaths-shape-our-understanding-of-leadership/): This post explores the significance of oaths in shaping leadership. It examines various examples from youth and professional organizations, highlighting core values like integrity, service, and accountability. These oaths serve as ethical frameworks, encouraging leaders to commit to personal growth and community impact, ultimately defining effective leadership in diverse contexts.
- [From Manager to Leader: The Journey Every SMB Owner Must Take](https://dougthorpe.com/from-manager-to-leader-the-journey-every-smb-owner-must-take/): The content discusses the transition from management to leadership for business owners facing stagnation. It emphasizes that effective leadership involves empowering others and fostering a collaborative environment rather than micromanaging. Successful leaders inspire teams, develop problem-solving skills, and focus on strategic growth, ultimately revitalizing both their business and personal lives.
- [Boosting Employee Engagement with the Big 5 Performance Framework](https://dougthorpe.com/boosting-employee-engagement-with-the-big-5-performance-framework/): Employee engagement is more than just a buzzword—it has become a top priority for organizations aiming to improve productivity, retain talent, and align teams with strategic goals. Yet, recent employee engagement trends paint a troubling picture. Research suggests that engagement levels are at a 10-year low, with many employees feeling disconnected from their roles and
- [Why We're Rebuilding Big 5 Performance From the Ground Up (And Why We Need You to Help)](https://dougthorpe.com/why-were-rebuilding-big-5-performance-from-the-ground-up-and-why-we-need-you-to-help/): The moment of truth came during a customer call last month. Sarah, an HR director at a 200-person manufacturing company, was walking me through her team's experience with Big 5 Performance. "Doug," she said, "your platform has transformed how we think about employee development. But honestly? My managers still groan when it's time to log
- [The Leadership Trinity: How Emotional Intelligence, Communication, and Influence Work Together](https://dougthorpe.com/the-leadership-trinity-how-emotional-intelligence-communication-and-influence-work-together/): Effective leadership today resembles a master chef crafting a meal, requiring emotional intelligence, communication, and influence. Leaders must navigate relationships, express authenticity, and actively listen. Trust and value creation form the foundation of influence. By mastering these interconnected skills, leaders foster genuine connections and inspire collective progression toward shared goals.
- [Navigating the Silver Tsunami: Strategies for Buyers and Sellers in Today's Market | Ep 411](https://dougthorpe.com/ep-411/): Capital Markets Expert Exposes the Silver Tsunami Crisis: Why 90% of Business Deals Are Failing Doug (Host):Well, hello again everyone. I hope you're having a great day or night, wherever you may be. And I say that because my guest is graciously joining us. It's nighttime where he is. But, this is another episode of
- [How to Actually Be Supportive: The Words That Help (and Hurt)](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-actually-be-supportive-the-words-that-help-and-hurt/): Leadership influence and impact can be challenging, especially when it comes down to that one on one moment when the other person is in distress. Here are a few thoughts on ways to see better outcomes; what to do and what not to do. We've all been there. A friend texts you about their terrible
- [The Power of Daily Reading: A Journey from Band Director to Success Coach | Ep 409](https://dougthorpe.com/the-power-of-daily-reading-a-journey-from-band-director-to-success-coach/): Introduction The Discovery That Changed Everything: Three Life-Changing Books So the first thing they did was they gave me three books. They gave me thinking, grow Rich, Buy the Bowling Hill, success, The Glenn Bland Method, and The Greatest Salesman in the world, Bob Medina. Well, I'd never been exposed to a self-help book, and
- [True Leadership Begins with Service: Why Humility Drives High-Performing Teams](https://dougthorpe.com/true-leadership-begins-with-service-why-humility-drives-high-performing-teams/): Leadership in today’s world carries more responsibility than simply managing numbers or resources. At its core, effective leadership is about serving others—with humility, integrity, and a willingness to lift others up. Doug Thorpe’s powerful assertion, “If serving is beneath you, leadership is beyond you,” encapsulates the foundational reality: the best leaders are those who see
- [The True North of Leadership: Why Serving is the Ultimate Path to Impact](https://dougthorpe.com/the-true-north-of-leadership-why-serving-is-the-ultimate-path-to-impact/): In a title-driven world, effective leadership is often overlooked. Servant leadership, introduced by Robert K. Greenleaf, emphasizes serving others rather than asserting power. This approach fosters higher employee engagement, reduced turnover, and increased innovation, shifting focus from fear-based compliance to nurturing growth and community within organizations. True leadership lies in serving.
- [The River of Culture: Why Your Company's Flow Matters More Than You Think](https://dougthorpe.com/the-river-of-culture-why-your-companys-flow-matters-more-than-you-think/): Every organization possesses a culture, regardless of acknowledgment. Without guidance, culture can stagnate or become destructive, leading to informal power dynamics and poor communication. Intentional cultural direction fosters positive outcomes, ensuring transparency, recognition, and collaboration. Leaders must continually assess and adapt their approach to maintain a healthy, evolving organizational culture.
- [Beyond the Silver Tsunami: The Human Side of Business Acquisition](https://dougthorpe.com/beyond-the-silver-tsunami-the-human-side-of-business-acquisition/): The "Silver Tsunami" has become the buzzword du jour in entrepreneurial circles. Baby boomers are retiring, cash-flowing businesses are hitting the market, and suddenly everyone's talking about skipping the startup grind to buy an established business instead. The pitch sounds irresistible: Why struggle with a risky startup when you can acquire a proven business with
- [The Power Shift: Why Smart Leaders Focus on Energy, Not Time](https://dougthorpe.com/the-power-shift-why-smart-leaders-focus-on-energy-not-time/): The content argues that traditional time management fails because it ignores individual energy rhythms. Instead of forcing tasks into a time-based schedule, leaders should identify their peak energy periods for deep work and allocate lower-energy tasks accordingly. This energy-first approach enhances productivity, decision-making, and engagement, leading to better leadership outcomes.
- [The Leader's Secret Weapon: Using the Eisenhower Matrix to Master Your Time](https://dougthorpe.com/the-leaders-secret-weapon-using-the-eisenhower-matrix-to-master-your-time/): The Eisenhower Matrix helps leaders prioritize tasks by categorizing them into four quadrants based on urgency and importance. This framework guides leaders to focus on strategic activities that drive long-term success, minimizing distractions and reactive behaviors. By applying this tool, leaders can enhance productivity and prevent burnout while fostering team growth.
- [I Tested Every Major AI Tool for 6 Months - Here's What Actually Works](https://dougthorpe.com/i-tested-every-major-ai-tool-for-6-months-heres-what-actually-works/): Twelve months ago, I was drowning in work. Like most business owners, I was wearing too many hats, juggling too many clients, and feeling like I was always one step behind. That's when I decided to dive headfirst into the AI revolution everyone was talking about. But here's the thing - I didn't want to
- [Why Smart Leaders Document Their Wins (And How It Changes Everything)](https://dougthorpe.com/why-smart-leaders-document-their-wins-and-how-it-changes-everything/): Picture this: You're in an interview for your dream leadership role, and the hiring manager asks about your biggest impact. Do you stumble through vague responsibilities, or do you confidently share specific, measurable wins that made a real difference? The leaders who land the best opportunities know the secret – they track their accomplishments like
- [The OODA Loop: A Fighter Pilot's Secret to Lightning-Fast Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/the-ooda-loop-a-fighter-pilots-secret-to-lightning-fast-leadership/): Picture this: You're driving down a busy highway when suddenly traffic starts backing up ahead. What do you do? You observe the situation, orient yourself to understand what's happening, decide on the best lane to switch to, and then act by making your move. Congratulations – you just used the OODA Loop without even knowing
- [What "Common Sense Leadership" Actually Means (And Why It's Not What You Think)](https://dougthorpe.com/what-common-sense-leadership-actually-means-and-why-its-not-what-you-think/): I've been using the phrase "Leadership Powered by Common Sense" for years. It's been my tagline, my podcast name, my brand identifier. But lately, I've realized something troubling: nobody really knows what it means. Including me, sometimes. When I say "common sense leadership," people nod knowingly. But when I dig deeper—when I ask what they
- [Your Next Step Toward Authentic Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/authentic-leadership-vs-fake-it-til-you-make-it-why-emotional-intelligence-beats-performance-in-2025/): My early years as a junior officer in the Army proved to me something that was impossible to deny. The level of rank on someone's collar does not make them any more effective as a leader. Yes, seniority usually weeded out poor performers, but in the lower ranks while the system was waiting on results,
- [The Leadership Crisis Nobody Wants to Talk About (And Why Your Next Promotion Might Break You)](https://dougthorpe.com/the-leadership-crisis-nobody-wants-to-talk-about-and-why-your-next-promotion-might-break-you/): The call came at 11:47 PM on a Tuesday. Sarah, a VP at a fast-growing tech company, was supposed to be celebrating—her team had just closed their biggest deal of the year. Instead, she was sitting in her home office, laptop open, responding to "urgent" emails that could have waited until morning. "Doug," she said
- [The Imposter Syndrome Trap: How 43% of Leaders Are Sabotaging Their Own Success](https://dougthorpe.com/the-imposter-syndrome-trap-how-43-of-leaders-are-sabotaging-their-own-success/): Here's the fourth article in my "Stop Leading On Empty" series: Jennifer had just closed the biggest deal in company history. Instead of celebrating, she spent the night wondering when everyone would realize she "didn't belong here." She wasn't alone—nearly half of all leaders feel the same way, trapped in a cycle of self-doubt that
- [The Generational Leadership Gap: Why Your Management Style Is Alienating 70% of Your Workforce](https://dougthorpe.com/the-generational-leadership-gap-why-your-management-style-is-alienating-70-of-your-workforce/): Here's the third article in the "Stop Leading On Empty" series: "They just don't have work ethic," complained the CEO about his Gen Z employees. Meanwhile, those same employees were working side hustles, building personal brands, and questioning why "face time" mattered more than results. The disconnect was so profound that within six months, he'd
- [The Leadership Burnout Epidemic: When 'Always On' Becomes Always Empty](https://dougthorpe.com/the-leadership-burnout-epidemic-when-always-on-becomes-always-empty/): At 11:47 PM, Mark sent his fifteenth email since dinner. By 6:15 AM, he was already checking responses. He called it "dedication." His family called it "never being present." His body called it a warning. Mark isn't unique—he's part of a silent epidemic sweeping through leadership ranks across every industry. Recent studies reveal that 60%
- [Why Your Vision Isn't Landing (And How to Fix It)](https://dougthorpe.com/why-your-vision-isnt-landing-and-how-to-fix-it/): You've said it a dozen times. Maybe two dozen. Your team nods, takes notes, asks clarifying questions. The meeting ends with what feels like alignment. Then a week later, you're staring at results that look nothing like what you discussed. Sound familiar? You're not alone. Most executives I work with are brilliant strategists and capable
- [The Paradox of "Common Sense": Why Simple Answers Need Deeper Impact](https://dougthorpe.com/the-paradox-of-common-sense-why-simple-answers-need-deeper-impact/): In the intricate landscape of modern leadership, professionals often find themselves navigating a deluge of information and competing priorities. The constant search for clarity amidst this noise naturally draws individuals towards straightforward, digestible truths. This inherent human inclination towards simplicity means that "common sense" advice can be incredibly appealing, offering a seemingly easy path through
- [Tired of Fitting In? Good.](https://dougthorpe.com/tired-of-fitting-in-good/): Let's be honest. If you're reading this, chances are you're feeling it too. That low hum of frustration, the quiet rebellion bubbling beneath the surface of every 'find your niche,' 'stay in your lane,' and 'be original' mantra thrown your way. You're a coach, an entrepreneur, a visionary – and frankly, you're tired of trying
- [Why I'm Done Talking About "Transformational Leadership" (And What I'm Focusing on Instead)](https://dougthorpe.com/why-im-done-talking-about-transformational-leadership-and-what-im-focusing-on-instead/): After 30 years in leadership—from military command to Wall Street pressure to building five companies—I'm making a change. Not to my approach, but to how I talk about it. I'm done with the buzzwords. Done with the generic promises. Done pretending that what worked in 2015 still works today. Because here's what I've learned: The
- [The Power of Leverage: Creating Maximum Impact with Strategic Principles](https://dougthorpe.com/the-power-of-leverage-creating-maximum-impact-with-strategic-principles/): "If you give me a lever and a place to stand, I can move the world." – Archimedes Most of us share a common drive: we want to make a real difference. We want our work to matter, our efforts to count, and our impact to ripple outward in meaningful ways. But here's the frustrating
- [Using Principles to Create Leverage and Make an Impact](https://dougthorpe.com/using-principles-to-create-leverage-and-make-an-impact/): Making an impact requires a lot of effort, and it can be challenging to keep working at it. Sometimes it feels like we are constantly working but not making any progress.
- [A Veteran's Reflection on Memorial Day: 50 Years of Change](https://dougthorpe.com/a-veterans-reflection-on-memorial-day-50-years-of-change/): You know, Memorial Day hits different when you've walked in those boots yourself. I was in high school during Vietnam ('68 - '71), and let me tell you - watching soldiers coming home from that war was like walking into a cold shower that never ended. Fifty years later, as I watch my grandkids play
- [The Power of Common-Sense Leadership: Cutting Through the Complexity](https://dougthorpe.com/the-power-of-common-sense-leadership-cutting-through-the-complexity/): In today's business landscape, leadership theories and methodologies seem to multiply by the day. From transformational leadership to servant leadership, from agile frameworks to complex management matrices—the sheer volume of leadership advice can be overwhelming. Yet, what if the most effective leadership approach isn't found in complex theories but in something we already possess: common
- [The Employee Engagement Crisis: Why Your Team is Struggling (and How to Fix It)](https://dougthorpe.com/the-employee-engagement-crisis-why-your-team-is-struggling-and-how-to-fix-it/): Picture this: You walk into your office and notice something feels off. People are going through the motions, but that spark—that energy that makes a team truly hum—is missing. You're not alone. Employee engagement has hit a 10-year low, with only 31% of U.S. employees truly engaged at work, down from its peak of 36%
- [Why Your Employees Feel Invisible (And How Monthly Check-ins Can Change Everything)](https://dougthorpe.com/why-your-employees-feel-invisible-and-how-monthly-check-ins-can-change-everything/): Picture this: You're at a big party, surrounded by people, but you might as well be invisible. That's exactly how 1 in 5 employees feel at work right now, according to recent data from Harvard Business Review. Despite all the Slack channels, Zoom meetings, and office social events, workers are feeling more alone than ever.
- [What's in a Number? A Lot If It Stars on WhatsApp](https://dougthorpe.com/whats-in-a-number-a-lot-if-it-stars-on-whatsapp/): Recently there has been a rise in the number of times someone on LinkedIn posing as an agent for someone else, proposing a deal or to make connections by going off LinkedIn to WhatsApp. I'm not usually a suspicious person, living my life in a fairly trusting way. But I was very curious about the
- [The Value of Staying Disturbed: A Leadership Philosophy](https://dougthorpe.com/the-value-of-staying-disturbed-a-leadership-philosophy/): The meeting had been going on for a few minutes, when a junior executive rushed in, late. The boss looked up and glared. The junior said "excuse me, I didn't mean to disturb." The executive grinned and said, "No problem, I've been disturbed for quite some time." There were uncomfortable chuckles. What can you make
- [Look Back for 2017](https://dougthorpe.com/look-back-2017/): Here are my top 10 most viewed posts for 2017. 1. Great Leaders Don’t Set Out to Be a Leader 2. Don’t Widen the Plate 3. Covenant Leadership: A Radical Change of Heart 4. Here’s a Proven 6 Step Way to Manage a Career Change 5. 10 Things Every Entrepreneur And Executive Should Expect From Their Master Leadership Coach 6. 5
- [Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 2025: The Competitive Edge in Modern Business](https://dougthorpe.com/emotional-intelligence-in-leadership-2025-the-competitive-edge-in-modern-business/): In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, emotional intelligence (EI or EQ) has emerged as the defining factor that separates exceptional leaders from merely competent ones. As we navigate through 2025, the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership has reached unprecedented levels, with studies showing that EI accounts for nearly 90% of what moves people up
- [The Entrepreneurial Operating System: Balancing Structure and Humanity in Business](https://dougthorpe.com/the-entrepreneurial-operating-system-balancing-structure-and-humanity-in-business/): In today's complex business landscape, entrepreneurs and business leaders are constantly searching for frameworks to bring order to chaos, clarity to confusion, and direction to their teams. The Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) has emerged as one of the most popular business operating systems over the past decade, with more than 170,000 companies using its tools
- [What's in a Name? The Identity Crisis of a Business Helper](https://dougthorpe.com/whats-in-a-name-the-identity-crisis-of-a-business-helper/): You know that awkward moment at parties when someone asks, "So, what do you do?" and your brain short-circuits trying to find the perfect job title? Welcome to my daily existence. I'm a business coach. No wait—consultant. Actually, advisor might be more accurate. Sometimes confidant? Professional shoulder-to-cry-on? Corporate therapist without the license? Business BFF? My
- [Why Gen Z is Saying "No Thanks" to Your Business Buzzwords](https://dougthorpe.com/why-gen-z-is-saying-no-thanks-to-your-business-buzzwords/): In today's workplace, we're experiencing a fascinating clash of communication styles. As Gen Z (born roughly between 1997 and 2012) enters the workforce in greater numbers, they're bringing fresh perspectives on everything from work-life balance to corporate language. And one thing is becoming increasingly clear: many traditional business buzzwords are falling flat with this new
- [Orchestration Leadership: The Symphony of Human and AI Collaboration](https://dougthorpe.com/orchestration-leadership-the-symphony-of-human-and-ai-collaboration/): In today's rapidly evolving workplace, a new leadership paradigm is emerging—one that requires skills beyond traditional management approaches. I call this "orchestration leadership," and like a conductor guiding a symphony orchestra, today's leaders must harmonize a diverse ensemble of talents, including both human colleagues and artificial intelligence. The Conductor's Perspective Think about what a conductor
- [Business Administration vs. Business Management in Small to Mid-Sized Businesses: Navigating the Differences in 2025](https://dougthorpe.com/business-administration-vs-business-management-in-small-to-mid-sized-businesses-navigating-the-differences-in-2025/): In today's dynamic business landscape, small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) face unique challenges that require both effective administration and management. While these terms are often used interchangeably in casual conversation, understanding their distinct functions and how they complement each other can be crucial for business success, especially as we navigate the evolving business environment of
- [The Sacred Bond: Understanding the Solemn Meaning of Aggie Muster](https://dougthorpe.com/the-sacred-bond-understanding-the-solemn-meaning-of-aggie-muster/): Pardon this brief detour in my usual posts. But this day represents a vey special and somewhat sacred part of my life. As university traditions go, I believe the following may be the most meaningful and powerful of all. Every year on April 21st, as spring blankets the Texas landscape, something extraordinary happens. In hundreds
- [Inspect What You Expect: The Common-Sense Path to Better Results](https://dougthorpe.com/inspect-what-you-expect-the-common-sense-path-to-better-results/): Have you ever asked someone to do something, walked away, and then returned to find the result wasn't at all what you had in mind? Or maybe you've been on the receiving end - working hard on a project only to discover your boss or client had a completely different vision of the finished product?
- [AI as the New Talent Stack: How Business Leaders Must Adapt](https://dougthorpe.com/ai-as-the-new-talent-stack-how-business-leaders-must-adapt/): In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, a profound shift is occurring that's comparable to the industrial revolution – but at lightning speed. Artificial intelligence is no longer just a fancy tool or competitive advantage; it's becoming a fundamental part of the organizational talent stack. For business leaders, this isn't simply about adopting new technology –
- [Leadership and Imagination](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-and-imagination/): Sometimes we cannot see the possibilities around us when our imagination has been clouded or turned off.
- [Embrace the Discomfort: Operating Out of Your Comfort Zone](https://dougthorpe.com/embrace-the-discomfort-operating-out-of-your-comfort-zone/): Operating outside of your comfort zone is like stepping into uncharted territory. It requires taking risks, facing uncertainty, and pushing yourself beyond your limits. While it may seem daunting, operating out of your comfort zone can lead to personal growth, new opportunities, and a sense of achievement. We all face moments in our lives when
- [The Emotional Side of Selling Your Business: What the ETA Movement Overlooks](https://dougthorpe.com/the-emotional-side-of-selling-your-business-what-the-eta-movement-overlooks/): There's a movement sweeping through business schools and investment firms. It's called "Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition" (ETA). Young, ambitious MBA graduates and career-changers armed with investor backing are hunting for established small businesses to buy. They study spreadsheets. They calculate ROI. They create elaborate acquisition strategies and funding models. They attend workshops on how to find
- [Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast: Why the Two Must Work Together for Business Success](https://dougthorpe.com/culture-eats-strategy-for-breakfast-why-the-two-must-work-together-for-business-success/): Culture vs Strategy: A Guide for Business Leaders The late management guru Peter Drucker famously said, "Culture eats strategy for breakfast." While this quote has become something of a business cliché, its enduring popularity speaks to a fundamental truth: even the most brilliant strategy will fail if your organizational culture doesn't support it. However, Drucker's
- [The Strategic Planning Paradox: Why Businesses Keep Failing to Plan for the Future](https://dougthorpe.com/the-strategic-planning-paradox-why-businesses-keep-failing-to-plan-for-the-future/): In today's fast-paced business environment, it's astonishing how many companies—from small startups to established mid-sized businesses and even some larger organizations—either ignore strategic planning altogether or treat it as a perfunctory exercise. Despite the clear benefits of looking ahead and creating roadmaps for future growth, many business leaders find themselves trapped in the cycle of
- [8 Warning Signs That Your Supervisor is Incompetent](https://dougthorpe.com/supervisor-is-incompetent/): We have all had bad bosses, but how do we know if our supervisor is really a bad one? Here are 8 warnings signs that your boss can’t do the job, along with ideas about what a great supervisor should look like. 1. Never Has Time for You. Is your supervisor “too busy” to meet,
- [Breaking Through the Invisible Wall](https://dougthorpe.com/breaking-through-the-invisible-wall/): In business, there is an invisible wall between good management and great leadership. You can break through that wall.
- [Finding Your Anchor in a Sea of Uncertainty: Reclaiming Peace in a Chaotic World](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-your-anchor-in-a-sea-of-uncertainty-reclaiming-peace-in-a-chaotic-world/): The news cycle is a relentless beast. Political debates rage, social tensions simmer, and the weight of "big picture" events can feel crushing. It’s easy to get swept away by the current of national discourse, to feel like a tiny boat tossed about in a vast, unpredictable ocean. The political climate, particularly in the United
- [The Curious Mind: From Taking Things Apart to Building Business Dreams](https://dougthorpe.com/the-curious-mind-from-taking-things-apart-to-building-business-dreams/): Where it all started I've always been that kid who needed to understand how things worked. Not just on the surface – I mean really understand. While other kids were content playing with their toys, I was the one with a screwdriver in hand, carefully dismantling them to see what made them tick. (And yes,
- [Ways to Explore the Power of Your Mind's Attention and Your Heart's Affection](https://dougthorpe.com/harness-the-power-of-your-minds-attention-and-your-hearts-affection/): Nothing can be more powerful than the exact moment you harness the power of your mind's attention and your heart's affection.
- [The Shade We Cast: Leadership Beyond the Spotlight](https://dougthorpe.com/the-shade-we-cast-leadership-beyond-the-spotlight/): Leadership isn't about basking in the glow of success; it's about the shade you provide for those you lead and those considering joining your ranks. It's about the values you embody, the outcomes you champion, the influences you wield, and the lasting impact you create. True leaders understand that their role is to nurture growth,
- [SMART Goals 2.0: The Evolution of Strategic Goal Setting in Current Business Ownership](https://dougthorpe.com/smart-goals-2-0-the-evolution-of-strategic-goal-setting-in-current-business-ownership/): In the dynamic landscape of business acquisition and entrepreneurship, the concept of SMART goals has evolved far beyond its original 1981 introduction. Today's successful business leaders are reimagining this classic framework to meet contemporary challenges and opportunities. Let's explore how modern entrepreneurs are leveraging SMART goals to drive successful business transitions and sustainable growth. The
- [Why I'm Not Letting My Business Journey Flop](https://dougthorpe.com/why-im-not-letting-my-business-journey-flop/): So I asked one of my younger clients to help me change the voice in my message. We talked a bit then decided she'd just do the damn thing in a full blown blog post. So here it goes.... Fr fr, starting your own business hits different.Like, one minute I'm grinding in my corporate job,
- [Stop Doing This! Why Knowing What NOT To Do is Key to Success](https://dougthorpe.com/stop-doing-this-why-knowing-what-not-to-do-is-key-to-success/): Intro We're constantly bombarded with advice on what to do to achieve our goals. Learn this skill! Read that book! Implement this strategy! While action is crucial, what about the flip side? Often, knowing what not to do, and more importantly, stopping certain behaviors, is just as, if not more, important for success. Think about
- [The Lost Art of Common Sense: Navigating the Data Deluge and Finding the Simple Path](https://dougthorpe.com/the-lost-art-of-common-sense-navigating-the-data-deluge-and-finding-the-simple-path/): We live in the age of data. A world where every click, every purchase, every interaction leaves a digital footprint. This deluge of information promises to illuminate the path to perfect decision-making. And while data can be a powerful tool, it's also creating a new kind of problem: decision paralysis. We're drowning in data, yet
- [The 4-Year Fork in the Road](https://dougthorpe.com/the-4-year-fork-in-the-road/): As someone who makes a living helping managers and executives become better leaders, I always take a moment when the political climate changes. Why? Because this is where we observe leadership both at its best and at its worse, usually within nano-seconds of each other. All the rancor and rhetoric around the change of government
- [4 Core Elements of Great Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/4-core-elements-of-great-leaders/): Those of you who follow me know that for some time I've been speaking about a fundamental belief we've got a gap in leadership in the country and in the world. The things we can do to become better leaders can make the world a better place for everybody, whether it's at work or in
- [Breaking the Chains of Your Leadership Paradigms: A Comprehensive Guide to Enhanced Decision-Making](https://dougthorpe.com/breaking-the-chains-of-your-leadership-paradigms-a-comprehensive-guide-to-enhanced-decision-making/): Within the dynamic landscape of modern business, leadership success increasingly depends on our ability to recognize and transcend our mental models. These paradigms – our deeply embedded ways of seeing and interpreting the world – act as both our greatest allies and potential limitations in business leadership. As Peter Drucker once noted, "The greatest danger
- [The Impact of Leader Well-being on Service Delivery: Why Self-Care is Essential](https://dougthorpe.com/the-impact-of-leader-well-being-on-service-delivery-why-self-care-is-essential/): The well-being of leaders can have a significant impact on the service delivery within organizations. As a leader, while having responsibility for other’s wellbeing, it can be very easy to forget about yourself. Long hours, skipping meals, and neglecting exercise to meet the goal can take a toll on general mental well-being. Similar to the
- [Balancing Client Demands and Personal Health: A Guide for Service Industry Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/balancing-client-demands-and-personal-health-a-guide-for-service-industry-leaders/): Introduction The service industry is often fast paced, with new clients always emerging on the scene, sometimes in a blink of an eye. When you choose to build your business in the service industry, you must be ready to meet all client demands, however over a long period of time this can take a toll
- [Merry Christmas 2024 and Happy Holidays](https://dougthorpe.com/merry-christmas-2024-and-happy-holidays/): As we wrap up another remarkable year, I wanted to take a moment to share a personal message from my heart to yours. 🎄 To all our amazing entrepreneurs, advisees, and podcast listeners - Merry Christmas! While I know not everyone celebrates this particular holiday, please know that this greeting comes from a place of
- [Leaders: Compassion vs Empathy?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-compassion-vs-empathy/): I hear a lot these days about leaders needing to be more empathetic. As noble as that may sound, empathy alone can get you in trouble. Kim Ades was a recent guest on my podcast, "Leadership Powered by Common Sense." She spoke about the risk of being empathetic as a leader if empathy is all
- [Boost Your Career: Why an Online Degree Might Be a Worthwhile Investment](https://dougthorpe.com/boost-your-career-why-an-online-degree-might-be-a-worthwhile-investment/): In an increasingly competitive job market, staying ahead often requires a proactive approach to skill development and education. Pursuing an online degree has emerged as a flexible and cost-effective solution for professionals looking to elevate their careers., but is it truly worth it? Let’s explore the reasons why an online degree could be the career
- [Dump the Resolutions - there's a much better way to a great year!](https://dougthorpe.com/dump-the-resolutions-theres-a-much-better-way-to-a-great-year/): You find yourself at the beginning of the year and it’s time to set your New Year’s Resolutions. STOP. Dump the resolutions this year. Why? They just flat out don’t work. They set you up for failure. 25% of them don’t even last a week! Up to 80% are toast by February. Less than 10%
- [Empowering Diversity: Actionable Strategies for Inclusive Workplaces](https://dougthorpe.com/empowering-diversity-actionable-strategies-for-inclusive-workplaces/): Picture Credit Creating a workplace that embraces diversity and inclusion is no longer just a ‘nice-to-have’—it's a business imperative. Organizations that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) see improvements in innovation, employee satisfaction, and even profitability. But building an inclusive workplace takes more than good intentions—it requires a sustained, actionable approach. This blog will guide
- [Simple Question… Bitter or Better?](https://dougthorpe.com/simple-question-bitter-or-better/): How do you react to these kinds of challenging changes in your life? Bitter or better?
- [Can Executives Really Change Their Behavior?](https://dougthorpe.com/coaching-execs/): My mission is to help successful leaders achieve positive, long-term, measurable change in behavior.
- [How AI Will Revolutionize Leadership Styles and Change the Way We Work](https://dougthorpe.com/how-ai-will-revolutionize-leadership-styles-and-change-the-way-we-work/): The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the world as we know it. From self-driving cars to chatbots and virtual assistants, AI is transforming the way we live and work. In particular, the impact of AI on leadership styles is set to be significant. With AI changing the business landscape rapidly, CEOs and entrepreneurs
- [Leaders: There's a New Way to Understand Change](https://dougthorpe.com/a-new-way-to-understand-change/): Author's NOTE: I wrote the first version of this article in 2018 - a full 2 years BEFORE the whole world locked down and faced the COVID-19 pandemic. Business has not been the same since. At a recent luncheon, I was involved in a discussion that I find becoming more common. The topic was this:
- [The Power of Gratitude in Business Leadership: A Game-Changing Strategy for Success](https://dougthorpe.com/the-power-of-gratitude-in-business-leadership-a-game-changing-strategy-for-success/): In the fast-paced world of business acquisitions and leadership transitions, we often focus intensely on metrics, strategies, and bottom lines. However, there's a powerful force that successful leaders harness that doesn't appear on any balance sheet: gratitude. At HeadwayExec, we've witnessed firsthand how the practice of genuine appreciation transforms not just companies, but entire business
- [Engaging Gen Z: How to Lead the Next Generation in a Hybrid Workplace](https://dougthorpe.com/engaging-gen-z-how-to-lead-the-next-generation-in-a-hybrid-workplace/): The modern workplace is evolving at an unprecedented rate, with the rise of hybrid work models as the new norm. In this fast-changing environment, businesses are struggling to meet the needs of a new generation of workers—Gen Z. Unlike the previous generations, Gen Z employees demand more than just a paycheck; they seek authenticity, flexibility,
- [How Accurate is ChatGPT When Solving Human Interest Questions?](https://dougthorpe.com/how-accurate-is-chatgpt-when-solving-human-interest-questions/): The other day I felt curious and decided to ask ChatGPT a question. I asked "What do you think people ages 30-40 are concerned about most these days?" After all, this is a demographic I do a lot of work with. ChatGPT Responded with..... People in the 30-40 age range are at an interesting crossroads
- [10 Leadership Attributes That Will Make You a Successful Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/24642-2/): Leadership is a journey, not a destination. It’s a continuous process of self-improvement and inspiring others. Here are 10 principles to guide you on your leadership path: 1. Build Your Team and Make Them Great A strong team is the backbone of any successful organization. Invest time in building a team of talented individuals who
- [Casting Your Vision: A Roadmap for Leadership Success](https://dougthorpe.com/casting-your-vision-a-roadmap-for-leadership-success/): Why Casting a Vision Matters As a leader stepping into a new role, casting a vision is more than just a lofty goal. It's a strategic blueprint that guides your team, aligns efforts, and inspires action. A well-defined vision provides clarity, fosters innovation, and motivates individuals to contribute their best. When you cast a vision,
- [The Art and Science of Leadership: Finding the Perfect Balance](https://dougthorpe.com/the-art-and-science-of-leadership-finding-the-perfect-balance/): Leadership, like many other human endeavors, is a complex blend of art and science. While the scientific aspect involves structured processes, data-driven decision-making, and strategic planning, the artistic side encompasses creativity, intuition, and the ability to inspire and motivate. To be an effective leader, one must master both dimensions and strike a delicate balance between
- [The Leap from Corporate to Entrepreneurial: A Guide to Navigating the Risks and Rewards](https://dougthorpe.com/the-leap-from-corporate-to-entrepreneurial-a-guide-to-navigating-the-risks-and-rewards/): The allure of entrepreneurship is undeniable. The promise of autonomy, financial freedom, and the potential to build something from the ground up is a powerful force that draws many away from the stability of a corporate job. However, this leap comes with significant risks. The Risks of Leaving a Steady Paycheck One of the most
- [Leadership, It's in the Bag](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-its-in-the-bag/): When trying to coach leadership, there is one word picture that does so much more than all the others. That picture is golf.
- [Are You Managing Your World or Is Your World Managing You?](https://dougthorpe.com/managing-your-world/): For anyone in management or leadership, you need to take a pause to make some critical assessments. I like to call it recalibration.
- [Leaders: Are You Wearing the Emperor's New Clothes?](https://dougthorpe.com/5796-2/): Leaders need to be cautious about getting too caught up in the excitement of something new. Moving ahead on excitement alone can leave you exposed, just like the Emperor in the fable.
- [From Do-er to Director: Navigating the Transition](https://dougthorpe.com/from-do-er-to-director-navigating-the-transition/): Introduction It's a familiar story: you're a high-performing individual, known for your exceptional work ethic and technical skills. Your dedication and results lead to a promotion, placing you in a leadership role. But this transition from do-er to director can be challenging. While your ability to "do" is what got you here, the expectations of
- [Level Up Your Small Business: The Power of Project Management](https://dougthorpe.com/level-up-your-small-business-the-power-of-project-management/): Introduction Running a small business can be a whirlwind of tasks, deadlines, and unexpected challenges. To navigate this complex landscape successfully, it's essential to have a structured approach. One powerful tool is project management. Often associated with large corporations, project management principles can be adapted to benefit even the smallest of businesses. Benefits of Project
- [The Greatest Secrets to Developing Authentic Executive Presence](https://dougthorpe.com/the-greatest-secrets-to-developing-authentic-executive-presence-ep-324/): Cultivating Executive Presence In the latest episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe engages in a compelling conversation with Inga Hebdon, an accomplished executive coach with an ICF PCC credential. The episode delves into the concept of executive presence, exploring its components, the challenges leaders face, and actionable strategies to develop this
- [Tired of the Corporate Grind? Discover Your Path to Entrepreneurial Freedom](https://dougthorpe.com/tired-of-the-corporate-grind-discover-your-path-to-entrepreneurial-freedom/): Introduction I am pleased to announce the launch of a new chapter in my coaching and consulting business, HeadwayExec. This is a venture that has been several years in the making and now is the time to reveal it to the world. Without a lot of back story, let's just dive in. Are you ready
- [Big 5 Performance Announcement](https://dougthorpe.com/big-5-performance-announcement/): Houston, Tx September 11, 2024 It is with great pleasure and a bit of bittersweet personal feeling that I announce my firm, HeadwayExec, LLC has acquired all of the services and intellectual property rights to "Big 5 Performance" and "Big 5 Works.", the SaaS program and platform developed by my good friend and longtime colleague
- [In Tribute to the Brother I Never Had](https://dougthorpe.com/in-tribute-to-the-brother-i-never-had/): This post is a different sort of message. It’s a tribute to someone who I consider a dear friend, brother, fellow Aggie, professional colleague, co-author, co-conspirator, golfing buddy, mutual Eagles fan (music not football), fellow follower of Jesus Christ, and the most enigmatic human being I have ever known. His name is Roger C. Ferguson.
- [Beyond the Bottom Line: The Human Touch in Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/beyond-the-bottom-line-the-human-touch-in-leadership/): In the relentless pursuit of productivity and profitability, many leaders find themselves deeply entrenched in operational details. While these metrics are undeniably important, they often overshadow a far more critical aspect of leadership: the cultivation of strong, personal relationships with team members. It's a paradox of modern business that the very people who drive success
- [Leaders: The Architects of Human Potential](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-the-architects-of-human-potential/): A leader is only as strong as the team behind them. This adage has never rung truer than in today's complex and rapidly changing business landscape. In a world characterized by ambiguity, uncertainty, volatility, and complexity (often referred to as VUCA), the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop others is no longer a luxury but
- [Seen It, Done It, Mastered It: A New Approach to Performance Evaluation](https://dougthorpe.com/seen-it-done-it-mastered-it-a-new-approach-to-performance-evaluation/): Traditional performance reviews often feel like a dreaded annual ritual filled with vague expectations, subjective assessments, and little actionable feedback. To enhance employee growth and organizational success, we need a more concrete, transparent, and developmental approach. Enter the "Seen It, Done It, Mastered It" framework. Understanding the Framework The "Seen It, Done It, Mastered It"
- [MOCA: The Cornerstone of High-Performing Teams](https://dougthorpe.com/moca-the-cornerstone-of-high-performing-teams/): In today's fast-paced and complex business environment, aligning a team towards a common goal is crucial for success. The acronym MOCA - Motivation, Opportunity, Clarity, and Ability - provides a powerful framework for achieving this alignment. By focusing on these four key elements, organizations can foster a high-performing culture where employees are engaged, empowered, and
- [Beyond the Buzzword: Building Real Resilience in Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/beyond-the-buzzword-building-real-resilience-in-leadership/): Resilience. It's a term tossed around like a corporate beanbag these days, a leadership quality on every hiring manager's wishlist. But what does it truly mean? The Resilience Matrix: It's Not Just Bouncing Back The resilience matrix we introduce here is a powerful tool for understanding the leadership qualities needed to thrive in today's dynamic
- [A Requiem for the U.S. - Do We Even Know What We're Doing Anymore?](https://dougthorpe.com/a-requiem-for-the-u-s-do-we-even-know-what-were-doing-anymore/): I’ve taken to my computer less than 24 hours after the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. My heart is conflicted. On one hand, I am ever grateful for the near miss that spared Trump’s life. No one attempting to serve the public should be a target for cowardly deeds such as this. The shooter’s motive
- [The Vigilant Leader: Staying Ahead of the Curve in a Shifting Landscape](https://dougthorpe.com/the-vigilant-leader-staying-ahead-of-the-curve-in-a-shifting-landscape/): The business world is a dynamic ecosystem. Trends, technologies, and customer needs can morph overnight, leaving unprepared leaders scrambling to catch up. As a leader, staying abreast of changes within and outside your organization is not just a box to tick; it's the cornerstone of sustainable success. This blog post dives into the essential strategies
- [Building a Leadership Roadmap for Your Business Acquisition Journey](https://dougthorpe.com/building-a-leadership-roadmap-for-your-business-acquisition-journey/): Introduction:In the realm of business acquisition, having a clear leadership roadmap can make all the difference between a successful transition and potential challenges. As you embark on this transformative journey of acquiring a business, honing your leadership skills and strategy becomes paramount. This blog post aims to guide you through building a robust leadership roadmap
- [Leading with Empathy: Unlocking Your Team's Zone of Genius](https://dougthorpe.com/leading-with-empathy-unlocking-your-teams-zone-of-genius/): Empathy – it's a leadership buzzword thrown around a lot. But what does it truly mean to lead with empathy? Sure, it involves understanding emotions and perspectives. But great leaders take it a step further: they see the potential within their team members. They understand that empathy includes finding each person's "zone of genius." The
- [Forge Your Own Path: The Power of Defining Your Leadership Style](https://dougthorpe.com/forge-your-own-path-the-power-of-defining-your-leadership-style/): Leadership. It's a word tossed around with reverence, a mantle bestowed upon those who inspire and guide. But what truly defines a great leader? Is it a pre-defined set of traits, a one-size-fits-all mold we must squeeze into? Absolutely not. The power and impact of leadership lie in the audacity to forge your own path,
- [Building Trust and Relationships: Key Leadership Strategies Beyond Process and Content](https://dougthorpe.com/building-trust-and-relationships-key-leadership-strategies-beyond-process-and-content/): In the dynamic world of business, effective leadership extends far beyond the mastery of processes and the dissemination of content. While these elements are undoubtedly important, they fall short when addressing the nuanced and complex nature of people problems. Leaders who rely too heavily on structured procedures or informational content often find themselves struggling to
- [The Patchwork Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/the-patchwork-leader/): How We Stitch Together Our Management Style We all enter leadership roles with a mental toolbox. Inside, a jumble of experiences, observations, and influences - a patchwork quilt of ideas, behaviors, and values. Some threads come from mentors we admire, others from bosses we swore to never emulate. This post delves into how our leadership
- [Celebrating Father’s Day: The Intersection of Parenthood and Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/fathers-day-2/): Father’s Day offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the often-overlooked parallels between parenthood and leadership. As we honor fathers, it's essential to recognize that the skills required to be an effective parent are remarkably similar to those needed to excel in leadership roles. Both arenas demand patience, guidance, and the ability to inspire and
- [Dads: The Unsung Heroes Shaping Our Future](https://dougthorpe.com/dads-the-unsung-heroes-shaping-our-future/): Father's Day is a time to celebrate the amazing men who guide us through life. But dads aren't just grill masters and joke tellers; they're leaders who play a crucial role in shaping the future, one child at a time. Building Strong Foundations: Setting Standards and Values Dads are often the first to introduce children
- [Leaders Getting It Right](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-getting-it-right/): Over the last couple of months, I've had the pleasure of watching a manager guide his team through a very successful series of events and opportunities. The way he has mastered the leadership of his interesting group has just been amazing to me. I've watched them overcome great obstacles, some uncertainty, and definite challenges to
- [Memorial Day 2024](https://dougthorpe.com/memorial-day-2024/): More Than Hot Dogs and Cookouts: Honoring Our Fallen This Memorial Day As the scent of barbecue fills the air and summer vacations beckon, it's important to remember the true meaning of Memorial Day. It's not just the unofficial start of summer, it's a solemn day dedicated to remembering the brave men and women of
- [Best Practices for Building High-Performing Teams in 2024](https://dougthorpe.com/best-practices-for-building-high-performing-teams-in-2024/): “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much” - Helen Keller Together, a team can attain new heights of success, the emphasis being on ‘together’ or collaborative efforts. For a team to thrive and shine, the leader needs to master the art of team dynamics. To excel in the dynamic business
- [Are You Leading on Purpose?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-leading-on-purpose/): Managers, leaders, and business owners come to work everyday with a wide variety of mindsets.
- [Do you make this work-life balance mistake?](https://dougthorpe.com/do-you-make-this-work-life-balance-mistake/): You create a kind of compartment thinking. Here are some of the symptoms of this thinking
- [Management 101: Person vs Program](https://dougthorpe.com/management-101-person-vs-program/): Looking for how to become a better manager? There are hundreds, maybe thousands, of books on the subject.
- [I Hate Millennials](https://dougthorpe.com/i-hate-millennials/): No, I don't hate the young folks classed as Millennials. I love them! I hate the term 'millennial'.
- [Management Vs Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/management-vs-leadership-job-vs-lifestyle/): Management vs Leadership: Individuals who have been selected to manage a team are often faced with the most basic challenge.
- [Leadership Lift: One View Isn't Enough](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-lift-one-view-isnt-enough/): Decision making is a central requirement for being a leader.
- [Managing Performance: Inspect What You Expect](https://dougthorpe.com/managing-performance-inspect-what-you-expect/): Supervisors and managers can use the monthly reporting cycle to review performance and accomplishments with each employee.
- [7 Cures for Managers Flying Without a Net](https://dougthorpe.com/7-cures-for-managers-flying-without-a-net/): Young managers, working their way up the corporate ladder often find themselves alone. As the demands of the job increase, the support systems stay static.
- [Managing "Up" the Organization](https://dougthorpe.com/managing-up-the-organization/): Managing up the organization is a great catch phrase. It gives comfort to those who feel their boss is less than a good one.
- [Are You Managing Your World or is Your World Managing You?](https://dougthorpe.com/managing-your-world-2/): We all suffer the daily grind. Some days are better than others. For anyone in management or leadership, you need to take a pause to make some critical assessments. I like to call it recalibration. This is a key leadership quality. Let’s face it, the demands on your time and your life can get overwhelming.
- [London Marathon 2013](https://dougthorpe.com/london-marathon-2013/): Today was very surreal. We are in London on the same day as the running of the 2013 London Marathon. If you have followed the news this past week, you are keenly aware of the horrific tragedy of the bombing at the finish line of the Boston Marathon on Monday, 4/15. Today, the entire city
- [Have Zombies Attacked Your Organization?](https://dougthorpe.com/have-zombies-attacked-your-organization/): Does it feel like zombies have attacked your organization? Is there a population of walking dead holding you back and causing poor performance? For quite some time, I have advocated and observed that among most work teams with any size, there will be a distribution of talent that looks something like this: Top 20% performers
- [Inspirational Leadership Versus Management](https://dougthorpe.com/inspirational-leadership-versus-management/): INspirationla leadership
- [Making the Big Leap from Manager to Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/making-the-big-leap-from-manager-to-leader/): For some time now I have been presenting various messages to help new, first time managers make a successful move into the role of management.
- [The Surf is Up Before the Tsunami](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-growth-in-companies/): Business success
- [The Surf is Up Before the Tsunami v2.0](https://dougthorpe.com/the-surf-is-up-before-the-tsunami-v2-0/): There is an old Beach Boys song with this lyric. "The surf is up before the tsunami." It makes me think of a phenomenon I have seen time and again in business. After almost 20 years in commercial banking, I saw a lot of highs and lows with my business customers. Companies on a
- [Get Your Leadershift in Gear](https://dougthorpe.com/get-your-leadershift-in-gear/): Leadership means different things to different people. Not all managers are good leaders, but good leaders usually manage well too.
- [Employers must know your real value](https://dougthorpe.com/employers-must-know-your-real-value/): How to show value
- [S1-Part 2 Making the Job Stick "Big Five Performance Management"](https://dougthorpe.com/big-five-performance-management/): Revamping employee assessments
- [Don't Swallow the Crunchy Stuff](https://dougthorpe.com/find-ways-to-diffuse-confrontation/): Some quick thoughts for handling bad interactions
- [Not My Circus; Not My Monkeys](https://dougthorpe.com/not-my-circus-not-my-monkeys/): Every day we face choices that can totally consume us. But many of those may need to be rejected.
- [Black Leather in a Brown Shoe World](https://dougthorpe.com/black-leather-in-a-brown-shoe-world/): Enlightened leaders keep this willingness to change their management style as a constant attribute.
- [When Others Are Making the Assessment](https://dougthorpe.com/when-others-are-making-the-assessment/): What would your story look like if you went away, permanently?
- [Search for Significance, Part I](https://dougthorpe.com/search-for-significance-part-i/): Business professionals have their own unique set of drivers that make them tick. Motivation, inspiration, and energy come from something.
- [Here's to a New Wave of Business Managers and Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/new-wave-of-business-managers-and-leaders/): Aspiring new managers. Smart, younger leaders who have been put on the front line for the first time.
- [The Three C's for Effective Management](https://dougthorpe.com/1444-2/): If you have been promoted into a management role for the first time, I believe there are three C's to master. Competency, credibility, and confidence.
- [Making the Tough Calls](https://dougthorpe.com/making-the-tough-calls/): There is no avoiding the inevitable moment when it becomes apparent that someone on your team will no longer fit. You have to make the tough call.
- [Search for Significance; Part II](https://dougthorpe.com/search-for-significance-part-ii/): The collection of past experience builds up so severely the person cannot see past those fails.
- [Search for Significance; Part III](https://dougthorpe.com/search-significance-part-iii/): Take a careful look at your decision process for creating a response to a situation
- [Reflections on Work-Life-Faith Balance](https://dougthorpe.com/reflections-on-work-life-faith-balance/): Finding balance with work-life-faith
- [Season One, The Pilot - Work-Life Balance](https://dougthorpe.com/season-one-the-pilot-work-life-balance/): Discussion about work-life balance; what is balance anyway?
- [When Work-Life Balance Needs Adjusting, Bad News Can Be Good News](https://dougthorpe.com/when-work-life-balance-needs-adjusting-bad-news-can-be-good-news/): Finding ways to check whether your work-life balance needs adjusting
- [Do You Work with Toxic People?](https://dougthorpe.com/233/): A long-time associate, Marsha Petrie Sue, has made a professional speaking career talking about “toxic people”. I love that term.
- ["You are NOT Your Job!"](https://dougthorpe.com/you-are-not-your-job/): If you've followed my blog at all, you know what I am doing is not JUST about job search and career coaching. NO! Better balance between work, life, and faith.
- [What do you do when the Tank runs low?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-do-you-do-when-the-tank-runs-low/): How do you know when you need to refuel as life goes on?
- [With Toxic People, Silence is Golden, but Duct Tape is Silver!](https://dougthorpe.com/with-toxic-people-silence-is-golden-but-duct-tape-is-silver/): This title was borrowed from my good friend Marsha Petrie Sue, author of “Decontaminate Toxic People: without using weapons or duct tape”.
- [Do people still need help with LinkedIn?](https://dougthorpe.com/do-people-still-need-help-with-linkedin/): Based on what I’ve been able to develop, I have all of the answers to so many of these questions. These principles still work!
- [LinkedIn Unveils the Next Wave:](https://dougthorpe.com/linkedin-unveils-the-next-wave/): The first list in the series focuses on the LinkedIn Next Wave, which spotlights the top 150 professionals across 15 industries
- [Is There Really Constructive Criticism?](https://dougthorpe.com/is-there-really-constructive-criticism/): Was it possible that in this day of new ideas for leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal growth we did not need this kind of criticism anymore?
- [Why Do I feel the Burnout?](https://dougthorpe.com/why-do-i-feel-burned-out/): Business leaders must learn to recognize their own burnout and be able to administer self-healing for it.
- [A Little Change Makes a Big Difference](https://dougthorpe.com/a-little-change/): Change comes in many forms. Sometimes it comes when we least expect it and then later becomes the “AH HA” moment.
- [Move with a Purpose](https://dougthorpe.com/move-with-a-purpose/): Moving with a purpose was a way to keep from getting tagged for ‘extra’ duty. But it became a mantra.
- [Finding Purpose in this Life](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-purpose-in-this-life/): It all started with “what do you want to be when you grow up?” Then dreams and hopes morph into some kind of reality.
- [Is it Already Time for 2016?](https://dougthorpe.com/is-it-already-time-for-2016/): The most successful people I know use planning in each business season to plot their course. Why shouldn't you and I do that too?
- [Goal Setting - Moving the Chains](https://dougthorpe.com/goal-setting-moving-the-chains/): Goal setting - There is one analogy I can never get past when I think about making progress toward a goal. That phrase is “move the chains”.
- [Can You Ever Have Too Much Quality?](https://dougthorpe.com/can-ever-much-quality/): What can you do to maintain the relationship in a way that keeps the contact alive in your world.
- [Growing Your Business, Growing Yourself](https://dougthorpe.com/1399-2/): As business owners, we are always looking for ways to grow our revenue, grow our client base, and grow our business as a whole.
- [Do You Know an Innovation Consultant?](https://dougthorpe.com/do-you-know-an-innovation-consultant/): A fairly new job title and career specialty has emerged in the past several years. The role is called Innovation Consultant.
- [It's My Job....Really?](https://dougthorpe.com/its-my-job-really/): I love a good song ballad. Jimmy Buffett is one of the best story tellers in his songs. Oh sure, there are many pieces in his work that are just silly, but then there are jewels that slide by if you are not paying attention. This one caught my ear. Jimmy takes a very important
- [Is One the Loneliest Number?](https://dougthorpe.com/is-one-the-loneliest-number/): Launching a new business idea can be tough. So can being given a new leadership role as a supervisor or manager for the first time.
- [Top 10 Epic Fails on Your LinkedIn Profile](https://dougthorpe.com/top-10-epic-fails-on-your-linkedin-profile/): To my Tribe.... I am so excited to announce that I have just finished preparing a big bonus for you. If you rely on LinkedIn to boost your professional brand in the marketplace, you need to get this Bonus. For all the years I have been coaching busy professionals, there is one area where a
- [Management 101 - People Can Be a Pain](https://dougthorpe.com/management-101-people-can-be-a-pain/): Managing people is hard. If you are committed to being a 'good boss', you spend a lot of time trying to think of ways to better approach to leadership.
- [Leaders: Having Haters Hate](https://dougthorpe.com/5282-2/): The life of a manager/business leader certainly has its benefits, but there are downsides to being a leader too. Not long ago, I received an email from someone who had served on a large project with me. Their recall of my role was, let's say, less than flattering. The project was a large one. We started
- [Attention First Time Leaders!](https://dougthorpe.com/attention-first-time-leaders/): There will likely never be another moment in your career to match the day you take on your first leadership challenge.
- [Don't Sabatoge Your First 100 Days](https://dougthorpe.com/dont-sabatoge-your-first-100-days/): For anyone who is now working in their first-ever management role, you know things can be tough. No doubt you have already made a few mistakes.
- [6 Great Questions to Lead Your Team](https://dougthorpe.com/6-great-questions-to-lead-your-team/): Being a leader requires the ability to build rapport with your team. Those following you must have good reason to do so.
- [Why Being the Office BFF Doesn't Work - And What to Do About It](https://dougthorpe.com/why-being-the-office-bff-doesnt-work-and-what-to-do-about-it/): New managers often struggle with old relationships at work. I was doing a consulting assignment at a large international engineering firm. I was leading a group of first time managers through a Manager's 101 program (not the name of it, but you get the idea). This organization is full of very highly educated technical people; engineers,
- [5 Strategies to Make Employees More Productive and Engaged](https://dougthorpe.com/5-strategies-to-make-employees-more-productive-and-engaged/): This is a recent post by a good friend and fellow coach, Mike Lejeune. Mike is a senior HR professional who has coached and mentored hundreds of key officers across a wide variety of industries. He hosts his own blog called "Simple Leadership". Here is his post. On most Fridays, Tommie, my wife, and I
- [If the Big Boss is Not Giving You Respect Then You May Need to Make It Happen](https://dougthorpe.com/big-boss-not-giving-respect-may-need-make-happen/): I was a junior officer of the bank, managing a small operating unit. While in a meeting one day with a group of fairly senior managers
- [The Biggest Struggle Managing People](https://dougthorpe.com/the-biggest-struggle-managing-people/): Recently I was asked this question: What has been your biggest struggle managing people and how did you over come it?
- [What to do When Your Excitement Dies](https://dougthorpe.com/what-to-do-when-your-excitement-dies/): As managers, we need to keep alive the excitement about what our team is doing.
- [New Managers - What is the Pinball Effect?](https://dougthorpe.com/new-managers-what-is-the-pinball-effect/): New managers often find themselves being bounced between people, events, actions or controversy. Do this enough and you will feel like the proverbial silver ball in one of the old pinball arcade games. If this happens to you, being named the Pinball Wizard will not be flattering. Oh sure, keeping the steel ball in play was
- [Management and Popularity](https://dougthorpe.com/management-and-popularity/): Taking on management duties - Placing yourself on the firing line as a manager is not for the faint of heart.
- [If You Need to Find Better Work-Life Balance, Then be Present in the Moment](https://dougthorpe.com/if-you-need-to-find-better-work-life-balance-then-be-present-in-the-moment/): In my tribe of young professional managers, people in their 30's, I am often asked to offer suggestions for one key thing they can change.
- [4 Dirty Psychological Tricks Bad Leaders Use](https://dougthorpe.com/4-dirty-psychological-tricks-bad-leaders-use/): Whether they realize it or not, political, professional, and community leaders often use psychology to influence and control their followers.
- [Leadership: Is Humor the Secret Sauce?](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-is-humor-the-secret-sauce/): it was found that outstanding executives use humor more than twice as often as the so-called average executives
- [New Managers - Begin with the End in Mind](https://dougthorpe.com/new-managers-begin-with-the-end-in-mind/): Endings are hard. Having a good, successful ending may be much harder than most people think.
- [Throwback Thursday](https://dougthorpe.com/throwback-thursday/): Today we celebrate a Throwback Thursday. Here's an article that first appeared last November. Begin with the end in mind. This is one of the wisest teachings I have heard in a long time. Anyone who has been appointed as a new manager should be thinking about this vital aspect of the new role they
- [Is Common Sense an Uncommon Commodity?](https://dougthorpe.com/first-time-managers-vs-common-sense/): the idea of relying on common sense to learn how to become a good manager is not too bad.
- [Be a Better Boss | Add Recognition to the Mix](https://dougthorpe.com/add-recognition-to-the-mix/): In a recent article featured in the Harvard Business Review, recognition was identified as one of the easiest things you can do to be considered a great boss.
- [9 Steps to Becoming a Better Manager](https://dougthorpe.com/9-steps-to-becoming-a-better-manager/): In most businesses, managers acquire their titles and supervisory responsibilities in the absence of any formal training—or any natural leadership skills.
- [Money Matters: How Much is Enough?](https://dougthorpe.com/how-much-is-enough/): From my many years as a community banker, I learned something very interesting about money. Every person has a different view about “how much is enough”.
- [Managers: Are you Thankful?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-thankful/): So today is the holiday known as Thanksgiving in the U.S. Tradition has families gathering at dinner tables all over the country.
- [Power Trippin'](https://dougthorpe.com/power-trippin/): As managers we all face the challenge of recognizing the power that comes with our position.
- [Finding Slack for Better Work-Life Balance](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-slack-for-better-work-life-balance/): I like this concept of creating slack in our busy lives. No one can run at full tension all of the time.
- [Managers Making the Move; Reins vs Reigns](https://dougthorpe.com/managers-making-the-move/): When someone gets promoted it is called “taking the reins” as in taking over control of the horse. It's an old saying, but an accurate word picture.
- [Four Stages of Effective Communication for Managers](https://dougthorpe.com/four-stages-of-effective-communication/): Managers face a constant struggle to improve communication within their work teams.
- [Top 5 Ways to Be Positive](https://dougthorpe.com/top-5-ways-to-be-positive/): You need to avoid the negative forces out there - the negative gravity and information that will seek to keep you down.
- [Trouble Staying Positive?](https://dougthorpe.com/trouble-staying-positive/): There is an incredible amount of negativity and other forces out there that will destroy you and your dreams if you let them in.
- [The Greatest of Expectations](https://dougthorpe.com/greatest-expectations/): We all live lives of expectations. We usually make the final decision based on some kind of expectation.
- [Leadership Gift Giving](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-gift-giving/): This is the time of year when many people think about gift giving. Whether you celebrate Christmas or simply year end, gift giving is factored into the equation. As I reflect on the phenomenon of giving gifts, I am struck with several key aspects of why one gives a gift. First and foremost, people give
- [It's Hard to Write About Christmas](https://dougthorpe.com/6558-2/): Merry Christmas! This year, Christmas Day falls on my usual blog post publishing day. I have to tell you as a writer, I always struggle to craft a Christmas message. First, I think I know my audience. I am keenly aware that many of you do not acknowledge Christmas nor celebrate it because of its
- [Managers: Top 10 Things Happening in Gap Week](https://dougthorpe.com/top-10-things-happening-gap-week/): I encourage you to think thru your goals, visions, and even your dreams for 2016 if you have not already done so.
- [A Holiday Leadership Bonus: Using Grace to Enhance Your Influence with Others](https://dougthorpe.com/1693-2/): I love the idea of coaching and teaching about applying grace in the business world.
- [Can I develop leadership qualities and skills through books and practice?](https://dougthorpe.com/can-i-develop-leadership-qualities-and-skills-through-books-and-practice/): Books are a great place to start. Books can help increase the leadership growth process. It can also “lift your leadership lid”
- [Managers: 5 Key Questions About Grace](https://dougthorpe.com/managers-5-key-questions-grace/): 2020 has been a dumpster fire. Pandemic, economic trials, election battles, remote working, killer hornets, hurricanes, and mandated lockouts. What else can go wrong, right? And it's hard to believe we're poised to launch into 2021 just a few short weeks away. Can you say "Yippee"! With year-end upon us and a new year
- [4 Questions for 2016](https://dougthorpe.com/4-questions-for-2016/): these questions can be very pivotal in setting the stage for looking ahead
- [10 Things You May Not Know About Procrastination](https://dougthorpe.com/10-things-you-may-not-know-about-procrastination/): Procrastination in large part reflects our perennial struggle with self-control as well as our inability to accurately predict how we'll feel tomorrow, or the next day.
- [10 Things You May Not Know About Procrastination](https://dougthorpe.com/5220-2/): Yes, PROCRASTINATION. We all deal with it at some time or another. Have you noticed that the degree of procrastination often is directly proportional to the size of the task? Well, it is for me. So there I was, inside of 12 hours before press deadline. Normally, I am well ahead of these articles by
- [How Do I Find Personal Growth?](https://dougthorpe.com/failure-vs-failing-growing/): Every year, people spend a lot of time and money learning how to work their goals; setting goals, making goals stick, and achieving goals. What about setting your sights on growth?
- [Do YOU have a Career "Plan B" Ready?](https://dougthorpe.com/1415-2/): Being a coach for business managers and leaders often gets me into discussions about career transition.
- [Why Leadership Can Be So Darn Hard](https://dougthorpe.com/whay-is-maslow-still-alive/): The modern worker is a complex blend of knowledge, skill, motivation, and circumstance. Leaders face a daunting challenge to create a workplace that can thrive.
- [Do You Have a Side Hustle?](https://dougthorpe.com/sidehustle/): A new term has been coined that describes a very common activity among professionals and workers in all walks of life. The term is “side hustle”.
- [Navigating the 3C’s of Leadership for the Millennial](https://dougthorpe.com/navigating-the-3cs-of-leadership-for-the-millennial/): While there are many great qualities a leader may possess, I believe there are three leadership skills young leaders should consider.
- [Entrepreneurial Leadership: Making the Team Tick](https://dougthorpe.com/making-the-team-tick/): Building a strong team of leaders is vital for any entrepreneurial effort to get off the ground and rise to new heights.
- [Open Letter to First Time Entrepreneurs](https://dougthorpe.com/open-letter-to-entrepreneurs/): This message is for the true entrepreneurs, who are trying to start a new business or who have been floundering for a few months in a business you started.
- [Want to Own Your Own Business? You Need These Essential Entrepreneurial Traits](https://dougthorpe.com/want-to-own-your-own-business-you-need-these-essential-entrepreneurial-traits/): Successful entrepreneurs are born that way, or so some say. I disagree. In fact, anyone can be a successful entrepreneur.
- [How to Get the Most Out of Confrontation](https://dougthorpe.com/confrontation/): Here is some surprising news about the benefits that confrontation can bring when approached in the right spirit, with the right motivation.
- [Confrontation - Turning the Tables](https://dougthorpe.com/1333-2/): Now it's time to talk about your response or reaction if you are the recipient.
- [Want To Be A Hero?](https://dougthorpe.com/visiting-mentor-1/): I am excited to announce a new series of guest bloggers joining me from time to time to share their views of management and leadership.
- [Here's a Proven 6 Step Way to Manage a Career Change](https://dougthorpe.com/strive/): Making a successful career change can be as easy as following six critical steps. I call it STRIVE. Over 4,500 of my professional clients have used this model for their own job search success. It has been presented in numerous workshops and forums. In the next few pages, you will be guided through these
- [Does Business Have You Chasing Your Tail?](https://dougthorpe.com/chasing-your-tail-2/): Ever watch a cat or dog chase their tail? To be sure, it is quite humorous.
- [Hey Guys - Stop Chasing Your Tail !!!!!!!](https://dougthorpe.com/hey-guys-stop-chasing-your-tail/): Ever watch a cat or dog chase their tail? To be sure, it is quite humorous. The real question is when was the last time someone watched you chasing your tail? As I reflect on various chapters of my life I know I was chasing my tail. I also hear friends and colleagues share various
- [Making S*#^ Up or Getting S*#^ Done](https://dougthorpe.com/making-s-getting-s-done/): Young, first time managers may be easily tempted to make stuff up versus get stuff done.
- [Leaders: What Do You Do With Your Bridges?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-what-do-you-do-with-your-bridges/): In business and in life, our relationships require some bridging.
- [Why We Need Natural Recovery to Endure Stress](https://dougthorpe.com/why-we-need-natural-recovery-to-endure-stress/): Stress is a regular part of everyday life. Taking a page from my fitness coach, let's talk about stress factors that we, as managers and leaders, can undergo.
- [How Do You Look at Opportunity?](https://dougthorpe.com/1427-2/): The decision to entertain the prospect of a new opportunity can be difficult. You may react to opportunities in one of three ways; abhor, ignore or explore.
- [The Permanent Reminder of a Temporary Feeling](https://dougthorpe.com/the-permanent-reminder-of-a-temporary-feeling/): Managers at all levels are on a stage. You stand alone and open for everyone to see.
- [Influence: Do You Give or Receive?](https://dougthorpe.com/test/): Influence. What does that word mean to you? Is it something you are seeking? Is it something others do to you?
- [Managers: Why You Should Re-Calibrate](https://dougthorpe.com/1522-2/): In today's business world, everyone is trying to be someone or something. Has your role in management become the very thing that has taken you off course?
- [Finding Balance When You Get Knocked Off Course](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-balance-when-you-get-knocked-off-course/): The effort to maintain a steady balance between work, life, and faith is a fragile thing.
- [Exploring the Virtues of Preparation](https://dougthorpe.com/exploring-virtues-preparation/): I am routinely amazed at how many fairly accomplished business managers and entrepreneurs fail to prepare every day.
- [Three Simple Truths About Growth](https://dougthorpe.com/three-simple-truths-growth/): Life has its way of happening right before our eyes. If you are not careful, the busyness of life erodes the good stuff from around us.
- [I'm OK, You're OK: An Argument for Change](https://dougthorpe.com/im-ok-youre-ok-simple-argument-change/): So how do you know if you need to make some changes in your life?
- [5 Ways to Truly Renew Your Mind](https://dougthorpe.com/5-ways-to-truly-renew-your-mind/): Every year about this time, people start thinking about new year resolutions. Researchers tell us that the same three to five ideas surface as the most common; lose weight, save money, get more exercise, read more, and make new friends.
- [Does Your Story Have a Punchline?](https://dougthorpe.com/does-your-story-have-a-punchline-2/): One of the most difficult challenges for business professionals, entrepreneurs, and new managers is being able to tell their own story.
- [Want to Improve Your Management Style?](https://dougthorpe.com/why-not-share-why/): As a young manager, it is easy to forget about telling your team why things could or should be done.
- [GDPR and Your Privacy](https://dougthorpe.com/gdpr-and-your-privacy/): This is a service announcement, not a regular blog post. If you have opted-in to receive newsletters and email from Doug Thorpe and HeadwayExec, LLC, the data you provide us is kept confidential. Your data is limited to name, email, and sometimes address or phone information. Any credit card data used to buy products or services
- [HERE'S HOW TO GET A FREE COPY OF MY NEW BOOK](https://dougthorpe.com/free-copy-new-book/): It's a little hard to believe, but my new book, The Uncommon Commodity: A Common Sense Guide for New Managers, is almost here.
- [Don't Widen the Plate](https://dougthorpe.com/dont-widen-plate/): if we fail to hold ourselves to a higher standard, a standard of what we know to be right;
- [The Power of Your Mind's Attention and Your Heart's Affection](https://dougthorpe.com/minds-attention-hearts-affection/): If the focus of your effort has 100% of both your mind's attention and your heart's affection, you, my friend, have something very special happening.
- [Leaders Build Stepping Stones](https://dougthorpe.com/stepping-stones/): Do not hold back when a situation comes up where you could be a mentor to a young person. You too can be a stepping stone for someone's greatness.
- [Leadership Playlist Built by Experience](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-playlist-tapestry/): I like a good play list as much as the next guy. Tunes I pay attention to are ones that have grown in my heart and mind over the years.
- [SFT: A Simple Reminder for Leadership Performance](https://dougthorpe.com/sft-simple-reminder-great-coaching/): Dr. David L. Cook is a sports performance coach and business consultant who has made the phrase “SFT” famous.
- [Leadership: It's in the Bag, Part II](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-its-in-the-bag-part-ii/): When coaching an executive or business owner about leadership, there is a word picture that tells so much more than all the other metaphors. That word picture is golf. Those of you might 'hate golf' or don't know much about it, please stay with me. The game of golf is a collection of challenges intentionally designed to test your
- [6 Reasons Change Is So Challenging](https://dougthorpe.com/1758-2/): For most people, it’s not the idea of change itself that is so daunting, but rather the transition phases of the cycle where there is nothing to hold on to.
- [Living a Legacy](https://dougthorpe.com/living-a-legacy/): What does the word legacy mean to you? For some, it means following in the footsteps of your forefathers
- [Leadership Principles: My Elite 8](https://dougthorpe.com/elite-8-leadership-principles/): Principle based leadership is like setting a deep and strong foundation.
- [Elite 8, Part II](https://dougthorpe.com/elite-8-part-ii/): After my blog about my Elite 8 Leadership Principles, I got a call from one of my closest colleagues in the coaching and speaking biz. As close friends can do, he came on very strong about calling my lesson on the Elite 8 “nice, but not reality”. Hmmmm, tell me more I said. He proceeded
- [When Was Your Last Test?](https://dougthorpe.com/when-was-the-last-test-you-passed/): Life gives you tests. My biggest growth experiences have come when I “graduate” to the next level.
- [Start Your Own Blog Today](https://dougthorpe.com/start-blog-today/): There are plenty of reasons seasoned professionals should write their own blog. I've been blogging since 2009 when I founded Jobs Ministry Southwest. Back then, it was a great way to share information with the people using our services. That modest effort has grown into the site you see now with over 30,000 followers and
- [Start Your Own Blog Today](https://dougthorpe.com/start-blog-today-2/): There are plenty of reasons seasoned professionals should write their own blog. I've been blogging since 2009 when I founded Jobs Ministry Southwest.
- [Honoring Memorial Day](https://dougthorpe.com/honoring-memorial-day/): This post is dedicated to the service members everywhere who fight to preserve freedom. In the U.S. we recognize Memorial Day on the last Monday of May.
- [What's Your View of Risk and Reward?](https://dougthorpe.com/whats-your-view-of-risk-and-reward/): During my days in banking, everything was about risk versus reward. Riskier loans were charged higher interest rates. Investments with high risks paid larger dividends. Simple. It wasn't long before the principles of risk versus reward was engraved into my business mindset. It became second nature. Yet after I left banking and began coaching, I realized not everyone
- [How To Increase Your Work Focus](https://dougthorpe.com/increase-work-focus/): Today is Tuesday 8/23. This article has been submitted by one of the followers of this blog. Goals need to be clear and solid. Rather than setting the aim of putting in a certain amount of hours work a day, make yourself a priority list for the whole week. Such a goal cuts down on
- [Disorienting Situations - The Leader's Response](https://dougthorpe.com/disorienting-situations-the-leaders-response/): As someone who works with business leaders in many different sectors, I've paused to reflect on exactly how I feel about the current state of affairs around us. Now, I feel it is important to share the outcome of this reflective pause.
- [Covenant Leadership: A Radical Change of Heart](https://dougthorpe.com/covenant-leadership-radical-change/): Your commitment to a leadership role can take two similar but divergent paths.
- [Open Letter to New Managers](https://dougthorpe.com/open-letter-to-new-managers/): This is an open letter to the many who have taken on roles of leadership at their work.
- [Living With a Community Connection](https://dougthorpe.com/living-with-a-community-connection/): Living in a community takes on many different definitions depending upon your view.
- [Gut-Checking Goals for Mid-Year Course Correction](https://dougthorpe.com/gutcheck-for-mid-year-course-correction/): Course correction - How's it going for 2016 so far? Have you met your goals? Are you tracking to positive results?
- [What is Transition Coaching?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-transition-coaching/): Moving from being the doer on the team, to being the leader of the team is a big leap for most.
- [Leadership Succession Planning at Its Best](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-succession-planning-at-its-best/): In any organization, senior leadership fails if there is no succession plan.
- [Independence Day Has Other Meaning Too](https://dougthorpe.com/independence-day/): When we declare independence, there is a new day dawning.
- [Independence Day](https://dougthorpe.com/independence-day-2/): When we declare independence, there is a new day dawning. Independence implies a freeing from something.
- [Memorial Day 2018](https://dougthorpe.com/memorial-day-2018/): Honoring all who have served and given the ultimate sacrifice.
- [Dealing with the Pain of Uncertainty](https://dougthorpe.com/dealing-with-the-pain-of-uncertainty/): Uncertainty grips us all at some point in our lives. Perhaps it happens multiple times. It comes in many ways.
- [Leaders - Where Are Your People?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-where-are-your-people/): Maslow helps us understand. This question is not a literal one. You see your people daily. Rather it is a figurative idea. If you manage and lead any part of a business, you likely have a team surrounding you. Regardless of them being co-workers, direct reports, peers, or superiors, they are fellow human beings. They
- [Internal Transparency - Five Tips You Can Use Today](https://dougthorpe.com/internal-transparency-five-tips-can-use-today/): In the workplace, internal transparency can help employees feel empowered and engaged.
- [Holding Someone's Interest Versus Getting Their Attention](https://dougthorpe.com/understanding-attention-versus-interest/): Interest is significantly different from attention. Loud noises get our attention, but they may not hold our interest.
- [Management Endurance: Do You Sprint or Do You Pace?](https://dougthorpe.com/management-endurance-do-you-sprint-or-do-you-pace/): Being a manager is a test of endurance. Much like running a marathon, there is a need to pace your effort to make it to the finish.
- [3 Simple Ideas for Better Relationships](https://dougthorpe.com/3-simple-ideas-for-relationships/): A good friend in the banking sector uses a simple mantra for doing business. When he meets a potential lead, he actually shuns the business at first.
- [Overcoming Life's Obstacles](https://dougthorpe.com/overcoming-obstacles/): When you hear about “overcoming obstacles”, the phrase means different things depending upon your own life experiences.
- [Managers! The Problem Is NOT the Problem](https://dougthorpe.com/the-problem-is-not-the-problem/): With problem solving, usually, the problem is not the problem. The problem is the way we are thinking about the problem.
- [How Do YOU Look at Problem Solving?](https://dougthorpe.com/7408-2/): People in management and leadership deal with problems all day long. Plans and projects get started, procedures are written and taught, but things go wrong. You've got a problem. Challenges present themselves in so many forms. People problems, supply problems, customer problems, and so on and so on. A lot of physical and emotional energy
- [Change by Choice or by Chance](https://dougthorpe.com/change-by-choice-or-by-chance/): For managers, change comes by choice and by chance.
- [Why Great Leaders Tell Stories](https://dougthorpe.com/2206-2/): Storytelling at work is recognized as being vital to effective leadership. Great leaders use it very well, while not so great ones struggle.
- [Leadership Powered by Common Sense](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-powered-by-common-sense/): When it comes to leadership, it seems that common sense is truly an uncommon commodity. Common sense is a bit like beauty, as “in the eye of the beholder”.
- [The Only True Leadership Is Values-Based Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/true-leadership-values-based-leadership/): From time to time I find articles that are just too good to try to paraphrase or boil down. This is one such article. Reprinted by permission from Harry M. Jansen Kraemer Jr. My students told me time and again, “You should write a book!” Finally one of them handed me a transcript of my
- [Where and What Holds Your Faith](https://dougthorpe.com/where-and-what-holds-your-faith/): Faith is a delicate subject these days. There is so much debate being derived from the religious extremists' assertions of faith.
- [Harnessing the Power of Your Mind's Attention and Your Heart's Affection](https://dougthorpe.com/harnessing-the-power-of-your-minds-attention-and-your-hearts-affection/): It's a noisy world out there with all the dopamine induced gratification we get from social media.
- [Here's a Powerful Formula for GREAT Success](https://dougthorpe.com/heres-a-powerful-formula-for-great-success/): In the fast-paced world of business, it's easy to lose sight of your most valuable principles. Even the best of leaders get overwhelmed with progress happening at what seems like the speed of light. As I visit with leaders at all levels, I find a need to return to a couple of very basic ideas.
- [Please! Keep Your Pants On](https://dougthorpe.com/please-keep-your-pants-on/): Take the passions you have in your heart and align them with the power of your brain. Or conversely, be sure the capabilities you have for thinking critically and problem solving can be used for the good that may be in your heart.
- [Managers: Visionary vs Dreamer](https://dougthorpe.com/managers-visionary-vs-dreamer/): Business leaders come in many different shapes and sizes, but one thing is common.
- [Leaders: Are You a Happy Pig?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-a-happy-pig-2/): It is about a pig who decides to stop being like all other pigs. He chooses to become happy. It is about a pig who decides to stop being like all other pigs. He chooses to become happy.
- [5 Meditation Tips For Beginners](https://dougthorpe.com/5-meditation-tips-beginners/): Have you considered meditation, but thought it was either too hard or too "out there"? Not so fast.
- [16 Personalities Type Testing](https://dougthorpe.com/16-peronality-type-testing/): If you've followed my blog, you know I have generally come out against most conventional personality type testing. While the results of such testing can be helpful in identifying the behavior tendencies in your work team, I am always cautious about the risk that we, as managers, have for putting people in tidy little boxes.
- [Can I Get Your Attention?](https://dougthorpe.com/can-get-attention/): As leaders, we need to have people's attention before we attempt to communicate a message
- [The Finest Explainer Video Company Knows That Less is More](https://dougthorpe.com/finest-explainer-video-company-knows-less/): In my continuing series of guest posts, this week we look at ways that video can enhance your message. One common approach is to create the "explainer" video where you simply explain a service or program. Here is the article by my guest blogger AgainStudios. Explainer videos or also known as explanatory videos are now
- [Creating a Relaxing Office Environment](https://dougthorpe.com/creating-relaxing-office-environment/): A relaxing office environment allows you to think clearer, be more productive and get more done and here are some tips on how to create one.
- [Here's a Simple Test to Determine Your Career Satisfaction](https://dougthorpe.com/career-satisfaction/): Being satisfied with your current career choice is vital to your own success. Your sense of balance for work, life, and faith can hinge upon the level with which you find your job satisfying.
- [A Talk With the General](https://dougthorpe.com/a-talk-with-the-general/): Our discussion centered on observations about leadership and management, with a special focus on young, aspiring professionals.
- [If Serving is Beneath You, Leadership is Beyond You](https://dougthorpe.com/if-serving-is-beneath-you-leadership-is-beyond-you/): What a quote! “If serving is beneath you, leadership is beyond you.” If you ever struggle with being willing to serve a greater good and another human being, you should reconsider any desire you have to become a manager or a leader. Being in a position of authority has a great responsibility. If you are already in
- [Attention Managers: Perfection is Unachievable](https://dougthorpe.com/perfection-is-unachievable/): There's an old saying. “Perfect is the enemy of good.” Perfectionism is a strong force that accomplishes so little.
- [Making It Real with People, Productivity, and Profitability](https://dougthorpe.com/making-it-real-with-people-productivity-and-profitability/): Executive coaching is a growing business. It is no longer limited to Fortune 500 companies. Entrepreneurs and owners of private businesses of all sizes have turned to coaching for business and personal growth. Back in 2004, the Harvard Business Review reported that executive coaching got started in the 1980s, yet still lacked reliable information for measuring
- [How to Lead, Follow, or Get Out of the Way](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-lead-follow-or-get-out-of-the-way/): It's an old saying you've likely heard before. For anyone who owns a business, this phrase is counsel that may be hard to do.
- [Great Leaders Don't Set Out to Be a Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/great-leaders-dont-set-out-to-be-a-leader/): Seldom does an individual sense the call of leadership at an early age
- [Extending Smartphone Battery Life](https://dougthorpe.com/extending-smartphone-battery-life-tips-myths/): Nothing is more frustrating that watching your phone's battery drain down. If you have to stay plugged in too often, here are a few quick tips and myth busters about your phone's battery life. Tips: Block ads. Website ads drain power. Install an ad blocker. Use ‘Auto-Brightness.’ This dims and brightens power-sucking screens. Disable push
- [Leaders: Making the Best of Change Management](https://dougthorpe.com/making-the-best-of-change-management/): Organizational change management is a systematic diagnosis of the current situation in order to determine both the need for change and capacity to change.
- [Leaders - Stop Solving Everything!](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-stop-solving-everything/): If you have responsibility for a business, a company, or a team, STOP solving everything. Please stop solving everybody's problems. That sounds like a crazy person talking, right? Here's what I mean. It is likely you climbed the business ladder by solving problems. As a sole-contributor on a team, you helped make things happen. Whether
- [The Business Ladder](https://dougthorpe.com/2791-2/): From time to time, people ask me about career potential. This infographic was compiled from U.S. government data. It's a fairly comprehensive story, worth sharing. [button href="http://www.toolshero.com/infographics/climbing-business-ladder/" primary="true" centered="true" newwindow="true"]Read More[/button]
- [The Millennial Mindset Is Nothing New](https://dougthorpe.com/the-millennial-mindset/): As some of you know, I run a contrarian view of the widespread concern for millennials in the workplace. Is their thinking really so new?
- [Still Use a Desktop PC?](https://dougthorpe.com/still-use-a-desktop-pc/): Here are all the reasons why a hacked PC can be a juicy target for hackers. As a bit of public service, I want to share this post. In light of the big hack last week attacking “the Internet of Things”, we are all reminded about the need for better data security. If you think
- [Beating Procrastination at Its Own Game - and Ways to Thrive](https://dougthorpe.com/beating-procrastination-and-ways-to-thrive/): Everyone deals with procrastination sometimes, but 20 percent of people chronically avoid difficult tasks and deliberately look for distractions.
- [Major on the Minors, Minor on the Majors](https://dougthorpe.com/major-minors-minor-majors/): Facing life each day, we all make this mistake. We spend time on the wrong stuff. Priorities get mixed up. Big things get forgotten or set aside while little things get all our attention; both emotional and physical. We major on the minors and minor on the majors. Why do we do this? Mainly because
- [Managers - What Will You Be on Halloween?](https://dougthorpe.com/managers-what-will-you-be-on-halloween/): This evening is Halloween; celebrated in many different ways. Of the many best loved traditions in America, the donning of costumes is at the top of the list. Many, many years ago, in times past, adults began dressing in elaborate costumes for Halloween parties, also known as Masquerade parties, long before it became an annual
- [Finding Good Fit](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-good-fit/): Companies spend a lot of time and money trying to identify “good fit” during their hiring process. Candidate selection is driven by the magical, mystical notion of making a good fit decision. Clearly the first step usually involves matching job description requirements with the candidate's stated background experience. Right away, the matching process starts to
- [What the Cubs' World Series Teaches About Life and Business](https://dougthorpe.com/what-the-cubs-world-series-teaches-about-life-and-business/): We all know by now the Chicago Cubs got to claim the title of World Series Champion. Their path in 2016 to the eventual championship covers all aspects of what is required to achieve success in life and in business.
- [What Is "Slowly, Rarely or Never"?](https://dougthorpe.com/slowly-rarely-or-never/): That's the answer to the question “how do people change?” There are plenty of situations in our lives when people want to talk about change.
- [Veteran's Day 2016](https://dougthorpe.com/veterans-day-2016/): A heartfelt thank you to those who serve and have served.
- [Having Intentions Vs Living Intentionally: What's the Difference?](https://dougthorpe.com/living-intentionally/): There is a big difference between having intentions and living intentionally. Our intentions are our thoughts about what we should and shouldn't be doing.
- [Thanksgiving at Thirty Thousand Feet](https://dougthorpe.com/thanksgiving-at-thirty-thousand-feet/): At thirty thousand feet, so many things seem so clear. The roads that wind across the landscape seem to make perfect connections with each stopping point.
- [Leadership 101: Consensus is Overrated](https://dougthorpe.com/consensus-is-overrated/): There are leadership theories that place a premium on gaining consensus for decisions. Unfortunately, group consensus has a psychology of its own.
- [Professional Growth: The Triple-A Approach to Change Management](https://dougthorpe.com/professional-growth-triple-approach-change-management/): Regardless of the reason for change, managing the change is always a challenge. A dedicated discipline for change management has been adopted.
- [Finding the Edge - Episode #1](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-edge-episode-1/): Most business owners start their own business based on their passion for what it is they do. Unfortunately, it takes much more than passion to build a successful business.
- [Leaders: What is the Right Answer?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-the-right-answer/): It has been said there is one big difference between management and leadership. Management is doing things right. Leadership is doing the right things.
- [Career Advice from the Strangest Source](https://dougthorpe.com/career-advice-from-the-strangest-source/): Executive leaders deal with making career moves multiple times in their life.
- [Attraction: A Leadership Yardstick](https://dougthorpe.com/attraction-a-leadership-yardstick/): If you think of yourself as a leader, the first test is who are you attracting? Leaders attract followers.
- [10 Things Every Entrepreneur And Executive Should Expect From Their Master Leadership Coach](https://dougthorpe.com/10-things-master-leadership-coach/): A lot of people have gone further than they thought they could because someone else thought they could. ~ Zig Ziglar I have long believed in the power of having a coach to develop myself as a leader and entrepreneur so much so that I now serve entrepreneurs, business owners, and executives as their coach.
- [Here's the One Topic Always Missing from Everyone's Top 10 Leadership Lists](https://dougthorpe.com/one-topic-always-missing-from-top10/): Are you curious when you read a headline about leadership "Top 10"? I know I am. There are certainly some great thoughts that get covered in the popular lists of success factors attributed to great leadership. Goodness knows we need good leadership. Yet there is one topic that seldom gets mentioned in any Top 10
- [The Great Leadership Debate: Nature vs Nurture](https://dougthorpe.com/the-great-leadership-debate-nature-vs-nurture/): Visit the best business schools on the planet and you are likely to hear a robust debate about whether great leaders are born or bred; nature versus nurture.
- [Leaders: Are You Coachable?](https://dougthorpe.com/entrepreneurs-are-you-coachable/): In my consulting and coaching business, I often ask the question “are you coachable?” It is amazing how many times the prospect says “well, yes I believe I am.”
- [Leaders 2023: What Holds You Back?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-what-holds-you-back/): It's December. People start shutting down business activities for the holidays or.... They ramp up some last-minute planning and thinking about the new year. Which one are you? If your business has matured (because you, the leader, have made the transition to owner/CEO) CONGRATULATIONS! Likely you had your new year planning started in October, finished
- [Tips for VP/CXO Executives Who Have Never Had to Search for a Position Before](https://dougthorpe.com/tips-vpcxo-executive-search/): Approximately 60 percent of executives I speak with will share with me in our initial conversation that they have always been recruited for positions
- [Wisdom](https://dougthorpe.com/wisdom/)
- [Hitting Bottom Isn't Always Bad](https://dougthorpe.com/hitting-bottom-isnt-always-bad/): How do you handle adversity? Being on top has its own way of humbling you from time to time. Leaders face an ever-present force that can turn in just a moment.
- [Managing in the Maze](https://dougthorpe.com/managing-in-the-maze/): Managers and executives often find themselves giving in to life in the maze. All of the facts and forces around you say “walk the maze”.
- [Right, Wrong, and Different](https://dougthorpe.com/right-wrong-and-different/): The problem with problem solving is that someone always thinks their side is the “right” answer, while the other side is “wrong”.
- [Workforce Planning 101; Measuring Your Talent Pool](https://dougthorpe.com/workforce-planning-101-measuring-your-most-critical-talent/): What if you could map both a personality and a behavior mindset pattern that ties to your top performers?
- [The King of Leadership Fails](https://dougthorpe.com/the-king-of-leadership-fails/): Executives, managers and entrepreneurs fail for many reasons, but there is one undisputed King of Fails; the Boss who cannot recognize the key talent on his/her own team. Littered across the job change landscape are thousands of very sharp and gifted people who were basically ignored by their boss. These disheartened souls choose to find a new
- [Have Zombies Attacked Your Organization? Part II](https://dougthorpe.com/3381-2/): For quite some time, I have advocated and observed that among most work teams with any size, there will be a distribution of talent.
- [Super Bowl Goes Business School](https://dougthorpe.com/super-bowl-goes-business-school/): This year's NFL Super Bowl (American football) was a spectacular case study of principles you should/could learn in the best business schools.
- [Dealing With Toxic People at Work (or in Your Life)](https://dougthorpe.com/dealing-with-toxic-people-at-work-or-in-your-life/): Have you ever had an encounter with someone at work who is just TOXIC? You know, their personality has ways of flippling everyone's switches, pushing all the wrong buttons, and making life miserable for the few minutes you might be together. Hopefully, you don't have to deal with such disruptive personalities like this very often.
- [The Margins in Life](https://dougthorpe.com/the-margins-in-life/): Do you think about margins in life like a business thinks about profit margins?
- [Leadership: Pride Is a Cruel Master](https://dougthorpe.com/pride-is-a-cruel-master/): Dealing with highly successful professionals has shown a wide variety of interesting things about human nature. Perhaps the most significant attribute is PRIDE.
- [Personal Growth: Making It Stick](https://dougthorpe.com/personal-growth-making-it-stick/): We've all been there before; a seminar, a speaker, or a program. WOW what a message!
- [Leadership: Weathering the Storm](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-weathering-the-storm/): The U.S. has been experiencing some storms of epic proportions. Rain, snow, wind, hail, and tornadoes have whipped the country for weeks and months. Property damage in the millions and, sadly, lives have been lost. For anyone in a leadership position, you too will see storms happening from time to time. While waiting on the
- [How Does a Leader Handle NO?](https://dougthorpe.com/how-do-you-handle-no/): When you have an idea, you want to tell someone. When you believe the idea is especially good, you may even be thinking about a new direction. As you share the idea, the common answer is often NO!
- [Leadership: Too Big to Do Right?](https://dougthorpe.com/too-big/): In 2008 we learned the phrase “too big to fail”. Too big to fail begs another question. Is there such a thing as too big to do right?
- [Great Leadership Builds Trust - Here's Why It Matters](https://dougthorpe.com/great-leadership-builds-trust-heres-why-it-matters/): In any relationship, trust is a key element. Without it, things don't last very long. With trust, you can withstand most anything. Managers at every level of an organization must seek first to build a foundation of trust within their circle of influence. The world is craving a new story about leadership and business, one
- [Is Your Project a Self-Eating Watermelon?](https://dougthorpe.com/ever-hear-of-a-self-eating-watermelon/): Definition : A project that contains enough seeds of success right within its own boundaries.
- [Leadership Character v. Perpetrating Fraud](https://dougthorpe.com/perpetrating-fraud/): In the financial services world, fraud is a big deal. I have seen fraud both great and small. When it comes to leadership character, being a fraud is a huge problem.
- [What Is There Beyond Leadership?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-there-beyond-leadership/): Depending on the social circles you find yourself in, the discussions about leadership are maturing. The awareness of the need for strong, capable leaders is abundantly clear. Great books have been written. Theory and practice have grown into reality. Yet, as with anything in our universe, there is always something more. Effective leadership is not
- [Lessons in Leadership: Soaring with the Winds of Life](https://dougthorpe.com/lessons-in-leadership-soaring-with-the-winds-of-life/): In learning how to fly an airplane, one of the first lessons has to do with understanding winds. Winds come in basically three types;
- [Flying With the Lord](https://dougthorpe.com/flying-with-the-lord/): ... we are well prepared. Yet as moments of darkness envelope the journey we have chosen, how often do we find ourselves panicked? Thoughts of fear and doubt shroud our existence. We often think about turning around to some safety we believe is behind us.
- [Leadership: How do you handle feedback?](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-how-do-you-handle-feedback/): The further you get into management and leadership, the farther away you might get from personal feedback. Receiving feedback is not always easy.
- [Stuck Right Now? Here's How to Get 3 Levels Beyond](https://dougthorpe.com/stuck-right-now-heres-get-3-levels-beyond/): Are you feeling stuck. It's like walking in quicksand. You can't make any forward progress. We've all been there before.
- [Do you suffer from Bright Shiny Objects?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-focus/): Bright shiny objects distract us right? Too many leaders suffer from an occasionally bout of BSO Syndrome, chasing bright shiny objects.
- [Helping Rising Stars Shine](https://dougthorpe.com/helping-rising-stars-shine/): Companies must decide between creating and sponsoring a management development program or a leadership development one
- [Leadership: Shining Light v Casting Darkness](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-shining-light-v-casting-darkness/): Despite all of the great teachings about leadership, the effective demonstration of it comes down to two simple realities.
- [Changing Our View of Fatherhood and Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/changing-our-view-of-fatherhood-and-leadership/): As we turn our hearts and minds to fathers everywhere, let's take a look at certain aspects of what it means to father and the leadership influences.
- [Feeling Stuck? Find a Change](https://dougthorpe.com/feeling-stuck-find-a-change/): Ever felt stuck? You know, you feel like you don't know which way to turn. Do the pressures of the situation have you feeling like you cannot make any progress?
- [E-Myth Revisited (for Everyone)](https://dougthorpe.com/e-myth-revisited-for-everyone/): E-Myth...define entrepreneurship and business leadership. As I study those volumes, I find some key essentials that apply to every business executive, owner or aspiring manager.
- [Messages Can Be Lost by the Messenger](https://dougthorpe.com/messages-can-be-lost-by-the-messenger/): Effective executive leadership requires a keen ability to communicate. Some of the best leaders rely upon story telling to convey their message.
- [Leaders: Are You Disturbed?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-are-you-disturbed/): The meeting had been going on for a few minutes, when a junior executive rushed in, late. The boss looked up and glared. The junior said “excuse me, I didn't mean to disturb.”
- [Leaders: Sometimes There Aren't Enough Rocks](https://dougthorpe.com/sometimes-there-arent-enough-rocks/): Wanting to throw a few rocks seems easy. A rock is small but hard. It makes a great projectile when launched with the right velocity. Here's the problem.
- [F-5 Framework for Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/f-5-framework-for-leadership/): For anyone facing a need to improve on leadership style or effectiveness, there are five core principles to master.
- [Consciously or Unconsciously - Live Well](https://dougthorpe.com/consciously-or-unconsciously-live-well/): The following is shared by permission from a dear friend, fellow coach, and down-right classy human being, David Norris. I hope you find this to be of value to you today. David writes: I recently posted this quote on several social media platforms and received a number of requests to translate and explain further. Consciously
- [Leadership 2020 and Beyond](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-2020-and-beyond/): What else is left to say about this year, 2020? Regardless of who you talk to, everyone endured something during the past 10 months. 2020 was going to be such an interesting year. It was the start of a new decade and an easy catch phrase for business planners and institutional thinkers. I can recall
- [Where Do the Other Guys Go?](https://dougthorpe.com/where-do-the-other-guys-go/): Have you ever been to a leadership conference where everyone in the room tries to give you the impression they already know the answers?
- [Leadership Thought: Is Your Myopia Your Utopia?](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-thought-is-your-myopia-your-utopia/): When it comes to leadership and management, nearsightedness or myopia is a common occurrence. What does that mean?
- [Leaders: Is Your Myopia Your Utopia?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-myopia/): Since effective leadership is part art as much as part science, I see too many managers taking a nearsighted look at their role and responsibility.
- [#Entrepreneurs: Finding the Edge](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-the-edge/): I am beginning a series of business coaching messages centered on helping entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners identify and reach out to their "edge".
- [We Interrupt This Blog to Get Real](https://dougthorpe.com/we-interrupt-this-blog-to-get-real/): Starting a business is not for the weak at heart. A big bright idea for a product or service is not enough to create success.
- [Link Your Brand to a Story for Greater Success](https://dougthorpe.com/brand-to-a-story/): Your business provides a great product or service, right? What sets you apart from the next guy? Link your brand with a story.
- [Leading in Life: Survive or Thrive](https://dougthorpe.com/leading-in-life-survive-or-thrive/): The human condition is programmed to survive. That's how we got here. It is not natural to perform at a special level for an extended period of time.
- [Entrepreneurs: Your Business Has Two Black Holes](https://dougthorpe.com/your-business-has-two-black-holes/): Marketing and Customer Service are the two “black holes” of business. Both are critical, but neither is ever complete.
- [Managers: Can You Handle Your Golden Eggs?](https://dougthorpe.com/handling-your-golden-eggs/): If you hire a team of people to work for you, how are you treating them? Are there some golden eggs you might be taking for granted?
- [Finding the Edge - Episode #2](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-edge-episode-2/): Have you ever given any thought as to how your clients make that all important decision as to whether or not they will buy your product or service?
- [What is an Entrepreneur Anyway?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-an-entrepreneur/): I help business owners and executives strengthen their leadership teams, but there is frequent talk about being an Entrepreneur. What is that?
- [10 Rules for High-Performing Teams](https://dougthorpe.com/10-rules-high-performing-teams/): Being a successful leader implies success within the team you influence. While a leader's impact on specific individuals is easier to measure, team dynamics create exponential challenges for leaders.
- [Creating Your Leadership Pledge](https://dougthorpe.com/4340-2/): Ask people what they want from leadership and consistency and clear principles will always be on the list. People want a leader who knows what is important.
- [Entrepreneurship Coaching And Mentoring - Blog And Podcast](https://dougthorpe.com/entrepreneurship-coaching-and-mentoring-blog-and-podcast/): Entrepreneurs make up the vast majority of our world economy. While corporate giants fuel activity in many sectors, it's the grind and grit of dedicated individuals who make the world turn.
- [Leadership: Closing Is Usually Not the Problem](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-nugget-closing-is-usually-not-the-problem/): In the sales world, there is a big focus on closing the deal. By taking a look at this essential part of the sales process, you can learn something about being a better leader.
- [Leadership: Finding a Good Fit](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-finding-good-fit/): Companies spend a lot of time and money during their hiring process. Candidate selection is driven by the magical, mystical notion of making a "good fit" decision.
- [REMEMBERING 9.11](https://dougthorpe.com/remembering-9-11/)
- [Leadership: You need to be YOU](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-you-need-to-be-you/): Trying to become a better leader? Don't be someone else. You need to be YOU.
- [Dealing With Pressure](https://dougthorpe.com/dealing-with-pressure/): Leaders must know how to handle pressure. Pressure is one of those "not if, but when" factors in life. You will face pressure.
- [Leaders: Which Way Do You Shift?](https://dougthorpe.com/which-way-do-you-shift/): In leadership, shift is a simple word, yet it has so many possible meanings. Shift is a motion word. It implies change.
- [Boundarylessness - What Is It?](https://dougthorpe.com/boundarylessness-what-is-it/): Jack Welch, the legendary CEO of GE, had a term he liked to share with his executive team. The word was “Boundarylessness”.
- [Leaders: Are You Equipping Others?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-are-you-equipping-others/): The leader must be able to equip others within the group to grow and prosper. There are different kinds of growth to consider.
- [Important Characteristics Every Entrepreneur Must Have](https://dougthorpe.com/important-characteristics-every-entrepreneur-must-have/): Are you planning to start and run your own business? Do you know the right qualifications and characteristics an entrepreneur must have to succeed? Does your profile match that of a successful entrepreneur? In this article, we will explore and discuss the essential characteristics that every entrepreneur must have. There are several important traits and
- [Finding the Wheelhouse of Passion and Purpose](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-the-wheelhouse-of-passion-and-purpose/): Sometimes you just need to ask the question “am I living my passion?” Too many people get late into life and discover that all those years at work meant very little.
- [Introducing the Entrepreneur Scan](https://dougthorpe.com/entrepreneur-scan/): When owning a business, it is only natural that you try to examine it. The more information you have about something, the more significant your chances of making correct decisions.
- [Leaders - Check Your Older Ways at the Door](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-check-your-older-ways/): A family friend was hosting the rehearsal dinner for their son's wedding. The Dad dutifully stood up during the dinner and began to make his toast to the bride and groom. As is usual at such affairs, there were several generations sitting around the tables. Dad proceeded to speak about the ways that his mother
- [Handling the Entrepreneur's Conundrum](https://dougthorpe.com/handling-the-entrepreneurs-conundrum/): Anyone who has taken the leap and started a business faces challenges almost daily. You are the CEO alright, but it means Chief EVERYTHING Officer when you first start out.
- [Embracing Risk: What is Your Risk Appetite?](https://dougthorpe.com/embracing-risk-what-is-your-risk-apetite/): Leading a business involves risk. For some of us, just getting out of bed each day seems like a risk. For others, they can't get enough of it.
- [MERRY CHRISTMAS!](https://dougthorpe.com/merry-christmas/): My team and I are taking a break to celebrate Christmas. We wish you and yours a very blessed holiday season. PS- This picture is my "WHY". This is my family; kids, grandkids, in-laws, and outlaws. We had some fun this year with an "Ugly Sweater Day".
- [Work-Life Balance Hack (Or Not)](https://dougthorpe.com/work-life-balance-hack-not/): What is a life hack anyway? If you are looking for better ways to do things, then great, you are looking for growth.
- [Making the Most from Working at Home](https://dougthorpe.com/working-at-home/): It turns out not everyone is equipped to work at home. I frequently get asked for tips and tricks on how to make the stay-at-home gig work well.
- [Leadership : #MeToo vs Improving Personal Accountability](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-improving-accountability-vs-metoo/): Personal accountability is a wide and somewhat confusing concept. When it comes to leadership, the best leaders not only embrace personal accountability, but they demand it.
- [Leadership Lessons Learned in the Trenches](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-lessons-learned-in-the-trenches/): The experiences in the field often served to remind me of business leadership principles I learned a long time ago, but have to revisit frequently if I choose to keep them fresh and effective.
- [Calling All Remote Workers](https://dougthorpe.com/calling-all-remote-workers/): Since 2000 there has been a growing trend to let workers do their duties remotely. It grew steadily for a number of years, there is now a reversal happening.
- [Are You Thankful?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-thankful-2/): A time for genuine thanksgiving. regardless of how good or how hard the past year had been. There is always something for which we can give thanks.
- [Being Truly Thankful](https://dougthorpe.com/being-truly-thankful/): In preparing this piece, I looked back at my annual Thanksgiving messages. I was struck by what I thought was simple prose at the time, but turned out to be more prophecy.
- [Leaders: So Much for Good Intentions](https://dougthorpe.com/so-much-for-good-intentions/): For someone in a leadership role, your day to day action speaks far louder than the words you say or the emails you write.
- [Merry Christmas: Are YOU the Gift?](https://dougthorpe.com/merry-christmas-are-you-the-gift/): Today is Christmas, December 25. I'm not really ashamed to admit that I still celebrate Christmas. It has been in my family tradition for many decades.
- [Don't Waste Time Setting New Year's Goals](https://dougthorpe.com/dont-waste-time-setting-new-years-goals/): Depending on where your past year ended, you may or may not be ready to do a goal-setting exercise. I see a couple of options for where you might be standing right now.
- [Do Your Problems Seem Bigger Than Actual Size?](https://dougthorpe.com/problems-seem-bigger/): Do you sometimes make things bigger than they really are? When you face a challenge, can you see it in proper perspective?
- [The Entrepreneur's Need for Nimbleness](https://dougthorpe.com/the-entrepreneurs-need-for-nimbleness/): Being an entrepreneur is not for everyone. Often there is a false assumption that a good product or service idea will be a guaranteed success.
- [Are We Being Big Data Stupid?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-we-big-data-stupid/): The biggest buzzword in Human Resources these days seems to be “Big Data”—the idea that we can now gather so much complex information about our workforce processes and can churn that data into a meaningful analysis that will help us better manage our business. Like our federal government, however, we in HR can sometimes be
- [Feel Like an Entrepreneur?](https://dougthorpe.com/feel-like-an-entrepreneur/): Two business owners were talking. One was having a pretty good run with his new, and growing business. The other had suffered a series of bad turns and hard luck. The one with the better business asked, "So now do you feel like an entrepreneur?" The other answered "Heck no. I feel like a pile
- [How to Identify the Blind Spot in Your Personality](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-identify-blind-spots-in-your-personality/): Have you ever been driving and decided to change lanes? You take a quick look around and all seems clear, then you make the move to the new lane and HONK! You're about to cut into an oncoming car. A blind spot covered your view of the other car. Leaders can have blind spots too.
- [Leaders Modeling the Way](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-modeling-way/): Any entrepreneur, business owner, or executive who wonders why the team is not operating as you expect should take a couple of critical steps. Get out from behind the desk and take the steps to walk to the mirror. Take a long, hard look. Are YOU modeling the way for others to follow? Your actions
- [BUSINESS LEADERSHIP - 5 STEPS TO HELP YOU DELEGATE AND ELEVATE](https://dougthorpe.com/business-leadership-5-steps-help-delegate-elevate/): Is your time getting away from you? What would it look like if you only worked the hours you want to, but got everything done? Can you effectively delegate? One of the surest ways to break through the ceiling and get to where you want to go is to delegate and elevate yourself to your God-given unique
- [Just Ask for It](https://dougthorpe.com/just-ask-for-it/): Why do we agonize over things we want? I'm talking about those situations where there seems to be an opportunity, but we freeze before acting. We've all been in those situations; ones that require a simple ask. That new opportunity, that raise, that account, that job order. It's right there, but we stop short of
- [Measuring the Milestones of Life](https://dougthorpe.com/measuring-milestones-life/): Have you ever stopped to think what the milestones in your life are telling you? Or do you even keep track of those moments? We all have decisions, outcomes, and experiences that shape and mold the person we become. Some call these defining moments. Taking a look at the list of the key moments can be very
- [Management is Not for Everyone](https://dougthorpe.com/management-not-everyone/): What's the big deal with becoming a Manager? Why do some try to do that? And why do companies promote people who end up being terrible managers and lousy bosses? More importantly, if you are one of the people being put into management, what can you do to make it a success? Being in management
- [Here's the View from My Seat on the Bus](https://dougthorpe.com/heres-the-view-from-my-seat-on-the-bus/): Managers at various levels struggle with common issues. Regardless of the industry where you serve, leadership challenges are very similar. There are some common themes I see played out time and time again. This article will explore those themes. But first, a story. Once upon a time, there was an old man who used to
- [Why Do Bad Bosses Always Win?](https://dougthorpe.com/why-do-bad-bosses-always-win/): Doesn't it seem like the bad guys frequently get the promotions and advancements at work? Have you ever wondered why or how that happens? First let's clear out one issue. Just because I don't like my boss, that doesn't mean he.she is bad. It takes a wide range of experience and observation to declare a
- [Finding Work Life Balance](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-work-life-balance/): Finding your own sense of work-life balance can be a daunting task. Depending on your current circumstance, the ability to find a real balance can be hard. Is work-life balance a destination or a decision? Much has been written about this elusive notion of real balance between your job and your personal life. How does
- [Leaders: Want to Up-level Your Communication?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-want-level-communication/): Managers face a constant struggle to improve communication within their work teams. Besides being able to accurately articulate any technical aspects about the work (every industry has its key phrases, terms, and buzzwords), business leaders have to be ever-mindful of some very basic principles of effective communication. We usually think about communication as a two-part/two person
- [Three Stages of Life: Wage, Page and Sage](https://dougthorpe.com/three-stages-of-life-wage-page-and-sage/): We make plans and have dreams, but then life happens. The day to day takes over, having a mysterious way of clouding those great visions we have for ourselves. Here's a little bit of life coaching for you. Compared to many of you who read my articles, I sit with a few extra trips around the
- [Burn the Ships - Eliminate the Easy Out](https://dougthorpe.com/easy-out/): We all like Plan “B” options that afford us escape when things don't work out. In 1519, Captain Hernán Cortés landed in Veracruz to begin his great conquest. Upon arriving, he gave the order to his men to burn the ships. How's that for bold leadership? As a leader, you must decide when and how
- [Tips for Living Through Change](https://dougthorpe.com/tips-living-change/): It just seems we can never get away from change. It's an ever-present topic that leaders and business owners struggle to manage and survive. What is so darn hard about managing change? Lately, I have been surrounded by various types of change. It seems every one of my clients, my volunteer efforts, and even portions
- [Struggling with Self-Confidence? Try these 10 things](https://dougthorpe.com/struggling-self-confidence-try-10-things/): Clients frequently ask me one big question. It seems to haunt executives at all levels. Business owners and CEOs share a common bond for this one aspect of their ability to lead. Get bumped up one more rung on the ladder of success and you run smack into this question. The question? How do I
- [The Balloon Story - Avoid Getting Filled with Hot Air](https://dougthorpe.com/balloon-story-avoid-getting-filled-hot-air/): One day a fellow was flying in a hot air balloon but realized he was lost. He saw a guy in a field and yelled down “Where am I?” The man yelled back, “You're in a hot air balloon, about 30 feet off the ground, flying over a cornfield.” The guy in the balloon shouts back,
- [The Power of a Personal Vision Statement](https://dougthorpe.com/power-personal-vision-statement/): If you've ever gone through an attempt to write a company's vision statement, you know how tough it can be. If the end result is 50 words or less, it is likely there were 500 drafts before the final statement came out. Yet it's easier to think about a company's vision statement than think about
- [Growing Influence: Using Easy Leadership Moments](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-in-the-moment/): Key executives and business owners get consumed by thoughts of big picture responsibility. Thinking big is a valued trait, right? Sure, we expect our leaders to provide us vision. You have to be able to see the big picture to become a successful executive. However, there is one big catch to this blue sky thinking.
- [Management and Leadership: Actor or Expert?](https://dougthorpe.com/actor-or-expert/): If you are in a position of management at your place of employment, you have choices to make every day. If you are relatively new to the position, whether due to sudden promotion or career advancement, you likely feel a sense of being overwhelmed. As you get your feet under you, you have even
- [New Honor Top 100 Socially-Shared Blogs](https://dougthorpe.com/new-honor/): Today I received word that my blog has been recognized by the CMOE (Center for Management and Organization Effectiveness) as one of the Top 100 Socially-Shared Leadership Blogs, 2018 edition. I am humbled by this selection and honored to have been added to this list. See the entire list HERE
- [Is Your HR Department Lying to You?](https://dougthorpe.com/employee-performance-review/): It might seem silly to even suggest this. Human Resources is supposed to be the very definition of ethical behavior; creators of the fairness and equity policies, modelers of proper corporate standards. Yet when it comes to employee performance review, there is a lot of slanted truth. In my 30 plus years in business, I
- [What Are You Waiting For?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-are-you-waiting-for/): There comes a time in life when you've done all the thinking, study, analysis, and planning you can do. You reach a decision point. Then it happens. You freeze. You cannot go forward. You're stuck. The question is then, what are you waiting for? What is it that holds you back, makes you balk? How
- [Homeward Bound - Making the Shift from Work to Home](https://dougthorpe.com/homeward-bound-making-the-shift-from-work-to-home/): Busy professionals face many similar challenges. Finding the elusive work-life balance is likely one of the biggest problems. You spend your days leading teams, making decisions, solving problems, and guiding the big work effort, but how do you make the transition going home? I'm talking about the change that happens as you leave the office
- [Season 1, Episode 2 - Work-Life Balance](https://dougthorpe.com/season-1-episode-2-work-life-balance/): Taking a look at work-life balance as rigid versus flexible.
- [Level-Up by Dumbing Down](https://dougthorpe.com/level-up-by-dumbing-down/): Moving up the professional ladder requires nimbleness. Yet many would-be SVPs and CEOs miss the mark by hanging onto their technical roots too long. What do I mean? I watch very capable people hide behind the technical jargon of their business. Getting these up-and-comers to explain something without a post-graduate thesaurus in hand is next to
- [Breaking a Cycle: Familiar Captivity Versus Unfamiliar Freedom](https://dougthorpe.com/familiar-captivity-versus-unfamiliar-freedom/): Have you ever realized that something you are doing is a recurring cycle of very unproductive behavior, thought or effort? Perhaps it's a job, a relationship, a habit, or worse, some addiction, behavior or belief that keeps you from being the person you want to be? You know who you think you are, but certain
- [Leaders: Lead Like the Great Conductors](https://dougthorpe.com/lead-like-great-conductors/): When talking about leadership and management coaching, sports analogies are often added for greater effect. Stories of great coaches who have won championship titles fill the business and executive coaching landscape. While these parallels can be powerful, there are others to consider. Perhaps a more meaningful representation of effective management and leadership comes from the world
- [Using Halftime Thinking for Greater Significance](https://dougthorpe.com/halftime-thinking-for-greater-significance/): Busy professionals seldom think about the total impact of their lives until they get to an age where the end is near. When your own mortality becomes a reality, you begin to think in terms of changes you want to make to move from success to significance. Younger adults don't think about this much. After
- [It's Not Over til It's Over](https://dougthorpe.com/its-not-over-til-its-over/): There's an interesting phenomenon in business and in personal affairs. When a work project or season of life has been particularly protracted, some of us have a hard time staying the course to reach the period at the end. People don't always finish well. There is something about sensing the finish line that causes us
- [Decisions: The Juice Isn't Worth the Squeeze](https://dougthorpe.com/juice-isnt-worth-the-squeeze/): Making things happen takes effort. Leaders know that sometimes all the best effort gets wasted on outcomes that fall short of expectations. You face leadership decisions throughout your day. How do you make the effort worthwhile? Consistently making the best of your own effort and that of your team is what separates one leader from
- [Leadership Retreat and Reflection](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-retreat-and-reflection/): Today is something a bit different. Instead of my usual message, I am providing you with a collection of leadership quotes and quips sent to me by readers. Please ponder these thoughts. Some are from great leaders you may know about and admire. Others are from unusual sources; places I didn't expect to get these
- [Owners and Leaders: Why Live a Groundhog's Day?](https://dougthorpe.com/owners-and-leaders-why-live-a-groundhogs-day/): We all find ourselves occasionally reliving events and circumstances from our work and home lives. The same negative events repeat themselves without positive change.
- [Great Leaders Talk Last](https://dougthorpe.com/great-leaders-talk-last/): Have you ever wondered why your team doesn't seem to participate in any discussions at meetings? Or can you cut the air with a knife at one of your team sessions? Perhaps you are the reason there is so little collaboration and contribution. Managers or owners who call a meeting, but then proceed to spout the
- [Leaders - Wonder How to Blend Ink with Inc?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-wonder-how-to-blend-ink-with-inc/): Tattooing is a popular way for some people to express themselves. Whether the ink someone wears is a sign of independence or a not-so-subtle message, I've seen a lot of really impressive artwork on forearms, calves, ankles, and shoulders. Nowadays, age doesn't seem to be a limiting factor for all things ink. Using this ancient
- [Improve Your Personal ROI](https://dougthorpe.com/improve-your-personal-roi/): How is your intentionality? Try this exercise: close your eyes and count to 20 slowly. Stay focused on the count and don't allow your subconscious to do the counting. Sounds easy, right? Now, do it again and start over every time you are distracted by another thought. That is much more challenging for most of us.
- [How Does EQ Impact the Bottom Line?](https://dougthorpe.com/how-does-eq-impact-the-bottom-line/): The CEO was fed up. If she got one more complaint about the VP of Operations she was going to fire him. It was obvious when he was in a bad mood because he yelled at his people and slammed doors. The team was easily upset and often distracted which affected their productivity. The outbursts
- [Life's Three Secrets](https://dougthorpe.com/lifes-three-secrets/): Clients often ask me about ways to increase their confidence. Apparently plenty of qualified executives suffer from a bit of inferiority. They are fearful of being "found out" as not being fully capable of handling the job they have. As we explore ways to build confidence, we often come across limiting beliefs that stem from
- [How to Be a Good Coaching Client](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-be-a-good-coaching-client/): Executive coaching is growing in popularity. Former stigmas associated with having a coach are evaporating. There once was a time when Boards only hired coaches to "fix" someone. Now, very successful executives are hiring coaches to grow even further than before. Companies are embracing coaching as ways to leverage their investment in senior managers and
- [One Hurdle Some Leaders Can't Overcome](https://dougthorpe.com/one-hurdle-some-leaders-cant-overcome/): Cracking the code on effective leadership includes a wide range of attributes and considerations. With all the combinations of factors making a great leader, there is one set of personality traits that I find the most challenging for some clients to adjust. You seldom hear the words “introvert” and “leader” in the same sentence. The
- [Leaders: Feeling Isolated? Maybe You Dug the Moat](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-feeling-isolated-maybe-you-dug-the-mote/): When I hear executives or entrepreneurs say they feel isolated, like standing on an island, I often ask how did you get there? Sometimes you may be the one who dug the moat providing the divide between you and everyone else. A Story I know a very successful executive who runs a thriving subsidiary enterprise
- [In Decision Making: Is It Requirement or Desirement?](https://dougthorpe.com/in-decision-making-is-it-requirement-or-desirement/): There's a decision to be made. You weigh the options and ask for more information. Then it's time to choose. But wait. Is the thing you have to decide a requirement or a desirement? Decision making can get clouded by issues or priorities that are more a desire than a requirement. To oversimplify the argument,
- [Leadership Coaching | Influence vs. Power](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-coaching-influence-vs-power/): As professionals get moved into management roles, there's a natural confusion about what to do and how to do it. Moving from being an individual contributor on a team to running the team is a big leap for most of us. This is especially true in industries where people don't train for management positions. It
- [Get in Gear - The Leader-shift](https://dougthorpe.com/get-in-gear-the-leader-shift/): Leadership means different things to different people. Not all managers are good leaders, but good leaders usually manage well too. Management is about control. You can control quality, time, and money. Each one of these has a direct impact on the other two. It's a delicate balancing act. For example, increased quality often requires more
- [The Unsung Role of Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/the-unsung-role-of-leadership/): It is time to dedicate some blog space to a segment of my audience that gets little direct attention. I am talking about females who serve in leadership roles. I always write with an open mind about the topics I share, and I seldom differentiate between male or female. I still believe "leadership is leadership",
- [When You Lose, Are You Bitter or Better?](https://dougthorpe.com/when-you-lose-bitter-or-better/): Here's the scenario: life throws you a curve ball. Things don’t go your way. You suffer an embarrassing moment in front of colleagues, your spouse or your kids. You lose the deal, the game, the promotion, or the moment. The other guy wins. You failed. What are your responses? Yes, I believe there is more
- [Leadership Starts at Home](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-starts-at-home/): If you are already in a leadership position or want to be in one, you should reflect why? Are there certain skills you demonstrate? Have you always been in leadership? Or do you know you have potential that others may not yet recognize? While our adult life and the effort to earn a reasonable wage both
- [Setting the Right Focus on Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/setting-the-right-focus-on-leadership/): Good leadership includes having the right focus. Who are you? Where are you going? Who do you want to be as a leader? That sort of thinking. There was once a middle manager who was well known for creating great results. Quarter by quarter, his numbers were always good. His team loved working for him,
- [Managing "UP" the Organization or Fixing a Bad Boss](https://dougthorpe.com/managing-up-the-organization-2/): Do you have one of those hard-to-work-for bad bosses? OK, that's too kind. Is your boss a jerk? Do you sometimes want to pull your hair out? Or even throw things after a talk with Mr./Mrs. Wonderful? Bad bosses almost always lack emotional intelligence. They play favorites, gossip, and have private agendas not always in
- [Leaders: Solving Problems Through Re-framing](https://dougthorpe.com/solving-problems-with-reframing/): Many leaders build their careers and reputations solving problems. Often, the problem as you know it is not really the problem. Finding ways to maximize success, reduce risk, and win the day is what can make a leader's problem-solving skills so special. Yet when faced with a new challenge, you sometimes feel stuck. How do you
- [A Leader's Vision Needs Buy-In](https://dougthorpe.com/buy-in/): While there are many attributes that define good leadership, we usually think of a leader's ability to share a vision as the real indicator of that leader's reputation. Vision is often thought of as being synonymous with leadership. Having a vision for where the team is going is what being a leader is about, right?
- [Who's Going to Lead Them?](https://dougthorpe.com/whos-going-to-lead-them/): Better than anticipated results have recently been reported for the US job market. According to a recent Houston Chronicle article, “Employers added 223,000 jobs last month, more than economists expected and an uptick from April's hiring rate of 159,000.” The US Department of Labor released more data. [perfectpullquote align="right" bordertop="false" cite="" link="" color="#d98310" class="" size=""]“Never
- [More About Building Better Teams Thru Trust](https://dougthorpe.com/building-better-teams-thru-trust/): Are you responsible for a team at work? Is it performing at the highest level you can imagine? I've been writing about the impact that trust can have on your team. But why does trust matter? In my last article, I introduced a powerful and proven model that defines the stages for building trust on
- [Today's Business Landscape - Filled with Paradox](https://dougthorpe.com/todays-business-landscape-filled-with-paradox/): Leading an organization has never been easy. Increasing productivity pressures and demographic shifts have undeniably made it more difficult to be in executive leadership. During an economic boom, as long as organizations are in a prevailing growth mode, board members, shareholders, and the media take a hands-off approach. However, when these pressures shift, corporate leadership
- [Important Versus Urgent, or Both?](https://dougthorpe.com/important-versus-urgent-or-both/): If you're like most people I know, (myself included) you want to get it ALL done. But how do you decide what gets done first and what can wait?
- [Who's the Brightest Bulb?](https://dougthorpe.com/whos-the-brightest-bulb/): This is a question I've heard asked far too many times in a boardroom or around the table when trying to select new managers. It comes from the full phrase "He/she may be the brightest bulb in the string (string of lights)". It runs in the same vein as "Sharpest knife in the drawer", "best
- [Leaders: Looking for Advice? Where Do You Go?](https://dougthorpe.com/looking-for-advice-where-do-you-go/): Leaders are looking for advice. Business people often need it. New challenges and ever-changing priorities leave us looking for fresh ideas. Businesses operate at such a fast pace that owners and leaders are looking for advice wherever it is available. More often than not, you may reach toward the wrong resources. Un-tested advisors and questionable
- [Managers, How Do You Show Up?](https://dougthorpe.com/managers-show-up/): Whether you are the boss or just one of the team, you have choices every minute of every day. The way you decide to show up in the moment can be the single greatest factor in measuring your effectiveness and success.
- [SWOT Yourself](https://dougthorpe.com/swot-yourself/): There's a popular business analysis tool known as S.W.O.T. It provides a method for looking at strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. SWOT reviews are done for business issues of all kinds like competition, market position, product design, sales, and technology. As applied to a business, you can see the merit of doing this review periodically.
- [Happy 4th](https://dougthorpe.com/happy-4th/): We're taking a break to enjoy the holiday with family and friends. May you and yours be blessed with the freedoms we have. Time to put aside petty differences. Make a difference right where you are.
- [Suit Up, Show Up, and Shut Up](https://dougthorpe.com/suit-up-show-up-and-shut-up/): Suit Up, Show Up, and Shut Up - Three wise words shared with Mothers of the Groom for wedding planning and etiquette. A friend whose son was getting married recently shared this with me. I had heard it before but had forgotten the teaching. It sounds cruel but it has merit in the situation. After all, weddings are for the
- [Lead by Example - Learn by Example](https://dougthorpe.com/lead-by-example-learn-by-example/): What does it really mean to lead by example? What things should you do? How do you do it? Who's paying attention? When should you do it?
- [How to Avoid Having  a Frozen Middle in Your Company](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-avoid-having-a-frozen-middle/): In today's ever-increasing complexity of business, companies of all sizes are developing frozen middles. Here's how to avoid that.
- [A Mentor's Greatest Lament](https://dougthorpe.com/a-mentors-greatest-lament/): Mentors come in many varieties. Anyone who's been through some form of higher learning has probably been influenced by a teacher or professor.
- [Making Behavior Change Stick](https://dougthorpe.com/making-behavior-change-stick/): Have you ever tried breaking an old habit to replace it with some new behavior? Of course you have. Whether it's a diet, exercising more, reading more, less device time, or other lifestyle changes, adopting a new behavior can be tough.
- [Make Personal Mission Statements Work for You](https://dougthorpe.com/make-personal-mission-statements-work-for-you/): Personal mission statements guide you towards your goals. If you sometimes feel like you’re floundering, chart your course by putting your purpose into writing.
- [Leadership and Life - Walking the Fine Lines](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-and-life-walking-the-fine-lines/): Travel around the sun a few times and you learn things. If I've learned anything traveling my journey around the sun (I've done it 65 times), I see people all around who trip on the fine lines. What do I mean? I am talking about those oh so subtle differences between things that are very
- [Questions, Questions, Questions - Asking Better Leadership Questions](https://dougthorpe.com/questions-questions-questions-asking-better-leadership-questions/): Our headlines are filled with questions. Did he? Did she? Who did what and when? Why? All of these questions consume our attention and build tensions between opposing factions. For what real good? (Ha, another question!) Questions can be used for good or bad. Well-intended questions can add clarity. A properly structured question uttered in the
- [5 Ideas for One-Person Businesses](https://dougthorpe.com/5-ideas-for-one-person-businesses/): As the new year comes around, people may start thinking about opening their own business. But what if you don't want to open a store or hire a bunch of people. Can you do something as a one-person business? Many people dream of starting their own business. There’s something about being your own boss, setting
- [The Power of Positivity: 5 Way to Get More in Your Life](https://dougthorpe.com/the-power-of-positivity-5-way-to-get-more-in-your-life/): There is a general consensus among clients I serve that says "the pace of business is greater than it's ever been." Fast pace usually includes a focus on performance; do more, be more. I'm a big fan of improving performance at all levels both personal and professional. At work, team performance is a big deal
- [Nobody Likes to Deal With Bad Employees](https://dougthorpe.com/nobody-likes-to-deal-with-bad-employees/): finding the right talent, placing the right talent, managing the people, and keeping the best talent.
- [21 Ways to Improve Leadership Effectiveness](https://dougthorpe.com/21-ways-to-improve-leadership-effectiveness/): Every box on every organization chart is about who the executive or manager is going to be. At least that is where the thinking usually starts. We somehow think we need to name the managers first, then we place employees under them to build out a team. This whole focus on “managing” the team sets
- [Being an Authentic Leader Does Not Always Come Naturally](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-being-authentic/): One of the highest valued attributes of great leaders is their authenticity. Being authentic does not always come naturally. The good news is, you can develop a more authentic leadership style. On one hand, being authentic requires having a sense of “true north.” True North Ask a room full of people to close their eyes
- [Leaders: Do You Have a YES Face?](https://dougthorpe.com/do-you-have-a-yes-face/): Executive leaders need to think about their face when they make announcements, hold discussions, and conduct meetings. The look you have says much more than the words you speak.
- [Living in the Meantime](https://dougthorpe.com/living-in-the-meantime/): There are times when nothing particularly big is happening. You're in between assignments, projects, or deadlines. You have work to do and places to be, but the sense of purpose goes on autopilot. The time between one occurrence and another; an interval is the meantime. Should that bother you? I say not necessarily unless it lingers too long. I call this "living in the
- [What Are Your Defining Moments?](https://dougthorpe.com/whhat-are-your-defining-moments/): Defining moments. What do they mean to you? I don't hear people talk much these days about defining moments, but we all share them. No, not the exact situation or set of circumstances, but the reality of having things happen to us or through us that make big changes in the way we see the
- [Saying Thanks to Old Mentors for Their Inspiration](https://dougthorpe.com/saying-thanks-to-old-mentors/): This week families across the USA gather to celebrate Thanksgiving. It means many different things to different people. As one of my clients shared when I asked about his plans, "lots of food, too much to drink, and too much football." (Sounds like my kind of gathering, but I digress). The spirit of this holiday is
- [Leadership Avoiding the Split](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-avoiding-the-split/): In a recent Ted Talk, Simon Sinek eloquently describes the most critical pivot point in the life of all companies, communities, and tribes. He presents the principle that all organizations are formed around ideas formulated by the founders. Yet as success grows, the connection to the original vision may get lost. [embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VdO7LuoBzM[/embedyt] Think
- [Managers Being a Friend at Work or Just Friendly?](https://dougthorpe.com/managers-being-a-friend-at-work-or-just-friendly/): Anyone who has ever become a supervisor or manager knows the strain of drawing fine lines around relationships at work. Some companies have very explicit fraternization policies. Others are far more relaxed. The size of the company can also dictate the level of relationships people are permitted to have. On one hand, smaller, more entrepreneurial
- [Can You Accept Perfect Imperfection?](https://dougthorpe.com/perfect-imperfection/): Do you work in an environment where perfection is the measure of your performance? Maybe a score of 100% is the goal but seldom do any of us reach such perfection.
- [15 Ways You Sabotage Trust at Work](https://dougthorpe.com/15-ways-you-sabotage-trust-at-work/): Before you spend a lot of time trying to build and improve the trust factor at work, take a hard look at the ways you might be derailing trust.
- [Leaders: Are You a 2023 Contender or a Pretender?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-are-you-a-pretender-or-a-contender/): The biggest difference between managers and leaders who are pretenders versus contenders is a small six-inch piece of real estate; the distance between your ears.
- [5 Reasons Why Bad Bosses Suck So Bad](https://dougthorpe.com/5-reasons-why-bad-bosses-suck-so-bad/): Face it, we all know or have had bad bosses. It seems to be a given in the business world. It's been true for decades.
- [Leaders 180 Off the Mark](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-180-off-the-mark/): Great leadership requires effective communication. Your ability to speak with a commanding voice and unshakable certainty is not the skill required.
- [Establishing a Personal Reflection](https://dougthorpe.com/establishing-a-personal-reflection/): Living life with intentional direction is far more rewarding than one day arriving at some destination and wondering why or how you got there.
- [Leading in a VUCA World](https://dougthorpe.com/leading-in-a-vuca-world/): The word VUCA is really an acronym that stands for Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity. You would think this is a new term describing the recent events we have all faced.
- [When Was Your Last Paradigm Shift?](https://dougthorpe.com/when-was-your-last-paradigm-shift/): Ah, the now infamous paradigm shift. I learned about "paradigm" at a Stephen R. Covey seminar back when he was alive, touring, and promoting his 7 Habits book. The word wasn't even in my vocabulary at the time. It became a popular buzzword for business for many years afterward. In case you're wondering, here's the
- [How Do You Do What You Do?](https://dougthorpe.com/how-do-you-do-what-you-do/): Gaining Experience From time to time, I have a mentee say "I am interested in doing what you do. Please tell me how to do that." Often I struggle with that ask, because if I was honest, I'd say "You've got to be kidding me. Do you know what I've been through to get here?"
- [The 5 C's of a Trusted Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/the-5-cs-of-a-trusted-leader/): Successful leaders build trust. Building trust is something you must do. Trust underpins every relationship in the workplace - between boss and employee, between colleagues, and between businesses.
- [Leader's ABCs](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-abcs/): A leader's influence on the people they serve is best demonstrated with perpetual coaching and mentoring. Sharing insights and giving honest, helpful feedback to your direct reports helps build a legacy of powerful leadership.
- [Some People Are Just Haters](https://dougthorpe.com/some-people-are-just-haters/): The life of a manager/business leader certainly has its benefits, but there are downsides to being a leader too. Not long ago, I received an email from someone who had served on a large project with me. Their recall of my leadership role was, let's say, "less than flattering." The project in question was a
- [We've All Been Ambushed at Work](https://dougthorpe.com/weve-all-been-ambushed-at-work/): Let's face it, it's no fun when you get ambushed at work. Here are a few thoughts and recommendations to avoid ambushing your people.
- [Are You a FAST Leader?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-a-fast-leader/): International leadership guru Gordon Tredgold coined the term FAST for his book by the same name and his teaching on effective leadership. FAST is an acronym that encompasses all the best attributes for finding success. Whether your dreams are personal or professional, FAST can help. Let's unpack this powerful meaning. F is for FOCUS. You
- [Want Amazing Results from Your Team? Get in the Pool](https://dougthorpe.com/want-amazing-results-from-your-team/): Summer is not far away. Where I live, we look forward to summer because you can enjoy the backyard swimming pool. My grand kids are already asking "how much longer?" Fun in the pool comes in many ways. Claire Chandler, a senior HR professional in my tribe writes: The greatest enjoyment as a kid in
- [To Be a Great Leader, You Must Inspect What You Expect](https://dougthorpe.com/inspect-expect/): Inspect what you expect. This is an old saying that I learned decades ago. What does it mean, exactly? And what does it have to do with leadership? Well… Have you been guilty of spouting a directive then letting it die a natural death? We’ve all done it at one point or another—whether accidentally or
- [Leaders Don't Kick the Can and Check the Box](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-dont-kick-the-can-and-check-the-box/): Busy-ness is all around us. You hear complaints about how tired and frustrated people can be because of all the work they have going on.
- [Dream Small](https://dougthorpe.com/dream-small/): The opportunities for the biggest impact come down to small moments. You could argue it truly is dreaming small.
- [3 Ways to Better Accountability](https://dougthorpe.com/3-ways-to-better-accountability/): The word for today is accountability. It's an elusive yet powerful tool for your leadership toolbox.
- [Living With a Gratitude Attitude](https://dougthorpe.com/living-with-a-gratitude-attitude/): Across the wide spectrum of mindsets you might have when you walk through the door each day, how often does gratitude make it to the front of your list? If you're like many of the executive leaders out there, you probably aren't thinking about being thankful on a daily basis. Not everyone thinks gratitude is
- [3 Circles of Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/3-circles-of-leadership/): Whether you own a business or work for a larger company in a management role, there are three circles of leadership you will be juggling at all times. In a perfect world, the circles overlap right in the center, so look more like one happy circle. However, that is a rare situation. If you have
- [Bubble-Wrapped Leaders?](https://dougthorpe.com/bubble-wrapped-leaders/): If you sit in an executive seat whether CEO, owner or manager, are YOU bubble-wrapped? What is a bubble -rapped leader?
- [Kill the Bell Curve](https://dougthorpe.com/kill-the-bell-curve/): Managers often believe their workforce distribution is some kind of bell curve. Research says NO. There is a long-standing belief in business that people performance follows the Bell Curve. This belief has been embedded in many business practices: performance appraisals, compensation models, and even how we get graded in school. (Remember "grading by the curve?")
- [Change and Progress, Are They Twins?](https://dougthorpe.com/change-and-progress-are-they-twins/): Change for the sake of change is meaningless. However, progress toward a new goal or achievement is more vital and more valuable to your organization.
- [Living and Leaving a Legacy](https://dougthorpe.com/living-and-leaving-a-legacy/): At some point in everyone's life, three questions haunt your thinking. Who am I? Why am I here? And where am I going? Perhaps you've visited these questions more than once, stopping at various stages; the ones we think of as defining moments. Events like getting married, having children, changing jobs, buying a new house,
- [Trust in the Workplace](https://dougthorpe.com/trust-in-the-workplace/): “My employer” was named by 75% of those surveyed worldwide as the most trusted institution in the recently released 2019 Edelman Trust Barometer. These findings from the annual report, now in its 19th year, reflect the significance of building and maintaining trust in the workplace.
- [5 Ways Managers Can Get More from Their Teams](https://dougthorpe.com/5-ways-managers-can-get-more-from-their-teams/): You and I both control one big thing in our daily lives. That 'thing' is the effort we choose to spend. Whether it is effort at work, at home, in the gym, on the golf course, fishing, playing sports, or building relationships, we all choose what level of effort is used.
- [Leaders Must Impact the Networks Around Them](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-must-impact-the-networks-around-them/): Spend any time at a particular company and you will find yourself part of an informal network. This network is above and beyond the boxes on the org chart. Your ability to build and effectively manage the networks around you might just be the single biggest advantage you might have as a leader.
- [Can You Guess the Weight of an Ox?](https://dougthorpe.com/can-you-guess-the-weight-of-an-ox/): While you might be the owner or CEO of your respective company, you can still leverage the wisdom of others to help you make better, more informed decisions.
- [Here's a Great Mash-Up of Ideas for Better Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/heres-a-great-mash-up-of-ideas-for-better-leadership/): In recent posts, I've explored two great themes that have received a lot of attention on social media. Leaders and managers can benefit from both ideas. Today, we're going to do a mash-up of the two.
- [How to Find Perspective in Your Own Leadership Ability](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-find-perspective-and-handle-derailers-in-your-own-leadership-ability/): Having the right perspective in life is vitally important, but it has special meaning for people in leadership positions.
- [The Post-COVID Mindset Shift: Redefining Work, Family, and Loyalty](https://dougthorpe.com/the-post-covid-mindset-shift-redefining-work-family-and-loyalty/): Embracing the Post-Covid Mindset: Rethinking Work and Family As an executive coach who's guided leaders through thick and thin for over 20 years, I've witnessed a fascinating phenomenon: a large-scale mindset shift triggered by the global pandemic. COVID-19 didn't just disrupt our health; it fundamentally changed the way we approach work, family, and even our
- [Dodge, Duck, Dip, Dive, and Dodge](https://dougthorpe.com/dodge-duck-dip-dive-and-dodge/): In the classic feel-good movie "Dodge Ball", legend Patches O'Houlihan, played by Rip Torn, yells these 5 words at the misfits of "Average Joe's Gym". That gym is owned by Peter LaFleur (Vince Vaughn). The gym is in debt and needs $50,000 to avoid being gobbled up by "Globo Gym" owned by the villain, White
- [Want Real Change? Don't Take the Scenic Route](https://dougthorpe.com/want-real-change-dont-take-the-scenic-route/): If you are thinking about making a change at work, at home or for yourself, don't take the scenic route.
- [Are You Ready to Take a Chance?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-ready-to-take-a-chance/): As businesses across the globe begin to ponder their choices for reopening in a post-COVID-19 world, people will be faced with choices. While governmental restrictions dictate some of those choices, it appears all other choices will be left up to the owner/manager. Are you ready to take a chance? The choices will involve taking chances.
- [Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow](https://dougthorpe.com/yesterday-today-and-tomorrow/): We’ve all heard various ideas about managing our lives. When you break it all down, things can get lumped into these three categories. And we've all heard the saying: "Live for today." But what about yesterday and tomorrow? Life isn't a series of isolated moments. It's a beautiful tapestry woven from the threads of our
- [What Is Professional Presence and How Can I Achieve It?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-professional-presence-and-how-can-i-achieve-it/): What Exactly Is Presence? Presence is letting the most powerful version of yourself shine through. I like to cite the renowned leadership expert Sylvia Ann Hewlett, who defines “presence” as a combination of gravitas, communication, and appearance. Together, these elements form an impression of trustworthiness, competence, and authenticity. Gravitas is signaling that you have the
- [Leaders: If you Confuse, You Lose](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-if-you-confuse-you-lose/): A confused mind says NO. If you confuse the people around you, the overall performance will be greatly reduced or even eliminated.
- [Cultivating Harmony: Growing vs. Building Company Culture](https://dougthorpe.com/cultivating-harmony-growing-vs-building-company-culture/): Company culture. It's a buzzword thrown around in boardrooms and plastered across job postings. But what exactly is it, and how do you achieve it? There seems to be a common misconception: culture is something you build, a foundation laid from scratch. But a thriving company culture is more akin to a garden - something
- [The Spectrum of Workplace Personalities: Beyond Cool Breezes and Fog Machines](https://dougthorpe.com/the-spectrum-of-workplace-personalities-beyond-cool-breezes-and-fog-machines/): A few years ago I wrote a piece contrasting the "cool breeze" and the "fog machine", whimsically (at least my attempt at whimsy) to illustrate extreme possibilities in the way a leader can show up at work. I think It's time to delve deeper into that idea (minus the whimsy part). While the "Cool Breeze"
- [How Does Personality Impact Your Leadership?](https://dougthorpe.com/how-does-personality-impact-your-leadership/): People talk about charismatic leaders having "big" personalities. Powerful leaders are often known as "Type A" personalities. We know about introverts and extroverts.
- [Maximizing Your Return on Invested TIME](https://dougthorpe.com/maximizing-your-return-on-invested-time/): Many years ago, a business coach and mentor I knew named Gerry Fusco introduced me to a phrase he invented. Return on invested time (ROIT). As business owners and leaders, we know about ROI, ROE, EBITDA, SDE, etc. But have you ever spent any waking hours measuring ROIT? We make plans, build budgets, measure KPIs,
- [3 Rings of Accountability](https://dougthorpe.com/3-rings-of-accountability/): Leaders at all levels share some common responsibilities. It doesn't matter whether you are the CEO of a Fortune 500 or the owner of a small shop in the local town. You have some common threads that weave the fabric of who and what you need to be as a leader. In a recent post
- [Building Team Trust When Some Don't Trust Anyone](https://dougthorpe.com/building-team-trust-when-some-dont-trust-anyone/): Dan was recognized as a strong and effective leader. He had earned the respect from the CEO and other senior leaders at his company. In his newest assignment, he had been working hard to establish the framework of trust that he knew would be vital to the team's success. From the very first day as
- [Moving Toward Something, Not Away From It](https://dougthorpe.com/moving-toward-something-not-away-from-it/): This season of COVID-19 in our lives has brought change at all levels of humanity. It is clear our interactions may never be the same again. There likely will never be a return to "normal" as we once knew it. Is that OK? For an organized unit of any kind (a family, a small business,
- [Happy Thanksgiving](https://dougthorpe.com/happy-thanksgiving-2/): In this edition, I have no new material to share. In honor of the Thanksgiving Holiday, I simply want to say THANK YOU to the many who have chosen to follow my blog, podcasts, and videos. It is you, the reader/listener/viewer who bless me with your interest and comments. The date we call Thanksgiving is
- [7 Strategies for Being a Better Manager](https://dougthorpe.com/7-strategies-for-being-a-better-manager/): Being a good manager requires a level of leadership. Without the right training and development, you might find that being a manager is a struggle.
- [Silver Fox Advisors - Lunch & Learn Jan 23](https://dougthorpe.com/silver-fox-advisors-lunch-learn-jan-23/): Attention Houston area business leaders, the Silver Fox Advisors is hosting its monthly Lunch & Learn program. This month features NASA Astronaut Col. Michael E. Fossum, USAFR. Michael E. Fossum is the Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of the Galveston campus of Texas A&M University. He joined Texas A&M following his retirement from NASA
- [Missing Your Old Meetings?](https://dougthorpe.com/missing-your-old-meetings/): People everywhere are struggling with the extended shutdowns from COVID-19. All the Type-A personalities are going absolutely crazy not being able to interact face to face or in small groups. If you rated 'extrovert' on your personality assessment, you are hurting right about now. The introverts are enjoying the calm. However, none of us can
- [How Ping Pong Can Save Your Relationships](https://dougthorpe.com/ping-pong-of-love-and-leadership/): Picture each of your daily interactions with your spouse as a game of table tennis—you know, ping-pong, like the table you had set-up in the garage as a kid.
- [This Makes My Head Explode](https://dougthorpe.com/this-makes-my-head-explode/): There is a conversation that happens all too often when I speak with business owners. It's a talk that makes my head explode! It goes something like this. I’m usually speaking with an owner who is struggling with getting something done for the betterment of their business. The business owner says, “I tell them what to
- [Business Advisor - Business Consulting - Executive Coach](https://dougthorpe.com/business-advisor-business-consulting-executive-coach/): If your business has stopped growing at the pace you want, a business advisor may be your next step. Even the best athletes rely on coaching to sharpen their skills and find that next step up to find a competitive edge.
- [Leadership in Times of Crisis - Finding the CALM](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-in-times-of-crisis/): In times of crisis and concern, leadership value rises to a premium. You, as a leader, must be the one to help others survive.
- [What Do You Do with a 3-2 Count?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-do-you-do-with-a-3-2-count/): In baseball, there is something known as the 3-2 count (three-two). It means three balls and two strikes. It means the person who is up to bat has only the next pitch to get something done. Three strikes and you're out. If the pitcher misses the strike zone and the batter waits to swing, it
- [Leaders Helping Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-helping-leaders/): Friday, April 3, at 10:30 AM CT I'm inviting you to join me for a community discussion about our response to COVID-19. I've been talking with dozens of small business owners who are up against the wall. We need to pull together to help each other. This session will have NO SALES pitches, no products
- [Come Home Before Dark](https://dougthorpe.com/come-home-before-dark/): Lately, I've been reminded of a saying I once used to guide my kids. The phrase was 'come home before dark'. When I was younger, we'd play outside seemingly forever. When we asked to go outside, our parents always said: "Come home before dark." That was a literal meaning. Once it was dark, if we
- [Job Search Support](https://dougthorpe.com/job-search-support/): Join me and my close friend, Rick Gillis, as we open the mic to talk job search. We're hosting a live ZOOM call Monday April 13 (next Monday) 6:00PM CT. https://dougthorpe.us/39QfLS7 Rick and I both worked together during the last financial crisis in 2008-2010. We helped over 4,500 job seekers with powerful ways to create a
- [You Are NOT Your Job](https://dougthorpe.com/you-are-not-your-job-2/): If you lost your job today, what would that do to your sense of self-worth? Would you be OK with it, or would you really suffer? Would you be worried about what your spouse, children, family, and friends think about you because you lost the job? During the financial crisis of 2007-08 millions of American’s
- [Have You Found Your Edge?](https://dougthorpe.com/have-you-found-your-edge/): The global pandemic has caused everyone to rethink their normal. Finding a new normal has become a worldwide goal. While there is talk of returning to some kind of old normal, I wanted to challenge you with a simple question. Have you found your edge or are you standing at the edge? Let's tackle the
- [Are You Coachable?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-coacable/): If your current professional or personal situation is not producing the results you expect, then perhaps some coaching is needed. But before you simply engage a coach, ask yourself whether you are truly coachable.
- [What is Trust Anyway?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-trust/): There is one key area frequently cited as a critical factor in determining whether a leader is effective or not. That factor is TRUST.
- [The Problem Is Not the Problem, Part 2](https://dougthorpe.com/the-problem-is-not-the-problem-part-2/): When you started your business, you had a vision. There was some product or service you wanted to deliver. Likely you firmly believed your 'thing' was going to solve everyone's problems. Right?
- [Burn the Boats - The Toughest Leadership Command](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-command/): We all like Plan “B” options that afford us escapes when things don't work out.
- [The Meeting Before the Meeting](https://dougthorpe.com/the-meeting-before-the-meeting/): There's a subtle yet powerful way to make change happen. It involves doing your homework and some legwork before a big meeting. I call it the 'meeting before the meeting.' Larger businesses often rely upon leadership meetings or Board meetings to make big decisions. The person or teams bringing requests for approval have big challenges
- [Position Yourself as a Leader in 20 Minutes or Less](https://dougthorpe.com/position-yourself-as-a-leader-in-20-minutes-or-less/): Positioning yourself as a leader will make your work more meaningful and advance your career. You can gain influence based on your title, or on knowledge and skills you already possess.
- [EOS or Not?](https://dougthorpe.com/eos-or-not/): As an advisor to small businesses, I often get asked about the Entrepreneur Operating System or "EOS." This system was made popular by Geno Wickman in his book, Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business. For the record, I am not a certified EOS Implementor. But, I am a fan of the approach. I've studied
- [Building the Right Leadership Foundation](https://dougthorpe.com/building-the-right-leadership-foundation/): If you've ever watched a building project, the laying of the foundation is critical. It is the foundation that sets the long-term stability of the structure. The way the foundation is dug in, reinforced, and poured or built is so important. The same can be said for your ability to become a strong leader. The
- [Top 10 Critical Competencies of Great Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/top-10-critical-competencies-of-great-leaders/): Great leaders share many common traits. Though criteria for leadership in the workplace can vary from company to company, the majority of effective leaders exemplify certain skills. By focusing on developing these same skills, you can take your leadership abilities to the next level. Develop these 10 important traits necessary to become a great leader:
- [Manager vs Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/manager-vs-leader/): When I taught Strategic Leadership, the students had to read John Kotter's 1990 article on "What Leaders Really Do." Kotter was very effective in setting out different functions for leaders and managers such as leaders align people as opposed to managers who organize and staff. Over the years, there has been debate on whether one
- [Executive Leadership and Woodworking](https://dougthorpe.com/executive-leadership-and-woodworking/): My wife said she wanted a new kitchen pantry for her birthday. I like doing what my wife asks. Fortunately for me, ripping out the old pantry and building a new one was something I enjoy doing. When I was growing up, a neighbor friend was a master craftsman. He had an amazing woodshop that
- [Getting the Most from Small Changes](https://dougthorpe.com/getting-the-most-from-small-changes/): For anyone trying to achieve new goals, you likely know about the idea of taking small steps. Yet when you want to improve your leadership effectiveness, those steps are hard to identify, much less work on. Almost every client I have had the opportunity to work with has found value in a simple concept I
- [Is Your Life a Happy Accident?](https://dougthorpe.com/is-your-life-a-happy-accident/): You might be offended by that question. Yet if you think about it, so many of us are living just that way. What do I mean? I mean going through your life and career without a purpose. You might be riding the wave of circumstances. Some things were great experiences, others not so much. You
- [Leaders: Can You Get Too Focused?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-can-you-get-too-focused/): The other day I was running errands and stopped at my bank. I went inside, did my business, and went back to my car. As I sat there checking emails, I was surprised by my passenger door opening with a young lady standing there. She looked up at me, shrieked, and said "Oh my God!"
- [The Naked Truth About LinkedIn Jail](https://dougthorpe.com/the-naked-truth-about-linkedin-jail/): Now I have a 'record'. LinkedIn booked me in their user-jail for about two weeks. What it meant was, I could not send any connection requests to anyone unless I knew their personal email.
- [Leaders: Setting a New Standard](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-setting-a-new-standard/): Can you be a Better Boss? We all can do something to up our leadership game. Why not join me in making 2022 the year of the Better Boss?
- [Coaching and Mentoring - Diving Deeper](https://dougthorpe.com/coaching-and-mentoring-diving-deeper/): It's been said that leaders who radically impact their teams are themselves good coaches. Taking on the mentoring and coaching role often does not come naturally to someone in a leadership position. One technique at the center of executive coaching is the art of asking good questions and/or reframing the response the coachee gives. If
- [Just Don't Screw It Up](https://dougthorpe.com/just-dont-screw-it-up/): This is possibly the strangest instruction I have ever heard a new manager receive from a superior. It happens when a new, up-and-coming manager gets a shot at running a segment of business that has already been operating successfully.
- [Leaders Lament - Who's Got the Time ????](https://dougthorpe.com/whos-got-the-time/): How often do you say to yourself "I don't have time?" There's one great equalizer in the world. TIME. The funny thing is, time is the one thing every human being on the face of the earth shares equally and has in common. It's the only thing. Our cultures may be different. We speak different
- [Have You Turned Away from Networking Groups?](https://dougthorpe.com/have-you-turned-away-from-networking-groups/): We are T-minus 2 weeks into 2021. Are you having fun yet? Have the New Year's resolutions taken root or been abandoned? People are still trying to make sense of the new normal we call COVID. I'm no different. But today I want to drill down on a topic that has been recurring more and
- [Why Trust Matters to Leaders; Leaders Build Trust](https://dougthorpe.com/why-trust-matters-to-leaders/): For decades, business leaders have been equipping themselves with every book, philosophy, reward, and program the so-called experts have convinced them to buy into, yet companies everywhere continue to struggle with toxic cultures, low performance from teams, and the unhappiness that go with them. Yet how can leaders build trust? From our earliest days on
- [When Things Stop Working](https://dougthorpe.com/when-things-stop-working/): You think things are going well and BAM. You find out there are people who don't like what you're doing.
- [Finding a North Star in 2021](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-a-north-star-in-2021/): It seems the world is spinning out of control. But I choose not to believe that. Rather, I believe we have temporarily lost our way. As someone who coaches, teaches, and writes about leadership, it is time to talk about one very vital aspect of what it means to be a leader. While I spend
- [Leave It Better Than You Found It](https://dougthorpe.com/leave-it-better-than-you-found-it/): Many years ago, when I was a boy Scout, my Scoutmaster had a mantra. Wherever we went camping, we were supposed to leave the surroundings better than we found it. That meant that before we left the area, we had to do a thorough cleanup, pick-up, and canvas of the area.
- [Real Leaders Don't Lose the 'Person' in Personality](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-cant-lose-the-person-in-personality/): Whether you own a business or run one for a bigger company, your role as manager/leader is in the spotlight. When people start searching for leadership development tools or management training, you often run into a large segment of the market focused on Personality. The logic says 'if I understand my personality, and the personalities
- [How We Work - Perfect vs Imperfect](https://dougthorpe.com/perfect-vs-imperfect/): There is a struggle in modern business. As people show up for work, there is a tension between forces that imply we should somehow be perfect in what we achieve, yet we know in our hearts and minds we are imperfect in many ways.
- [The Greatest Growth Lever - Trust](https://dougthorpe.com/the-greatest-growth-lever-trust/): Part 1 - Why Leverage Trust? Contributed by Andy Hass and Richard Bents “Trust is the highest form of motivation. It brings out the very best in people.” Stephen R. Covey Google conducted a massive research project to study what made their most successful teams and called it Project Aristotle. After studying 180 teams, using
- [A Thankful Heart - A Leader's Blessing](https://dougthorpe.com/a-thankful-heart-a-leaders-blessing/): This is going to be a detour from my usual teaching and coaching topics. It's a day to focus on an important aspect of leadership. Being thankful. Are you thankful today? Can you be thankful most days? Thankful for the job you have, the role you play? Are you thankful for family and friends? Or
- [Meetings Run Wild? Yell ELMO](https://dougthorpe.com/run-better-meetings/): We've all been there before. You've called the meeting, the agenda opens up, and someone derails it. Call it chasing rabbits or going down the wrong path, whatever. Someone gets off on a tangent and sucks the air out of the room. What can you do? Smart teams do more than just get work done.
- [Building Trust at Work - Improving Team Results](https://dougthorpe.com/building-trust-at-work-improving-team-results/): Trust in the workplace should be a vital part of success and reward. Yet managers seldom focus on building trust to build a great team.
- [Is Your Family Business Too Much Family and Not Enough Business?](https://dougthorpe.com/is-your-family-business-too-much-family-and-not-enough-business/): A large majority of small business is in fact family business. The classic "Mom & Pop" structure. Mom or Dad get an idea and start a business. As the need for extra help grows, the easy answer is to hire other family members to help you get it going. Often the thinking behind this involves
- [Things To Learn About Online Sales Training](https://dougthorpe.com/things-to-learn-about-online-sales-training/): A product or service can be sold in a variety of ways. The more sales tactics and strategies you use, the more likely you will reach your ultimate financial target and benefit. The question of how to become a successful salesperson receives a lot of attention nowadays. Good sellers are in high demand, particularly during
- [Characteristics the Brand Ambassador for Your Company Must Possess](https://dougthorpe.com/characteristics-the-brand-ambassador-for-your-company-must-possess/): Most organizations and companies have discovered that having a brand ambassador is the winning formula that will help them build a strong brand identity and a consistent ability to reach out to customers. This formula helps to humanize brands and build a relationship between the business and consumer that would have otherwise been impossible to achieve through other strategies.
- [More Than a Sales Trick - What is WIIFM?](https://dougthorpe.com/more-than-a-sales-trick-what-is-wiifm/): Many sales training programs teach a principle called WIIFM. Have you heard it? Know what it means? It stands for "what's in it for me?" The concept says a good salesperson must be prepared to answer that question on behalf of the prospect. In other words, if I am the salesperson, it's not about ME.
- [Motivation Secrets of Great Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/motivation-secrets-of-great-leaders/): Great leaders know how to motivate others. Since the amount you can accomplish on your own is limited, it’s necessary to have the assistance of others.
- [The Truth Is in the Middle](https://dougthorpe.com/the-truth-is-in-the-middle/): customers, colleagues, and employees. In your personal life, you see conflict popping up at home with your spouse or your kids. Family dynamics can be a big source of conflict. Simply said, conflict is eveywhere.
- [How to Be a Better Communicator](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-be-a-better-communicator/): Communication is the key when it comes to anything that involves collaboration. Since humans are a social species, communication is involved in nearly everything you do. Some people are born with the natural ability to communicate well, while others may struggle with it. No matter what category you fall into, it's likely that you can
- [Vision, Purpose, and Swimming with Dolphins](https://dougthorpe.com/vision-purpose-and-swimming-with-dolphins/): Leaders are supposed to provide vision, right? But if you're in a senior manager role does that apply to you? You might say, "No, that's the CEO's job." I disagree. If you've been put in a leadership role, YOU, my friend, must cast the vision. Don't wait on anyone else around you to do it.
- [Working the Plan – Step 3 in Team Trust](https://dougthorpe.com/working-the-plan-step-3-in-team-trust/): Leaders responsible for teams must cast a solid vision to define the purpose for their team. Your team needs to know why the team exists. Every good purpose needs a plan. How are we going to execute the vision we just agreed to pursue? Purpose and plan are critical parts of building team trust. Leaders
- [Leaders - Let's Talk Attitude](https://dougthorpe.com/lets-talk-attitude/): OK a few of you already shut down this article. Another message about attitude and your head will explode, right? Think again. Hang with me a minute. I don't want to talk about 'how attitude creates altitude' (although I do believe that). No, instead I want to share several of the more common attitudes I
- [Copy These 5 Communication Skills From Top Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/copy-these-5-communication-skills-from-top-leaders/): Do you struggle with communicating effectively? Communication is a key part of success at work or in other parts of your life. Top leaders have practiced and mastered the skills that enable them to communicate so well. Luckily, you too can learn these same skills! Follow these strategies to practice essential communication skills: Learn to
- [6 Big Ways Managers Kill Their Teams](https://dougthorpe.com/6-big-ways-managers-kill-their-teams/): Running a team at work is difficult. Creating a high-performing team is next to impossible. It is the very rare manager/leader who is successful at achieving truly reliable, high performance on a consistent basis. Think Nick Saban at Alabama or Bill Belichick at New England. Their ability to create winning teams at the highest level,
- [Leading From the Front ... or Not](https://dougthorpe.com/leading-from-the-front-or-not/): Therefore, today we explore the question of whether to lead from the front or lead from the rear.
- [5 Ways for Leaders to Inspire Their Team](https://dougthorpe.com/5-ways-for-leaders-to-inspire-their-team/): There’s a big difference between being a boss and being a leader. Anyone can be a boss, responsible for guiding their team and assigning tasks to different members of staff. But it takes something special to be a true leader. A genuine leader inspires their team and motivates them to accomplish amazing things. Effective leaders
- [Exploring the Real Meaning of Trust at Work](https://dougthorpe.com/exploring-the-real-meaning-of-trust-at-work/): Anyone who has ever been asked to lead a team knows something right away. Steering, guiding, leading, or managing people can be very difficult. It can feel like herding cats. Individual minds don't fall in line very easy. As the manager, you know where you want to go or at least you have some idea.
- [The Issue of Trust in Today's Workforce](https://dougthorpe.com/the-issue-of-trust-in-todays-workforce/): Employees in all job grades want to trust the people they work with. They want to trust their co-workers, their bosses, and the company leaders where they work. Trends in recent employee engagement studies have revealed there is a declining spirit of trust. Actually the results are mixed in a strange sort of way. In
- [How to Get What You Want: Negotiate Your Way to Success](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-get-what-you-want-negotiate-your-way-to-success/): Do you ever encounter situations when you feel very strongly about how you believe a project should be planned, carried out, or completed? Do you sometimes feel annoyed that the others involved don’t see the situation the same as you do? Here’s where good negotiation skills come in handy. Regardless of the career you’ve chosen,
- [8 Time Management Techniques for Busy People](https://dougthorpe.com/8-time-management-techniques-for-busy-people/): There are only so many hours in the day. You can’t store it, nor can you borrow more for later. Only you can decide what you spend your time on. Naturally, you’ll want to spend your time on things that add value to your life. But with life being so busy in these modern times,
- [Trust at Work - The Book](https://dougthorpe.com/trust-at-work-the-book/): My new book "Trust at Work" has been released. Actually, I can't take all the credit. This project has been a collaborative effort with my frined, colleague and former fellow banker, Roger Ferguson. Roger introduced me to the Team Trust Model some 30 years ago. The book has been two years in the making. It
- [Smart Ways to Nurture Trust at Work](https://dougthorpe.com/nurturing-trust-at-work/): Leaders understand the need for having better trust in their organization. It impacts companies of all sizes. However, knowing you need trust and want trust does not make it happen.
- [Leveling the Paying Field](https://dougthorpe.com/leveling-the-paying-field/): Read this title carefully. It's not about the "playing" field as in the old phrase. Instead, it's a disruptive idea for ways to fairly and equitably decide on compensation for your employees. The idea came from my long-time friend and colleague, Rick Gillis. The title is actually the title of his latest book. It releases
- [The Keys to Becoming a Great Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/the-keys-to-becoming-a-great-leader/): Today it seems everybody knows something about leadership. But when I taught strategic leadership courses to MBA students at the University of Houston, in the beginning, my first question to the students was "who wanted to be a leader and a great one at that?" There was always this look of bewilderment on their faces
- [Here's How to Make the Best of a Transition](https://dougthorpe.com/heres-how-to-make-the-best-of-a-transition/): Businesses of all shapes and sizes are faced with change. Growth requires nimble action. People selected for management and leadership roles have to be nimble too. If you've ever been given an opportunity to take on a new management role, you know the feeling. What do I do now? Facing a new transition at work
- [Feeling Flat? Here’s How to Rekindle Your Spark for Life](https://dougthorpe.com/feeling-flat-heres-how-to-rekindle-your-spark-for-life/): Everyone feels down and lost at certain points in their life. Sometimes, this has a more obvious cause, like a break-up or failing an exam. Sometimes nothing bad has happened at all, and you’re just having a bad day.
- [Becoming the Best Boss Ever](https://dougthorpe.com/becoming-the-best-boss-ever/): What would it take to make you the best boss ever? If you get promoted into a supervisory or management role, you might be asking this question. That is if you get past the "Oh snap, what do I do now" stage. But seriously, wouldn't it be better if you really could be the best
- [Positivity vs Negativity](https://dougthorpe.com/positivity-vs-negativity/): Please join me in spreading a little positivity. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Joyous New Year.
- [Defining Customer Service in 2022](https://dougthorpe.com/defining-customer-service-in-2022/): larger corporate settings, your team's customer may not be external at all. You may be serving an internal 'customer.'
- [Seen Any Red Flags Lately?](https://dougthorpe.com/seen-any-red-flags-lately/): Whether a new relationship, a new business arrangement, or just a new possibility in our life, the first signs of a red flag should give us pause.
- [Through the Leadership Looking Glass](https://dougthorpe.com/through-the-leadership-looking-glass/): Or what lens are you seeing through? Launching my 2022 campaign to help 10,000 managers and business owners become better bosses, I've already gotten some great responses. Over 1,400 have already acknowledged the need to improve and their pledge to do so. For more on my campaign, read below. Yet the most common question so
- [Don't Let Opportunity Steal Your Success](https://dougthorpe.com/dont-let-opportunity-steal-your-success/): Running a business can be hard. If you start out to turn a hobby or a special interest into a business, you will face a whole lot of challenges. Even as you start to gain momentum and create success, there will be things that can derail your effort. One of the biggest and most complex
- [Rating and Ranking Employees - Yikes!](https://dougthorpe.com/rating-and-ranking-employees-yikes/): The month of January not only starts the new year, but it serves to end the old one. For many businesses, January sends HR folks and Managers into a frenzy trying to finalize employee reviews, ratings and rankings for the entire staff. There are score sheets, narratives, interviews, and 'coaching sessions' done to inform employees
- [Confessions from the Coach – August 2022](https://dougthorpe.com/management-issues/): It’s time for another “Confessions from the Coach” edition. I like to periodically recap hot topics bubbling up from my coaching experiences, discussions, and outcomes. I don’t do this to break any levels of trust and confidence with my clients, but rather as a thematic public service to my audience. What I’ll share here are
- [Ukraine Invaded by Madman Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/ukranian-invaded-by-madman/): A Leadership Fail This past week, the world witnessed the senseless invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces led by madman Vladimir Putin. His deranged vision for seizing control of Ukraine was met with harsh criticism and strong tactical resistance. Global allies rallied to rebuke his moves. The whole tragic affair, whose outcome is yet decided,
- [Employers - Have You Been Ghosted?](https://dougthorpe.com/employers-have-you-been-ghosted/): The job market keeps getting weirder. Employers and hiring managers are now, more than ever, reporting 'ghosting' as the new normal. What do we mean? In popular street slang, being 'ghosted' in a relationship means never hearing from him/her again. Texts, calls, and emails go unanswered. The other party becomes a 'ghost.' Even though you
- [You're On Mute](https://dougthorpe.com/youre-on-mute/): It's a familiar phrase that has rapidly risen to the top of our vocabulary while we attempt to engage and conduct business remotely. Zoom, Teams, Google Spaces, and Slack have risen to the top of the heap for connecting these days. Yet often as the session opens up, someone has that little red "X" showing
- [Ever Hear of the Tall Poppy Syndrome?](https://dougthorpe.com/ever-hear-of-the-tall-poppy-syndrome/): The Tall Poppy Syndrome (TPS) is something that has been spoken of for centuries. The picture is of a field of poppies. As you look out, there will be a few poppies growing inches above the others. In society, we have tall poppies sprout up in every generation. These are the innovators, the visionaries, and
- [Next Level, New Devil](https://dougthorpe.com/next-level-new-devil/): As people go through life's journey, there is often wonder about why new chapters create new challenges. If you are on some kind of career path, you work hard at one job only to get moved to another. The success you build in one role usually involves overcoming various issues. The solutions you find become
- [Procedures? We Don't Need No Stinkin' Procedures](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-procedures/): Managers and leaders at all levels rely on process and procedure to execute scalable and sustainable delivery of the work they do.
- [Don't Be a Squirrel When It Comes to Decision Making](https://dougthorpe.com/dont-be-a-squirrel-when-it-comes-to-decision-making/): Where I live we have a large population of squirrels. These are ferril critters who run, jump, dig in flower beds, and swing in the trees. Sadly, when you drive thru the neighborhoods, it is not uncommon to find dead squirrels on the road. Why? Well, if you watch one of the spunky guys run
- [Do You Have an Employment Contract, Really...](https://dougthorpe.com/do-your-have-an-employment-contract-really/): In a series of recent discussions, I was reminded of the need for one of the most basic of all employment matters. The employment contract. NO, I am not talking about an actual written, legal document, although those are handy in many situations. Rather I am talking about having a very detailed discussion with every
- [Ditch the Emerald City: Why True Leaders Step Out From the Curtain](https://dougthorpe.com/ditch-the-emerald-city-why-true-leaders-step-out-from-the-curtain/): The Wizard of Oz may have been pulling levers and projecting smoke and mirrors, but that wouldn't make him a very effective leader. In today's dynamic world, the "man behind the curtain" approach simply doesn't work. True leaders understand that inspiration stems from visibility, trust from approachability, and connection from relatability. Just like Dorothy needed
- [Leading the Charge: Action vs. Reaction in Leadership Directives](https://dougthorpe.com/leading-the-charge-action-vs-reaction-in-leadership-directives/): When it comes to being a great Leader, power of words can tip the scales between proactive dynamism and knee-jerk reactivity. A leader's directives, those crucial pronouncements that guide and motivate, hold the potential to ignite transformative action or trigger a defensive scramble. Understanding the difference between these two outcomes is fundamental to fostering a
- [Understanding the Big Five Personality Traits](https://dougthorpe.com/understanding-the-big-five-personality-traits/): Executive Leadership Development frequently turns to various forms of personality assessment to help leaders better understand their view of the world. As we grow and mature, we ‘evolve’ into core beliefs, values, preferences, and motives. The blend of these factors makes up our ‘personality.’ With that comes the inevitable conflict of realizing what we believe
- [Why Do You Do It?](https://dougthorpe.com/why-do-you-do-it/): One of the most common questions I get from people is, "Why do you do what you do?" They're genuinely curious why I've dedicated my life to executive coaching and podcasting. And it's a valid question. Especially nowadays when there are thousands of coaches and new podcasts springing up every month. The answer is simple...
- [Is Your Brand Message Doing What It Needs to Be Doing?](https://dougthorpe.com/is-your-brand-message-doing-what-it-needs-to-be-doing/): Your brand message is the core of your business and it’s essential to ensure that it is doing exactly what it needs to be doing. In today’s world of advertising, having a strong brand message is crucial for your business to thrive and stand apart from the competition. Assessing your brand is an essential step
- [Should a Leader Challenge or Disobey Orders from Higher Authorities?](https://dougthorpe.com/should-a-leader-challenge-or-disobey-orders-from-higher-authorities/): Leadership is often described as the art of influencing others to achieve a common goal. Leaders are expected to have great vision, superb communication skills, and impeccable execution abilities. However, even the greatest leaders find themselves under the authority of someone else. So, what happens when a leader is given an order that conflicts with
- [Making the Move from Corporate to Entrepreneur: Challenges, Rewards, and What to Think About](https://dougthorpe.com/from-corporate-to-entrepreneur/): The traditional career path of climbing the ladder in a corporate job may seem like a safe option, but in recent years, more and more people are choosing to take the leap and pursue entrepreneurship. While there are certainly challenges to starting your own business, the rewards can be significant, from being your own boss
- [Fix Your Why - Creating Business Goals Using Billy J. Ryan’s Approach](https://dougthorpe.com/fix-your-why/): Have you read Billy J. Ryan’s "Fix Your Why" and you want to make your company the best it can be? By aligning goals for your business with an established business strategy, setting goals helps keep everyone on your team focused on the big picture while encouraging smart decision-making among employees during daily operations. 1.
- [Holistic Coaching: Empowering Individuals to Achieve Wholeness](https://dougthorpe.com/holistic-coaching/): In today's fast-paced and demanding world, individuals often find themselves seeking a sense of balance and fulfillment in their lives. Holistic coaching emerges as a transformative approach that guides individuals towards achieving overall well-being by addressing various aspects of their lives, including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. Unlike traditional coaching that focuses on specific
- [The Art of Management Run Businesses: A Comprehensive Guide](https://dougthorpe.com/the-art-of-management-run-businesses-a-comprehensive-guide/): In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of business, management plays a pivotal role in determining the success or failure of an organization. Management-run businesses, where a team of experienced and qualified professionals oversees operations, have emerged as a prevalent and effective model for achieving organizational goals. This article delves into the intricacies of management-run businesses,
- [Volume vs. Value: The Constant Balancing Act We Face in Our Work](https://dougthorpe.com/volume-vs-value-the-constant-balancing-act-we-face-in-our-work/): In the fast-paced, results-driven world we live in, it's easy to fall into the trap of prioritizing quantity over quality. We get caught up in the churn of generating outputs, ticking tasks off our lists, and chasing deadlines, often losing sight of the true value we're creating in the process. This struggle between volume and
- [The Biggest Changes in Executive Coaching Since COVID](https://dougthorpe.com/the-biggest-changes-in-executive-coaching/): The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in the world of executive coaching, transforming the way coaches interact with their clients and influencing the overall scope of coaching services. Here are some of the most notable changes that have emerged since the pandemic: Rise of Virtual Coaching: The pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual
- [Unmasking the Saboteurs Within: Identifying and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs](https://dougthorpe.com/unmasking-the-saboteurs-within-identifying-and-overcoming-limiting-beliefs/): Have you ever dreamt of something big, a goal burning bright, only to have a little voice whisper, "Not for you," snuffing out that flame before it could flicker? Chances are, you've encountered a limiting belief – a sneaky internal thought that acts as a mental roadblock, preventing us from reaching our full potential. What
- [From Spark to Flame: Keeping Your Business Hot While It Scales](https://dougthorpe.com/from-spark-to-flame-keeping-your-business-hot-while-it-scales/): Overcoming Challenges as Your Business Scales As any entrepreneur knows, building momentum is exhilarating! But riding that wave of success isn't without its challenges. Here are some of the biggest hurdles you might face and how to navigate them: 1. Scaling Without Sacrificing Quality: Stumbling block: Expanding too quickly can lead to operational inefficiencies, product/service inconsistencies,
- [Building Your Dual Identity: Strategies for Blending Personal Brand and Leadership in Business](https://dougthorpe.com/develop-trust-inspire-vision/): In today's competitive landscape, effective leadership isn't just about driving results; it's about building trust, inspiring vision, and establishing yourself as a recognized authority. This is where the concept of personal branding for leaders comes into play. It's about crafting a unique and authentic image that resonates with your audience, both within and outside your
- [The Humble Showoff: Mastering the Art of Leading with Knowledge (Without Being a Jerk)](https://dougthorpe.com/the-humble-showoff-mastering-the-art-of-leading-with-knowledge-without-being-a-jerk/): In the grand theatre of leadership, there's a delicate dance playing out on the main stage: the display of expertise. On one hand, we have the confident captains, radiating knowledge like beacons, guiding their teams through uncharted waters. On the other, lurk the know-it-alls, tripping over their own pronouncements, leaving trails of deflated egos and
- [Beyond the Big Stage: Crafting Your Leadership Legacy One Moment at a Time](https://dougthorpe.com/beyond-the-big-stage-crafting-your-leadership-legacy-one-moment-at-a-time/): We often imagine leadership as a grand production. Spotlight moments, heroic decisions, and sweeping pronouncements come to mind. But what if the key to building a truly impactful reputation isn't found in these blockbuster scenes? What if it lies in the quiet, seemingly insignificant interactions that fill our daily lives? The truth is, leadership isn't
- [The Tyranny of Perfection: Why Striving for 100% Can Cost You More Than It's Worth](https://dougthorpe.com/perfection/): In a world obsessed with hustle culture and #winning, the pressure to achieve perfection is omnipresent. We push ourselves to the limit, fueled by the belief that anything less than perfect is failure. But what if this relentless pursuit of flawlessness is actually holding us back? What if, in our quest for the unattainable 100%,
- [12 Critical Questions to Ignite Your Team in the New Year: Go Beyond Goals, Embrace Ownership](https://dougthorpe.com/12-critical-questions-to-ignite-your-team-in-the-new-year-go-beyond-goals-embrace-ownership/): The new year stretches before us, a blank canvas full of possibilities. As a business owner, you're likely brimming with plans and goals, but are you tapping into the full potential of your team? Setting objectives is crucial, but it's only the first brushstroke. To unleash the masterpiece, we need to delve deeper, fostering personal
- [Facing the Dragons: Why Leadership Starts with Confrontation, Not Control](https://dougthorpe.com/facing-the-dragons-why-leadership-starts-with-confrontation-not-control/): We, the captains of our professional and community ships, spend our days steering, navigating, and occasionally throwing out life preservers. We're problem solvers, decision-makers, and cheerleaders, fueled by the noble ambition to make things better. But in the pursuit of progress, one crucial truth can get swallowed by the waves: you can't fix what you
- [Stepping Up, Stepping Out: Trust vs. Belief in Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/stepping-up-stepping-out-trust-vs-belief-in-leadership/): Let's face it, folks. Leading a team isn't about holding all the answers; it's about knowing who does. And that, my friends, takes an intricate dance between two key players: trust and belief. They might sound like two sides of the same coin, but their roles in your leadership tango are distinctly different. Trust is
- [Deck the Halls with Digital Baubles: How Christmas Has Gone From Hearth to Hashtag](https://dougthorpe.com/deck-the-halls-with-digital-baubles-how-christmas-has-gone-from-hearth-to-hashtag/): The scent of pine needles dances on the crisp December air, carols jingle from unseen speakers, and twinkly lights paint the houses in a festive kaleidoscope. Christmas, that most magical time of year, is upon us once again. But beneath the glossy wrapping paper and the cheerful bustle, a quiet question stirs: has the way
- [Holiday Heartburn: When Festive Cheer Hits Emotional Turbulence](https://dougthorpe.com/holiday-heartburn-when-festive-cheer-hits-emotional-turbulence/): Ah, the holidays. Fairy lights twinkle, sugar plum fairies dance, and carols fill the air. Yet, beneath the shimmering veneer of joyous expectation, lurks an undeniable truth: the holidays can be an emotional rollercoaster, plunging us into unexpected valleys of sadness, anxiety, and even anger. Before you feel like Scrooge in a sea of Santas,
- [Making Things Bigger Than They Really Are](https://dougthorpe.com/making-things-bigger-than-they-really-are/): What if everything you were given was turned into something far more tragic?
- [Building a Strong Management-Run Team for Business Owners](https://dougthorpe.com/management-run/): As a business owner, it's essential to have a team that can manage tasks and projects independently. While it's easy to micromanage your employees, it's crucial to have a management-run team who can handle the responsibilities of their roles without constant supervision. Creating a strong management-run team can help you achieve success, reduce your workload,
- [5 Mistakes Most New Managers Make - And How to Avoid Them](https://dougthorpe.com/5-mistakes-most-new-managers-make-and-how-to-avoid-them/): For anyone who is now working in their first-ever management role, you know things can be tough. No doubt you have already made a few mistakes.
- [The Ultimate Guide: How to Identify and Implement Change in Any Organization](https://dougthorpe.com/identify-and-implement-change/): As a CEO or a business owner, you probably know how difficult it is to identify when changes are needed, and then how to implement them effectively. Maybe your company's growth has stagnated, or your sales have plateaued. Whatever the case may be, you need to find ways to overcome these obstacles and achieve the
- [Change Management: Aura+Attitude+Angle](https://dougthorpe.com/change-management-auraattitudeangle/): Let’s consider the proactive response in terms of job seekers needing new ways to accomplish greater things. Rather than suffer the impact of interview rejects or having no call-backs, persons between jobs need to consider the cause and effect of behaviors and attitudes they bring to the hiring process.
- [Understanding What Management-Run Business Means](https://dougthorpe.com/understanding-what-management-run-business-means/): Management-run businesses have become increasingly popular in recent years, as business owners recognize the benefits of delegating and collaborating with a team of experienced professionals. Many managers and entrepreneurs are acutely aware that managing a business is much more than just making sure the bottom line is profitable. It involves developing long-term strategies, leading teams,
- [This is a Football...](https://dougthorpe.com/this-is-a-football/): The story is now legend of Vince Lombardi’s first practice session after his team suffered a significant loss. Players and coaches were wondering what area of their team would become the focus of the practice. Would it be the defense, the offense, running, passing or kicking? No, Lombardi said they were going to focus on
- [Power Networking Ideas](https://dougthorpe.com/power-networking-ideas/): This month at JMS we are going to be focusing on networking and relationship building. Feedback I routinely receive says that most people struggle with the basics of getting out and doing effective networking. During November, we are going to: Hear from several great speakers about their tried and proven methods of building a better
- [Finding True North](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-true-north/): Ask a room full of people to close their eyes and point North. When everyone opens their eyes, fingers are pointing all over the place. (Try this some time; it’s a great ice breaker). The message is that “north”, while being geographically available for specific identification and location using the right equipment, can conjure various
- [If the Phone Doesn't Ring It's Me](https://dougthorpe.com/if-the-phone-doesnt-ring-its-me/): Jimmy Buffet wrote some great lyrics with this theme. While he was trying to entertain, there is a more divine message here for those who look to God and trust in His ways. Often we struggle each day for direction, purpose, and meaning. Things happening around us do not always make much sense. In the
- [Are you pregnant?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-pregnant/): When you hear the question “are you pregnant?”, what comes to mind? The key word might be expectation. I recently shared this topic with my group at JMS. The concept and question is one I credit to Tony Evans. Getting ‘pregnant’ creates a certain kind of expectation. What will it be? How is my life
- [“Sun Spots” in Today’s Hiring Market](https://dougthorpe.com/sun-spots-in-todays-hiring-market/): Lots of buzz asking the question “is the recession over?” If we focus just on area hiring trends, I would say the answer to that question is “I am not sure”. What I am seeing is something I choose to call “sun spots’ of hiring activity. That means there are flares of activity here and
- [More On Sales Minded Job Search](https://dougthorpe.com/more-on-sales-minded-job-search/): Yesterday we talked about creating a Value Proposition. Today, let’s break that down a little more. First we need to zero in on your core purpose; “here’s what I am about”. Can you explain that in about 3 to 10 seconds? This is not a “pitch”. This is a direct communication of who and what
- [What is a "job"?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-a-job/): This week at JMS I explored the origin of the word “job”. I was not happy with what I found. The most consistent references point to a French root word “gobbet”. This translates into morsel or “piece”. Hence a “job” is a “piece” of work. It struck me that it also suggests a piece of
- [Are We Heading in the Right Direction?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-we-heading-in-the-right-direction/): Recent events in my marketplace, main street employment organization called JMS seem to suggest the economy has taken a pause from its downward spiral. Job seeker landings are on the rise. Could it be that employers are starting to realize the "wait and see" strategy needs to be abandoned? Are the actual market forces making
- [Are you really a "people person"?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-really-a-people-person/): When I coach and counsel job seekers, I am often confronted with the age-old term "people person". What is that exactly? I have a friend who is an HR professional. He tells me they use the tag line "Oh good. If you are a people person, we can pay you five people a week. Will
- [It's HOT Here](https://dougthorpe.com/its-hot-here/): OK maybe global warming is on the rebound. At least in the greater Houston area, we are experiencing hotter than usual days with no rain whatsoever. As we say here in Texas, "even the jackrabbits are carrying canteens". I've been trying to act like none of this is happening though. I've been doing yard work
- [Quality Relationships - Building Your Personal Network](https://dougthorpe.com/quality-relationships/): The age old wisdom we heard when we were kids and the same stuff we tell our kids 'if you want a friend, be a friend' is all the more compelling today. Why? The conditions of the current job market and the business climate that has impacted those jobs both cry out for a change. I
- [30-Second Info-Bomb](https://dougthorpe.com/30-second-info-bomb/): Job seekers usually get introduced to the famous "30-second commercial". The logic is that you need a solid, to-the-point intro pitch in the event you meet someone of importance with whom you would like to connect. Further we are told that people only have 10 to 20 seconds to make a good first impression. So
- [The Paradox of Success: When Too Much Achievement Becomes a Burden](https://dougthorpe.com/the-paradox-of-success-when-too-much-achievement-becomes-a-burden/): Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your own success? Surprisingly, achieving too much can actually become a burden rather than a blessing. In the pursuit of success, we often set high goals for ourselves and work tirelessly to achieve them. However, once we accomplish these goals, we may find ourselves feeling unsatisfied or constantly chasing
- [Leadership: Don't Settle for Something](https://dougthorpe.com/dont-settle-for-something/): Don't settle for somethng
- [Can’t Remember the Punch Line?](https://dougthorpe.com/cant-remember-the-punch-line/): First, this thing I am calling your story is different from the traditional “elevator pitch”. Basically, I hate those.
- [Are You a Happy Pig?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-a-happy-pig/): No, not trying to be mean. Yesterday I shared with my audience at JMS, the story about the "Pig of Happiness" by Edward Monkton. This is a short story written and illustrated as a gift card, but the storyline is profound. It is about a pig who decides to stop being like all other pigs.
- [Sales Minded job Search - Revisited](https://dougthorpe.com/sales-minded-job-search-revisited/): Last week while speaking at a conference, one attendee took me to task when I talked about having a sales minded approach to your job search and your interview. Where the discussion went then is not important right now, but I confess it made me think a bit. OK…time’s up. No, I am not changing
- [Fannie and Freddie; Not Just Distant Relatives](https://dougthorpe.com/fannie-and-freddie-not-just-distant-relatives/): All of the market hype and shock that ran its course last week first suggested these two behemoths may be headed for extinction. Not so fast. The Treasury Secretary ran to the rescue opening the Fed window and relieving the steam from the pressure cooker. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are so-called "government sponsored entities"
- [July 4th](https://dougthorpe.com/july-4th/): OK today IS the day. July 4th, 2008. Great day of celebration, family, food, fireworks, and fun. Most of my gang was here today including new in-laws who joined our family by virtue of a beautiful wedding held May 31. One of our sons married a sweet and wonderful soul mate of a bride. This
- [Independence Eve - Is That A Holiday too?](https://dougthorpe.com/independence-eve-is-that-a-holiday-too/): Tomorrow is July 4th, US Independence Day. Most (not all) US citizens know and understand the meaning of July 4th. Children get excited about fireworks, parades, picnics, ice cream, watermelons, soda, and funny characters dressed up in garb of red, white and blue. But have you ever thought about what our forefathers may have been thinking
- [LinkedIn HandsOn Workshop](https://dougthorpe.com/linkedin-handson-workshop/): Today was the first edition of my newest workshop format, live laboratory experience using your personal LinkedIn account for training and learning. The outline still followed my book “12.5 Ways to Get Ahead on LinkedIn”. The workshop used that outline to make each attendee’s profile stronger and more effective. The good folks at Houston’s campus
- [LinkedIn Has Changed - Are You Up To Speed?](https://dougthorpe.com/linkedin-has-changed/): The LinkedIn system has changed. There are new ways to use the database and the networking tools. Join other professionals for an informative and practical half-day, hands-on workshop to learn more about LinkedIn. 'Click here for more info' Doug Thorpe Social Media: Small business owners will hit an invisible wall that can stall the growth
- [Challenging People](https://dougthorpe.com/challenging-people/): When was the last time you dealt with a "challenging personality"? We all have our stories about the store clerk or the person ahead of us in the checkout lane or the co-worker in the cube next door. We regale ourselves in telling these stories on and on when the audience is right. Or do
- [Supply Chain to the Heavenlies](https://dougthorpe.com/supply-chain-to-the-heavenlies/): In John Chapter 1, the last verse is Jesus' words saying "surely you will see Heaven open up and you will see Angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man". Now that is a supply chain like no one has ever seen before. This host of Angels at constant work coming and
- [Vision Building](https://dougthorpe.com/vision-building/): Small businesses need to think about creating or maintaining their vision. Many new companies start with a fairly well written vision statement. In the beginning, it is easy to harness the energy of the creation process and jot down the key points that are front-of-mind while the building is happening. But as time marches on,
- [Jim Jacobus at JMS "Value Proposition"](https://dougthorpe.com/jim-jacobus-at-jms-value-proposition/): September 2009 - Take another look at this week’s session at Jobs Ministry Southwest. http://bit.ly/122WZX Doug Thorpe Social Media: Small business owners will hit an invisible wall that can stall the growth of the company. The key reason there is a wall is that owners need to shift from manager to leader. The question is,
- [I Can Control Gas Prices !!!](https://dougthorpe.com/i-can-control-gas-prices/): Ok, not really. I just think it's odd that no sooner than I started my blog with a mention of record high gas prices, PRICES STARTED TO DROP. Yippeee. I'll keep going if you all don't mind. $9 per barrel drop in 10 days. Pretty sweet. BTW did you know the proverbial barrel of oil
- [Achieving Success through Purposeful Action: Why Moving with Intent Matters](https://dougthorpe.com/achieving-success-through-purposeful-action-why-moving-with-intent-matters/): In today's fast-paced world, success seems to be defined by constant motion and achievement. But have you ever stopped to question whether the actions you're taking are purposeful or simply keeping you busy? In this article, we delve into the importance of moving with intent and how it can lead to true success in various
- [The Real Power Behind Doing a Strategic Plan for Your Small Business](https://dougthorpe.com/strategic-planning/): As a small business owner or entrepreneur, you're always trying to stay ahead of the curve and outperform your competition. One of the best ways to achieve this is through a strategic plan. A well-constructed strategic plan can define your business's goals and provide a roadmap to help you achieve your objectives. However, not all
- [Understanding KPIs and OKRs: What Are They and How Do They Differ?](https://dougthorpe.com/understanding-kpis-and-okrs-what-are-they-and-how-do-they-differ/): Businesses need to set goals and track progress to ensure success. However, there are different metrics that companies use to measure their performance. Two popular methodologies are KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and OKRs (Objectives and Key Results). While they both provide insights into a company's progress and they sound very similar to one another, they
- [3 Simple Tools for "Too Busy" People](https://dougthorpe.com/3-simple-tools-for-too-busy-people/): We all get busy. Some consider it a badge of honor to always be busy. Yet when you really look at the results from a crazy busy person, there is not always the outcome you might expect. The desire to be busy comes from several contributing factors. I am basing this on years of executive
- [Finding Time as a Small Business Owner: The Top Challenges and Solutions](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-time-as-a-small-business-owner-the-top-challenges-and-solutions/): Or 5 Reasons You Suck at Owning a Business (OK too strong) Small business owners are known for their tireless work ethic, constantly putting in long hours and sacrificing their personal time for the sake of their businesses. While working hard is necessary for success, it is also crucial for business owners to find a
- [7 Proven Ways Reframing Can Elevate Your Logic and Deduction Skills](https://dougthorpe.com/decision-making/): You’ve read the self-help books, you’ve attended the seminars, but you’re still finding yourself paralyzed when it comes to making major decisions. Sound familiar? Well, the solution might be simpler than you think. It may lie in a process called reframing, a technique that revolves around shifting your perspective to unlock your decision-making power. "Change
- [Navigating the Formal and Informal Organization within Your Company](https://dougthorpe.com/formal-and-informal-organization/): In every company, there are two types of organizations that operate simultaneously: formal and informal. One is officially recognized, while the other is more organic and often difficult to detect. Understanding the differences between these two organizations is crucial for managers and CEOs, as it can help them navigate complex social structures, increase communication and
- [7 Vital Tactics for Managers to Have Constructive Difficult Discussions](https://dougthorpe.com/7-vital-tactics-for-managers-to-have-constructive-difficult-discussions/): As a manager or a CEO, it is only normal to have that occasional conversation that seems to linger in your mind for days or even weeks. Difficult conversations are hardly soothing, but they can be remarkably productive if handled correctly. Crucial conversations are inevitable in every organizational structure, but with proper preparation, the outcome
- [Sunday Sun: Stop Putting Your Hand on the Stove](https://dougthorpe.com/sunday-sun-stop-putting-your-hand-on-the-stove/): Avoid These 7 Common Mistakes Business Owners Make Repeatedly When I was a child, I was curious, always have been. There were times the curiosity got the best of me. Like when Mom kept saying don't touch the hot stove. All I thought about was the mystery of what would happen. I didn't know what
- [The Top 7 Things That Business Owners Worry About Today](https://dougthorpe.com/the-top-7-things-that-business-owners-worry-about-today/): Owning a business comes with a lot of responsibilities. Business owners have to juggle numerous tasks such as keeping their employees happy, meeting sales goals, and increasing profits, all while managing their personal lives. While these tasks are essential, they’re also some of the top reasons why business owners worry. As I started researching this
- [Sunday Sun: Confessions of a Boomer Dad](https://dougthorpe.com/sunday-sun-confessions-of-a-boomer-dad/): Where are we really going? Ok, I probably lost you at the title. I am not ashamed to admit I am a Boomer, but truthfully I often feel like a Millennial trapped in this body. That's a whole other story, not for this post. But here we go anyway. Over the past couple of weeks,
- [Sunday Sun: Thinking About My Mentors and Being One](https://dougthorpe.com/sunday-sun-thinking-about-my-mentors/): After reading an article from Gino Wickman where he reflected on his mentors, I was immediately sent down memory lane looking back on mine. If you've followed my blog or paodcast for long, you likely have heard me tell the story of lifelong mentorship. Being raised the only child of a hard working single Mom,
- [Why You Should Consider a Peer to Peer Advisory Group for Personal Growth](https://dougthorpe.com/why-you-should-consider-a-peer-to-peer-advisory-group-for-personal-growth/): Personal growth is an essential aspect of our lives. We all want to be the best versions of ourselves, achieve our goals and lead a fulfilling life. But sometimes, it's easy to feel lost, overwhelmed or unsure of where to turn for guidance or support. This is where a peer to peer advisory group can
- [Uncover Your Why with the WHY.os Assessment](https://dougthorpe.com/uncover-your-why-with-the-why-os-assessment/): Unleash Your Leadership Superpower You've been told that to become a more effective leader, you need to take certain actions. But despite your efforts, you're not seeing the desired results. The pain of striving for success, only to fall short, can be overwhelming. It's time to break free from ineffective approaches and discover a new
- [The Power of Accountability in Leadership: How to Make it Positive](https://dougthorpe.com/accountability/): Accountability is an essential aspect of effective leadership. When leaders prioritize accountability in the workplace, it can lead to increased productivity, improved team dynamics, and overall success. Unfortunately, accountability is often perceived as negative, associated with micromanagement and blame. However, it doesn't have to be this way. In fact, leaders can create a positive and
- [How to Align Your Family and Business for a More Fulfilling Life](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-align-your-family-and-business-for-a-more-fulfilling-life/): Today on Leadership Powered by Common Sense, we're joined by Aaron Shelley, who will teach you the crucial steps to establish a shared purpose for your family and business, paving the way for a healthy work-life balance. Aaron's journey is one of learning from both his business and personal experiences, and he'll share his invaluable
- [What's Next?](https://dougthorpe.com/whats-next/): In the political drama "West Wing", President Bartlet usually ended an episode with this question, "What's next?" Knowing what is next for your business is a crucial choice that affects its success. Running a business comes with a lot of challenges. It’s a constant balancing act of making sure your business is running smoothly while
- [Situation-Based Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/situation-based-leadership/): By Lane Sloan, Silver Fox Advisors Leadership does not have a simple formula for every situation. A lot of the leadership theory comes from academicians studying a formulation of their leadership model from observing the real world. They test the model with empirical research to determine results on performance. Then, the outcomes are put into
- [Be a Coffee Bean: The Power of Positive Thinking for Leaders and Entrepreneurs](https://dougthorpe.com/be-a-coffee-bean-the-power-of-positive-thinking-for-leaders-and-entrepreneurs/): As an entrepreneur or leader, there are bound to be times when you face adversity and challenges that seem insurmountable. Those are the times when you need to be a coffee bean - the times when you must transform the situation into something positive and beneficial. This blog post will explore the power of positive
- [Know Your Why](https://dougthorpe.com/know-your-why/): As human beings, we are all driven by something. Whether it's a desire for success, a need for connection, or a passion for creativity, our motivations and driving forces are what shape us into the individuals we are today. But have you ever taken the time to truly understand what your driving force is? Have
- [Honoring the Heroes in Our Hearts: A USA Memorial Day Tribute](https://dougthorpe.com/honoring-the-heroes-in-our-hearts-a-usa-memorial-day-tribute/): Every year, we have the opportunity to remember and pay tribute to the brave soldiers who have served our country and lost their lives in the line of duty. Memorial Day is more than just a three-day weekend, it’s a time to reflect and honor the ultimate sacrifice that our heroes have made for the
- [Using Maslow's Hierarchy to Lead Better Teams](https://dougthorpe.com/maslows-hierarchy-for-leadership/): To fully understand your team's capability, you need to assess each individual's needs, priorities, and motivators. This fundamental approach is why Maslow's hierarchy of needs, a basic concept in psychology, can be a valuable tool for you to lead your team better.
- [The Power of Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace](https://dougthorpe.com/the-power-of-emotional-intelligence-in-the-workplace/): As a business owner or executive, you know how important it is to have a team that works well together. But did you know that emotional intelligence could be the key to unlocking your team's full potential? While technical skills and experience are certainly important, emotional intelligence can make all the difference when it comes
- [What Does it Mean to be a Human-Centric Leader?](https://dougthorpe.com/human-centric/): In today’s fast-paced business world, it’s easy to focus solely on the bottom line. However, the most successful companies realize that their employees are their greatest asset. As a leader, it’s essential to focus on the people who make your organization thrive. Being a human-centric leader means putting employees at the center of everything you
- [What Being a Human-Centric Leader Really Means](https://dougthorpe.com/what-being-a-human-centric-leader-really-means/): In the world of business, being a leader is all about making sound business decisions and achieving success for the company, right? While this may be true to some extent, the most successful leaders today are those who put their employees first. This means creating a work culture that revolves around the needs of the
- [To Be a Great Leader, You Must First Learn to Follow](https://dougthorpe.com/to-be-a-great-leader-you-must-first-learn-to-follow/): Leadership is often associated with being in charge, making decisions, and setting direction for a team or organization. However, what many fail to realize is that becoming a successful leader first requires mastering the art of following. While following may not seem as glamorous as leading, it plays a crucial role in the development of
- [How to Measure the ROI of Executive Coaching or Business Therapy](https://dougthorpe.com/measure-the-return-on-investment-roi-of-executive-coaching/): As a business owner, entrepreneur, or executive, investing in the development of your team is crucial for the success of your organization. Executive coaching is a popular method used to enhance leadership skills, boost productivity, and achieve personal and professional growth. But how do you measure the return on investment (ROI) of executive coaching or
- [Bridging the Gap: How to Overcome Generational Differences at Work](https://dougthorpe.com/bridging-the-gap-between-generations/): The workplace in the 21st century is made up of people from different age groups and generations. Differences in values, communication styles, and work ethics can create a divide that leads to misunderstandings, tension, and conflict. As an owner, entrepreneur, or executive, bridging the generational gap at work is a crucial skill to possess. It
- [The Power of Daily Personal Leadership Performance Reviews](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-doing-the-dance-with-a-daily-download/): Being an effective leader is a constant challenge that requires daily dedication and self-reflection. As owners, entrepreneurs, and executives, we have to make tough decisions every day that can impact not only our businesses but also the people who work for us. To ensure that our leadership skills are up to par and that we're
- [The Power of Business Therapy: How It Can Boost Your Company's Success](https://dougthorpe.com/the-power-of-business-therapy-how-it-can-boost-your-companys-success/): Managing a business can be a rewarding but challenging task. Whether you're an owner, entrepreneur, or executive, you understand the pressure that comes with keeping the company running smoothly. With this comes burnout, confusion, and stress that can affect not only you but also your team's productivity and morale. That's where business therapy comes in.
- [Business Therapy: Unpacking the Concept of Coaching for Entrepreneurs](https://dougthorpe.com/business-therapy/): As an entrepreneur, launching and growing a business is one of the most challenging tasks you will ever tackle. While passion, grit, and sheer determination are all essential for success, they can only take you so far. That's where business therapy comes in. A business coach can serve as your guide and sounding board, helping
- [Power, Positioning, and Posturing - Leading a Business](https://dougthorpe.com/power-positioning-and-posturing-leading-a-business/): If you are currently sitting in a position of authority leading a business, whether you built it, acquired it, or worked your rosy little arse off to get there, you still have choices to make every day. In order to achieve the best possible results with your business and your team, there are a few
- [Change Your Default Setting](https://dougthorpe.com/change-default-setting/): Growth is a never-ending process and it starts with us growing as individuals before we can grow and transform our lives and businesses.
- [Solving People Problems by Leveraging Process](https://dougthorpe.com/solving-people-problems-by-leveraging-process/): “How many people work for you?” the CEO was asked. “About half of them,” was the reply. You don’t have to be the CEO to relate. If you are a manager, project manager, business owner, or team lead, you probably find yourself regularly challenged by the differences in your team members. Some are rock stars.
- [Running a Business - Cover Your Bases](https://dougthorpe.com/running-a-business-cover-your-bases/): For those who have ventured into owning a business, good luck! I mean that seriously, not facetiously. It takes a special person to commit to becoming a successful entrepreneur. There are just so many darn details that can overwhelm you. And, once you get past the start-up phase, you turn to a growth phase. Then
- [<strong>Knowing When It’s Time to Sell Your Business</strong>](https://dougthorpe.com/knowing-when-its-time-to-sell-your-business/): Is it time to put your company up for sale? Whether you’re just assessing the health of the market and your operation or you’re actively looking to make a sale and retire or move on to other ventures, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Doug Thorpe shares a few here. Assess
- [Choices: Wise or Foolish?](https://dougthorpe.com/choices-wise-or-foolish/): It’s funny to me how when all is said and done, life’s outcomes are a function of the choices we make.
- [Sharpening the Saw](https://dougthorpe.com/sharpening-the-saw/): I like Steven Covey's 7th habit, sharpening the saw. At first I had trouble getting the word picture, but that was long ago. Since then I have become a voracious reader. I find this expands the mind and keeps the age-creep from setting in. Anyway, some of my most recent main courses have been Jeffrey
- [Put the Spinach in the Brownie](https://dougthorpe.com/put-the-spinach-in-the-brownie/): Raising kids is one of life's big moments (lots of them). Anyone who has been a parent knows that we want our kids to eat healthy food. But the best foods for proper nourishment and vitamins are not always the most appealing. Or fun to eat. Take broccoli and spinach for example. What kid really
- [Leadership LIVE! 2023](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-live-2023/): Yesterday marked the start of a new program I am offering. I call it Leadership LIVE! It is a one-hour workshop, totally free to attend. During the workshop, I and a special guest will be talking about hot topics in business and management. If you join in, we'll take questions and do some on-the-spot coaching
- [Merry Christmas, Happy New Year](https://dougthorpe.com/merry-christmas-happy-new-year/): To all my friends, colleagues, clients, and followers Here's wishing you a very joyous holiday season, whichever celebration you enjoy. My heart is full of 2022 blessings and opportunities. For me, it has been a good year. Not one totally void of challenges, but it is in those trials we grow. You have blessed my
- [An Easy Strategy for Making Better Decisions](https://dougthorpe.com/an-easy-strategy-for-making-better-decisions/): At year-end, we all begin the process of making decisions about the new year. This is especially true if you own a business or are responsible for a work team inside a larger enterprise. It's been well documented that highly successful people tend to make decisions quickly - and they rarely change their minds. Do
- [Happy Thanksgiving 2022](https://dougthorpe.com/happy-thanksgiving-2022/): Here's a simple note to say THANK YOU. You are loved. I appreciate each and every one of you who follows my blog or listens to my podcast. YOU are the reason I do what I do to help equip better leaders.
- [I Don't Know What He/She Does](https://dougthorpe.com/what-he-she-does/): There are no words that ring more sadly in our work world than when a boss is asked about an employee and says those words. I know. It happened to me once. I had just completed a 19-month assignment leading a large team of professionals through a tough assignment. We were geographically split and tasked
- [We Need to Eliminate Command and Control](https://dougthorpe.com/we-need-to-eliminate-command-and-control/): I never thought I'd say those words. Being a former commissioned officer in the U.S. Army, command and control were integral to my success. The ability to stand on the rank and position I held helped direct troop movement and engagement. Fortunately for most of those in my command, I always commanded from more of
- [Business Leaders - Plan, Equip, Train and Lead](https://dougthorpe.com/military-mantra/): There is a mantra used by the U.S. military to describe the essential framework for building an effective military presence. It’s a simple formula: Plan, Equip, Train and Lead.
- [Change the Climate Before You Try Changing the Culture](https://dougthorpe.com/do-you-need-to-change-the-climate-before-you-try-changing-the-culture/): Recently, during a weekend of watching college football, I heard a commentator describe a situation at one school's athletic program. Though the university is a good one, the football program had been mired for years in mediocre success, often barely rising about a 500 season (win half, lose half). Two years ago a new coach
- [What About Thinking Both Critically and Creatively?](https://dougthorpe.com/critical-thinking/): Talking to business leaders of all types is one of my life's greatest blessings. I hear so many wonderful things that are happening in businesses both large and small. Yet there are things I hear sometimes that give me pause. One of those key topics is the weakness or absence of critical thinking. It seems
- [Let the Haters Hate, Part II](https://dougthorpe.com/let-haters-hate/): Several years ago I wrote a post titled "Let the Haters Hate." It was written in terms of standing in a role of leadership and having those around you who may or may not be directly reporting to you take shots at the things you say and do. If you're going to be a leader,
- [Can We Apply a Broad Brush to the Remote Work Problem?](https://dougthorpe.com/can-we-apply-a-broad-brush-to-the-remote-work-problem/): The following content was contributed by Tom Healy who is a friend, founder, and co-creator of growth10 and mentumm. Both are national organizations dedicated to leadership growth. Companies both large and small are struggling to answer the question ‘what about returning to work?’ There is simply no one-size-fits-all type answer here. How to solve the
- [What's the Real Key to Creating Accountability?](https://dougthorpe.com/whats-the-real-key-to-creating-accountability/): This question comes up a lot. When you start thinking about accountability, what comes to mind? You have expectations, right? If you run a team or own a business, you want your employees to do the right things, on time, and usually at or under budget. So you set the bar. Then what? If someone
- [May the 4th Be With You](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-wanted/): This article is being written right before July 4th, Independence Day in America. As soon as I pen those words I am hit with a dump truck of irony. I usually enjoy writing my holiday articles where I get to reflect a bit, rejoice in the spirit of the day, and encourage you to celebrate
- [Understanding the New Normal for Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/understanding-the-new-normal-for-leadership/): For too many decades, the word leadership meant a title and a box on an org chart somewhere. Yes, there were people who truly understood leadership and exercised it effectively, but big business managers failed, for the most part, to operate with true leadership principles. Before we move on, remember one thing – leading is
- [Father's Day 2022 - Who's Your Daddy?](https://dougthorpe.com/fathers-day/): This weekend we celebrate Father's DayI realize that has many different meanings for everyone. In my case it is a day to reflect on the collection of dads I had. Let me explain. My Dad died before I was 2 years old. My Mom was wise enough to surround me with male mentors to come
- [Happy Easter 2022](https://dougthorpe.com/happy-easter-2022/): There was this man who claimed to be the Son of God. He taught a TOTALLY new way to live and introduced us to a concept called Heaven, a different afterlife than Judaism taught. He taught us that God is our Father and resides in Heaven, preparing it for us. He said that God wants
- [Who Lights Your Fire?](https://dougthorpe.com/who-lights-your-fire/): This quote from W.B. Yeats is a great reminder for those of us in leadership roles. Let me repeat it : Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire. ~W.B. Yeats When we try to train our team or build a new product or service, education surrounding the details
- [Bold Leader Moves in the Current Market](https://dougthorpe.com/employee-engagement/): With the turmoil in the job market, what has your company or organization done to secure the team you have and attract new talent when the need arises?
- [Leadership Effectiveness Can Improve Using Simple Triggers](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-effectiveness-can-work-on-simple-triggers/): As much as I love all the science, academia, and psychology of leadership development, and believe me I follow a lot of it, I often find the biggest achievements come from simple steps. I call these triggers.
- [Local Business Owner Doug Thorpe Named to NSBA Leadership Council](https://dougthorpe.com/local-business-owner-doug-thorpe-named-to-nsba-leadership-council/): Houston, Texas - Doug Thorpe was recently named to the National Small Business Association (NSBA) Leadership Council. NSBA is the nation’s oldest small-business advocacy organization and operates on a staunchly nonpartisan basis. Doug Thorpe, a recognized leader in the small-business community, joins the NSBA Leadership Council alongside other small-business advocates from across the country as
- [Launching 2022](https://dougthorpe.com/launching-2022/): To wrap up 2021 and boost your launch for 2022, I am sharing some leadership quotes I've collected over the years.
- [Best Boss at Christmas](https://dougthorpe.com/best-bosses/): As we run screaming into the end of the year 2021 (where has this one gone?), it’s always a good time to reflect, regroup, and renew our thinking for the year that is just around the corner. The best bosses I have known use this time to make reflections.
- [We're Grateful for YOU!](https://dougthorpe.com/were-grateful-for-you/): My wish is that you and your family have a chance to fellowship, enjoy one another, and embrace the spirit of thanksgiving.
- [Make Life More Fulfilling: Discover Your Life Purpose](https://dougthorpe.com/make-life-more-fulfilling-discover-your-life-purpose/): Do you wake up each day dreading the idea of spending another day at work? You might even feel the need to be a part of something bigger and more meaningful. If you’ve failed to discover and build your life around your life purpose, you might feel dissatisfied with your life. Determining the purpose of
- [Accountability. What a Concept.](https://dougthorpe.com/accountability-what-a-concept/): Yet who can really define it? Let's take a look at leadership accountability. Google the word and you get some interesting thoughts. Here are a few. Accountability eliminates the time and effort you spend on distracting activities and other unproductive behavior. When you make people accountable for their actions, you're effectively teaching them to value
- [LinkedIn Makes New Launch](https://dougthorpe.com/linkedin-makes-new-launch/): In case you missed it, LinkedIn has launched a whole new dimension to their already global reach for business professionals.
- [Happy November](https://dougthorpe.com/happy-november/): November is a month with many things going on. The month starts off with All Saints Day on the first day of the month, Election Day on the first Tuesday of the month, Veterans Day on November 11th, and of course, Thanksgiving Day on the fourth Thursday of the month followed by the very special day for all retailers, “Black Friday”.
- [Top 10 Essential Leadership Skills](https://dougthorpe.com/top-10-essential-leadership-skills/): It's all about skills in the modern world. It's never been more challenging to be a leader than it is today. Markets and entire industries are changing rapidly. For any leader to be successful, it's important to have the proper skills. There are thousands of books describing good leadership. You can find lists of skills
- [The Customer Is NOT Always Right](https://dougthorpe.com/the-customer-is-not-always-right/): Here's another Win-Win nugget for you to consider. The old saying about "the customer is always right" might be a noble cliché, but it's bad business. Herb Kelleher, the famous founding CEO of Southwest Airlines once told my bank board a story. One day in Dallas a big storm had goofed up all the flights.
- [Become a Better Leader: 4 Steps to Boost Your E.Q.](https://dougthorpe.com/become-a-better-leader-4-steps-to-boost-your-e-q/): Most of us think of a leader as someone with a great deal of education and experience in a certain area. While knowledge and experience are important qualities, one's ability to communicate and work well with others is just as important to being an effective leader. A hot topic on the scene these days is
- [Daniel Mueller on Leadership](https://dougthorpe.com/daniel-mueller-on-leadership/): From time to time, anyone working as a manager needs to decide whether they really are a leader. Several years ago, I began an association with a long-time executive coach, Daniel Mueller. He's a pioneer in the field of executive coaching having served senior executives across most of the Fortune 500 companies. Daniel has graciously shared some
- [Handling the Smartest Guy in the Room](https://dougthorpe.com/handling-the-smartest-guy-in-the-room/): We've all been there before. You've either worked with or for THAT person; "The smartest guy in the room." They can make you feel small, disregarded, uncomfortable. They have ways of expressing their thoughts to make your ideas seem so wrong. I once knew an executive who was always the smartest guy in the room.
- [What You Can Learn from Ted Lasso, Soccer Coach](https://dougthorpe.com/what-you-can-learn-from-ted-lasso-soccer-coach/): If you haven't seen it yet, you need to watch Jason Sudeikis as "Ted Lasso." It's a new Apple TV series he created, produced and stars in. The show is in a class all its own. Ted is an American college football coach who transfers to England to coach a Premier League soccer club. He
- [Getting Real in 2021](https://dougthorpe.com/getting-real-in-2021/): If you've followed my writing for any length of time, you know several things about me. I love helping business people improve their ability to lead teams and organizations. I believe in life-long-learning. Taking a common-sense approach to my teaching is critical to me. If it's too complicated, I either simplify it or find a
- [Solving Productivity Challenges in Small Teams](https://dougthorpe.com/solving-productivity-challenges-in-small-teams/): You're a small team, and you often feel like you need to do a lot with a little. But, despite the fact that you don’t have endless resources and limitless hands to share the load, you want to help your team figure out how to be productive. Even when you have everybody fired up and
- [6 Steps to Build Better Teams](https://dougthorpe.com/6-steps-to-build-better-teams/): Do you think your work team is just average? Have you ever thought about ways to make it better? What if you had a highly effective and productive team? Being a leader at work, at home, or in your community suggests just that. Your team has to be hitting the right marks to make you
- [Managerial Courage](https://dougthorpe.com/managerial-courage/): We are remodeling a bathroom and are in search of the holy grail—a certain rug that we saw somewhere that we should have bought when we saw it but didn’t. Our bad. We were unable to find the thing online as it is so hard to judge textured items on a website, forcing us on a
- [Leadership, Ownership, and Vision](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-ownership-and-vision/): This week’s meeting with a client reminded me of something so fundamental in running any size of business. Don’t forget your vision. John Maxwell says the best definition of a leader is "A leader sees more than the people around them and they see it before the people around them." That, my friend, is vision.
- [Leadership on the Road: 6 Key Thoughts](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-on-the-road-6-key-ideals/): Here's something from my archives. It's worth the read. First shared in 2014. I have been out on a client assignment at a remote job site. Truth be told not all that remote, but in my book, anything 25+ miles ‘outside of X’ is remote to me. Being that far off a beaten path can
- [Adversity and Leadership-Are Leaders Born or Made?](https://dougthorpe.com/adversity-and-leadership-are-leaders-born-or-made/): ‘Are leaders born or made?’ is a question often asked whenever there is any debate regarding leadership. Seeing the examples around us, of people coming from humble backgrounds and see them raising to success makes us believe that leadership is a skill that can be learned. Anyone can be a leader if nurtured in an
- [Are You Focused Deep or Wide?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-focused-deep-or-wide/): If you start talking about leadership, you may get several different reactions; everything from eye-roll to serious looks. Regardless of the guru you follow or the school where you took leadership training, there is one key question that remains. Will your leadership ability be deep or wide? If you're thinking about big organizations with high
- [Finding Focus Creates Clarity](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-focus-creates-clarity/): Discovering your Core Focus is an essential element of creating your company Vision. In my last article about becoming a FAST leader, the first part of the FAST acronym is FOCUS. Core Focus has been called many things in the history of business strategy. Many people call it a Vision Statement. Stephen Covey calls it
- [How About Aligning Your New Normal with Personal Purpose?](https://dougthorpe.com/how-about-aligning-your-new-normal-with-personal-purpose/): New normal. Have you heard that phrase lately? All of us are trying to establish our 'new normals' as we continue in the stay-home world of COVID-19. While many are still heading to work duties such as medial staff, first responders, essential services and government leaders, the rest of us struggle with finding a "normal".
- [You Might Have Focus All Wrong](https://dougthorpe.com/you-might-have-focus-all-wrong/): When you feel distracted or unproductive, the first thing you might think about is focus; as in “I need to get focused.” This conjures ideas of laser-centered attention to one thing. Actually, you may have the idea of focus all wrong. Dr. Jim Taylor writes in Psychology Today: “Let me introduce a term and then
- [Jobs Ministry Southwest](https://dougthorpe.com/jobs-ministry-southwest/): Today, Mr. Gary Selman, MA, spoke at JMS. Through his presentation, he challenged us to consider searching for God's perfect will while undergoing a job transition. This includes living your passion and going boldly. In today's uncertain economy, there is one school of thought that might say this approach is foolishness. But, as Gary explained,
- [What Is Your Time Worth?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-your-time-worth/): Ever felt you just didn't have enough time? Do your days slip away without you being able to finish what you thought was important? Businesses of all sizes think about return on investment (ROI). But have you ever thought about the return on invested time (ROIT)? Every person on the face of the earth shares
- [Fake News in the Blogsphere???](https://dougthorpe.com/fake-news-in-the-blogsphere/): Say it isnt so. Today is April 1 or April Fool's Day. Yes, I've seen my share of clever prank notes and ruses to get me going today. HOWEVER.... One stands heads and shoulders above them all. Marketing guru Ryan Deiss, of Austin, Texas, wins the world championship in my book. I've known Ryan for
- [BusinessRadioX Appearance 2/27/19](https://dougthorpe.com/businessradiox-appearance-2-27-19/): It was a great joy to spend some time on air with Stone Payton and Lee Kantor over in Atlanta on BusinessRadioX. Click the link below to hear the podcast.
- [What Is Executive Coaching?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-executive-coaching/): [et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.19.14"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.19.14"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.19.14"][et_pb_video src="https://youtu.be/nwVuPgd_Jtg" _builder_version="3.19.14"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [The Character of a Man](https://dougthorpe.com/the-character-of-a-man/): If you are searching to make a difference somewhere, look at what George H.W. Bush did in his time on this planet. Again, you can debate his politics, but you cannot deny his character.
- [How to Know if YOU have the Heart of a Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/how-to-know-if-you-have-the-heart-of-a-leader/): There is a whole body of academic work surrounding studies about management versus leadership.
- [Independence Day 2013](https://dougthorpe.com/independence-day-2013/): When I awoke early this morning, I was excited about the day and weekend ahead. My adult children are all assembling for the weekend. There will be food, fun, swimming, food, laughter, adult beverages, food, more swimming, did I mention food? Yet I found myself pondering the day and its original meaning. Being a military
- [May Musings](https://dougthorpe.com/may-musings/): Dear blog trackers, sorry for no new content recently. I’ve been incredibly busy with developing some new guides and seminar topic ideas. But that aside, how you been? How is your relationship development going? Have you made any new, meaningful contacts since we last spoke? NO? Shame on you. I’d say I’ve made at least
- [Great Reads for Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/great-reads-for-leaders/): There are millions of books. Tens of thousands of them are good. Hundreds are amazingly useful and inspiring for people in leadership. Such as... [easyazon_link keywords="the 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership" locale="US" tag="thredoth-20"]The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership[/easyazon_link], by John Maxwell (One of my personal favorites) [easyazon_link keywords="The 5 Dysfunctions Of A Team" locale="US" tag="thredoth-20"]The
- [We Have Video](https://dougthorpe.com/we-have-video/): It's a great pleasure to announce we have opened our video channel here too. If you would like to browse some of the great interviews and topics in store on my YouTube channel, just click over to the Video Channel page here. Here I will be sharing ways you too can grow your influence as
- [Leaders: Here's Why Multi-Tasking is a Bad Idea](https://dougthorpe.com/multi-tasking-bad-idea/): The idea of multi-tasking is a widely popular idea. People brag about how much cool stuff they can do all at the same time. The advent of smartphones, tablets, and smart watches make us all feel like multi-tasking Ninjas. The truth is, it is all a smoke screen. Very rarely do any of us truly multitask.
- [It's No Fun Casting Pearls at Mules](https://dougthorpe.com/its-no-fun-casting-pearls-at-mules/): We've all faced the moment when we realize that someone is being a stubborn mule.
- [Why Entrepreneurs Need To Move Away From FOMO](https://dougthorpe.com/5067-2/): The ‘Fear Of Missing Out’, mainly known by its acronym FOMO has become a much talked about behavioral phenomenon ever since social media has taken over our lives.
- [Advice to New Managers | Complaints Go Up](https://dougthorpe.com/advice-to-new-managers-complaints-go-up/): First time managers face a big challenge knowing how to channel the complaints they feel about the workplace.
- [Leadership: Play Silly Games, Win Silly Prizes](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-play-stupid-games-win-stupid-prizes/): Once you are given management responsibility, you have to focus on the core principles of the unit. Your effectiveness as a manager hinges on being able to lead the team.
- [Avoiding the Tendency to Overcompensate](https://dougthorpe.com/avoiding-the-tendency-to-overcompensate/): Managers and leaders frequently get caught over-compensating. You have an experience you don't like. When the next situation arises that looks like the former, you choose to over-correct for past failures.
- [Memorial Day Observations](https://dougthorpe.com/memorial-day-observations/): When a country sends young men and women away to fight a battle, one would think there is a true and greater good that is being served.
- [Leaders: Get Out of Your Own Box](https://dougthorpe.com/stuck-in-your-own-box/): We all have these personal paradigms that drive our reaction and interaction with culture and society.
- [Leadership: Are You Inbound or Outbound?](https://dougthorpe.com/inbound-or-outbound/): In the world of Internet marketing, there are two distinct approaches; there is inbound and outbound. Management and leadership has these same two dimensions.
- [Are you really a “people person”?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-really-a-people-person-2/): When was the last time you heard someone say "I am a people person”? Candidates for various management jobs often describe themselves as a people person.
- [What Is Your Go-To Leadership Style?](https://dougthorpe.com/go-leadership-style/): As a leader, taking a team from ordinary to extraordinary involves understanding and embracing the difference between management and leadership.
- [Building Trust - Why It Matters](https://dougthorpe.com/building-trust-why-it-matters/): Managers at every level of an organization must seek first to build a foundation of trust within their circle of influence.
- [Convicted, Conflicted, or Confused](https://dougthorpe.com/convicted-conflicted-or-confused/): A leader can easily find themselves in three states of mind; convicted, conflicted, or confused. Your situation may shift between the three.
- [Mastering Delegation of Authority](https://dougthorpe.com/mastering-delegation-of-authority/): Learning how to delegate authority is a challenge all leaders share. Do you do it well?
- [The Ultimate In Leadership Is Coaching Your Team](https://dougthorpe.com/the-ultimate-in-leadership-is-coaching/): The best leaders are coaches for their followers. Leaders who have amassed big followings impact their people by providing inspiration through coaching.
- [Career Moves: What's So Special About Me?](https://dougthorpe.com/whats-so-special-about-me/): Professionals in all walks of life often struggle with one key element. When asked about their strengths, they sometimes stumble through the answer.
- [Ah, the Fun of Doing Employee Performance Reviews](https://dougthorpe.com/ah-fun-employee-performance-reviews/): Performance appraisals: why do we continue, year after year, with this outdated, tedious, and questionable process?
- [Four Responsibilities A CEO Cannot Delegate (and why)](https://dougthorpe.com/3285-2/): There are four responsibilities essential to a CEO’s job description and which only the CEO can do.
- [What's So Valuable About Building Value?](https://dougthorpe.com/building-value/): What does value mean to you? When you think about anything as being “valuable”, what does that mean?
- [Get Off Your Buts...](https://dougthorpe.com/get-off-your-buts/): One of the most powerful words is BUT. It has far reaching impact on several levels. Individuals who achieve the most in this life seldom give in to BUT.
- [The 4 D’s of Dream Destruction](https://dougthorpe.com/the-4-ds-of-dream-destruction/): Are you on track toward creating the life you want in 2017? Or are the four D’s of Dream Destruction going to keep you stuck in place.
- [Jobs Ministry Southwest](https://dougthorpe.com/jobs-ministry-southwest-2/): Yesterday, 2/3, JMS had a record day. We saw 24 new visitors. The senior manager "SEGUE" was a powerful session and our speaker, Gary Selman, brought a powerful message about living life God's way. From the responses that Jorge and I received, I truly believe God is making an impact in the hearts and minds
- [Job Loss is Tough](https://dougthorpe.com/job-loss-is-tough/): Recently speaking to my group at JMS, we were visiting the idea of trying to stay focused and positive while dealing with career transition. In the words of F. Scott Fitzgerald (he should know given his life struggles) –“Vitality shows not only in the ability to persist, but in the ability to start over.” Sometime
- [Two Easy Ways to Improve 2017 - Plan Ahead](https://dougthorpe.com/two-easy-ways-to-improve-2017-plan-ahead/): At this time of year much is written about setting plans and goals for the new year. There are hundreds of programs and tools to help you build a better YOU.
- [Leaders - Do You Still Fear Rejection?](https://dougthorpe.com/leaders-still-fear-rejection/): Rejection - Does hearing the word strike fear? Do you fight the thought of rejection when you launch new ideas or need to ask your Board or your CEO for something?
- [8 Tips For Productive Offsites](https://dougthorpe.com/8-tips-for-productive-offsites/): Many organizations have now entered the fourth quarter, the home stretch. But it is also time to begin hard planning for 2017 – and that makes it offsite season. Here are a few tips to help your meetings be most productive. Have the offsite “offsite.” This seems obvious, but it is worth pointing out that
- [Why Limiting Thoughts Are More Lame Than James Franco](https://dougthorpe.com/beware-the-limiting-thought/): In my experience, one of the most dangerous types of thought is the limiting thought. You know it, the little negative seed of an idea that gets planted in the brain and keeps great things from happening. Limiting thoughts are lame thoughts; ok perhaps not as lame as James Franco, but still pretty lame.
- [Leadership: Finding Answers](https://dougthorpe.com/finding-answers/): When a team is looking for answers, they turn to their Leader. Leadership includes being the source for clarity and vision. As problems emerge, and they...
- [Leadership and Foundation Repairs](https://dougthorpe.com/foundation-repairs/): Assuming you have operated your business from your own set of foundation values, the question today is whether that foundation has begun to crack.
- [Finding Purpose: Know Your Swim Lane](https://dougthorpe.com/know-your-swim-lane/): Competitive swimmers must stay in a prescribed lane during the race. It's actually a violation to get out of your lane.
- [Leadership Bullet: Don't Water the Weeds](https://dougthorpe.com/dont-water-the-weeds/): If you are trying to grow a garden, weeds are bad, right? When you are in leadership and someone talks about “the Weeds”, you either think about your bad employees or you think about details that feel like they are choking you.
- [Open Letter to My Tribe](https://dougthorpe.com/open-letter-tribe/): You guys rock! I am both blessed and humbled to be here.
- [Why Didn't You Become You?](https://dougthorpe.com/why-didnt-you-become-you/): Continuing my Tuesday/Thursday series of guest posts, here are some wise words to ponder. Brought to you by David Harder, Founder & President of Inspired Work There troublesome aspects of change. Many people believe they cannot change. Or, they are so afraid of changing themselves they won't take meaningful action. Finally, many people want to change
- [Managers: Put Some Fun in Your Day](https://dougthorpe.com/2030-2/): How do you put fun in your day? That sounds like a simple question. Keeping the fun element alive every day can be a big challenge.
- [Professional Growth and Financial Gain](https://dougthorpe.com/professional-growth/): Like every organism I know about, things change. This blog is changing. In addition to my regular posts on Mondays and Wednesdays that center on coaching for new managers, I am adding some new features. The Tuesday/Thursday slots will be used for guest authors and presenting new, more product and program oriented offerings. The change
- [The Relationship Attraction Factors](https://dougthorpe.com/the-relationship-triangle/): There are three common attractions between man and woman that cannot go without consideration.
- [One Small Step](https://dougthorpe.com/one-small-step/): A simple change in your vocabulary can make a great big difference in how your leadership is received.
- [Increased Productivity is Like Rocks and Sand](https://dougthorpe.com/rocks-and-sand/): When clients ask about time management, setting priorities, and mastering goals, I like to recall an old but reliable metaphor.
- [Living Lent](https://dougthorpe.com/living-lent/): For millions, we have entered into a season known as Lent. Here is an inspiring article from Barbara Cawthorne Crafton who tells a very compelling story about finding balance in work, life, and faith. Regardless of your spiritual persuasion, this article sums up what happens in generation after generation if we are not careful to
- [The Emotionally Intelligent Candidate](https://dougthorpe.com/1365-2/): While academics debate whether emotional intelligence (EI) can be taught, in the workplace, HR professionals are searching for ways to identify EI among candidates and strengthen it in employees.
- [Here's How to Have Your Best Year Ever](https://dougthorpe.com/heres-how-to-have-your-best-year-ever/): I gotta make this really quick... I am honored to be able to partner with Michael Hyatt to make you an incredible offer. He has been a mentor to me and my business. I am sure his plan will help you! Michael just released his all-new 5 Days To Your Best Year Ever Coaching Program.
- [Personal Change](https://dougthorpe.com/personal-change/): Personal change can happen in many ways. The most effective is the change we opt-in to make. These are the changes we agree should be made and more importantly should be made. I am not talking about the simple choices in life like which Starbuck’s flavor to buy, or what clothes to wear today. No,
- [Don't Swallow the Crunchy Stuff](https://dougthorpe.com/dont-swallow-the-crunchy-stuff/): During a trip to the dentist for some work on a crown, I was sitting comfortably in the chair. As my dentist got to work, she said “OK, I am going to start now; don’t swallow the crunchy stuff”. It occurs to me this could be good advice when confronted with challenging and perhaps even
- [Chasing Your Tail?](https://dougthorpe.com/chasing-your-tail/): Remember watching a cat or dog chase their tail? The real question is when was the last time someone watched you chasing your tail?
- [Pro or Shmo?](https://dougthorpe.com/pro-or-shmo/): Ok I admit it…I am a long-suffering Houston Texans football fan. Over the past two years, the Texans have found ways to be on the short end of a miraculous come-back finish of no less than 6 football games. Yes, 0-6 over those games. Missed field goals, dropped passes, fumbles, Hail Mary’s (by the other
- [Help Helpers Help](https://dougthorpe.com/help-helpers-help/): What do you do to tell family, friends, and neighbors about the things you are doing in your career?
- [Oh Gosh! Not Another Networking Event...](https://dougthorpe.com/oh-gosh-not-another-networking-event/): Did you know that most of the time when someone makes that kind of impression on us, we did most of the talking and they did most of the listening?
- [Through the Looking Glass](https://dougthorpe.com/through-the-looking-glass/): The question was “have you looked in the mirror lately?” I happen to like that thinking. I am a big fan of introspection and self-talk for overcoming challenges in life. So as I was being refreshed with this article it dawned on me that there is one big problem with that approach.
- [Q&A for Your Next Boss](https://dougthorpe.com/qa-for-your-next-boss/): I will be interviewing with and ultimately reporting to the CEO. I have one question that I need to ask someone, but I am not sure who. -- What is the CEO's management style?
- [Procedures? We Don't Need No Stinking Procedures](https://dougthorpe.com/procedures-we-dont-need-no-stinking-procedures/): At my company, we see as many as 92% of our job applicants failing to follow the prescribed job posting procedures. We count that as immediate elimination.
- [What is the New Normal?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-the-new-normal/): What is the new normal for job search?
- [Does Your Transition Story Have a Punchline?](https://dougthorpe.com/does-your-transition-story-have-a-punchline-2/): Job Seekers looking for new opportunities need to be able to significantly contribute to the selection process by telling an effective “transition story”. What this means is to develop a strong and compelling bridge between what you did before and what you can do now for the new employer.
- [Little More Life in Your Day](https://dougthorpe.com/little-more-life-in-your-day/): What will you do with the 86,400 you have?
- [Are You a Cool Breeze or a Fog Machine?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-a-cool-breeze-or-a-fog-machine/): Workplace conduct always has its ups and downs. Personalities of all shapes and sizes interact, presumably to accomplish some common goal. Yet as each new day unfolds, there are extreme ends of the spectrum that are worthy of our consideration. First the Cool Breeze…these are the people who find the positive in most any circumstance.
- [Winds of Change?](https://dougthorpe.com/winds-of-change/): Turn, turn, turn…to every season turn, turn; an old line from a popular old song, but even more significant, text from the Bible.
- [Are You Ready to Be an "Emerging Worker"?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-ready-to-be-an-emerging-worker/): “Emerging Workers” That is the term I use for workers “of age” who were between jobs and now are taking contract/consulting opportunities. While many companies today are adding these contract workers to their ranks to augment projects and/or staff specific short term needs, it is rare to see a situation with a whole team of these “employees”, guided by only a few permanent staff members.
- [Is Conan O'Brien the New Permanent Temporary Worker?](https://dougthorpe.com/is-conan-obrien-the-new-permanent-temporary-worker/): NBC’s decision to juggle its late-night schedule has caused quite a stir. Regardless of which star’s side you might take, one thing is clear. Employment, even for major network superstars, is temporary at best. Conan’s gig only lasted 7 months.
- [Job Search Rollercoasters](https://dougthorpe.com/job-search-rollercoasters/): People between jobs face a daily rollercoaster of emotion, energy, and challenge. So how do you find balance in the ups and downs? Here are a few tips.
- [Life's Little Things](https://dougthorpe.com/lifes-little-things/): Chances are you've been bitten by a mosquito, an ant, a gnat, a bee or a wasp, but have you ever been bitten by a lion or an elephant? Not too likely. The point is that it's usually the little things in life that get under our skin and upset our apple cart more often than the biggies.
- [Are There Enough Buses?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-there-enough-buses/): John Collins in his highly acclaimed “Good to Great” writes about “getting the right people on the bus”. My question is “will there be enough buses”?
- [Happy 2010](https://dougthorpe.com/happy-2010/): The first decade of the 21st century is behind us. Whew. I don’t know about you, but this has been a wild ride for lots of reasons. When I was growing up, a wise man once told me "you need to learn from all your experiences; good or bad". What shall I say about this
- [Rip This Page from Mike Leach's Book](https://dougthorpe.com/rip-this-page-from-mike-leachs-book/): The media may turn Mike Leach into the latest poster child for alleged on-the-job behavioral defects, but do not be fooled to think he is alone. There is an old adage among HR professionals that says “You are hired on skills, but fired on behavior.” Maybe we all need to revisit this idea.
- [2009 Year End CloseOut](https://dougthorpe.com/2009-year-end-closeout/): As 2009 comes to an end, people in job transition are still facing big challenges. Now is the time to do a year end closeout just like a company or an accountant might do. Here’s how: Take out all correspondence journals, logs, email records etc. Review the content and the contacts. See with whom you might
- [Are You a Go-Giver?](https://dougthorpe.com/are-you-a-go-giver-2/): Are you familiar with this term? It comes from a great little parable in book form written by Bob Burg and John David Mann. In this story the writers tell of five key principles that define a “go-giver”. With so much buzz about networking for new business, networking for your next job, and all the
- [Happy Thanksgiving](https://dougthorpe.com/happy-thanksgiving/): As we rapidly approach the Thanksgiving celebration, families are already on the road or in the air traveling to various rendezvous points. Some times these gatherings represent long lost relationships being restored or they may just be a good time to meet again. Food, football, fun, and joyous excitement can abound. For some though, the
- [Value Propositions](https://dougthorpe.com/value-propositions/): A good sales minded job search includes a powerful value proposition.

## Pages

- [Go-or-No-Go-which is it](https://dougthorpe.com/): Cut through the noise with straight-talk coaching for business leaders. Name the problem, uncover the real cause, and take decisive action—go or no-go.
- [servant leadership coach Houston](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-coach-houston/): Houston's servant leadership expert. Transform your leadership with practical frameworks that reduce turnover 50%, boost engagement 60%, and drive measurable results. 30+ years experience.
- [Practical Servant Leadership Strategies](https://dougthorpe.com/practical-servant-leadership-strategies-for-leaders-copy/): Transform how you lead in an AI-era workplace with servant leadership and practical systems that build trust and accountability.
- [Practical Servant Leadership Strategies for Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/stop-leading-on-empty/): Uncover actionable frameworks for servant leadership that help modern executives lead with authenticity, service, and strategic impact.
- [Steady](https://dougthorpe.com/steady/): Steady: The Leadership Framework reveals the 12 real-world qualities leaders say matter most—an actionable playbook from eight years of coaching.
- [overlooked-to-indispensable](https://dougthorpe.com/overlooked-to-indispensable/): Stop being invisible at work. Join a 30-day leadership program to uncover your purpose, craft your story, and become indispensable—authentically.
- [Natural Born Leader](https://dougthorpe.com/natural-born-leader/): Tap into your innate leadership abilities using the Natural Born Leadership Assessment. Actionable results to boost team performance and career trajectory.
- [Headway Huddle the Elite Group](https://dougthorpe.com/mastermind/): Headway Huddle: an elite mastermind for growth-minded business owners seeking trusted peer advisory, strategic connections, and faster, real-world results.
- [Executive Coach, Founder to CEO, Leadership confidence](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-advisor-mentor-counsel/): Discover practical servant leadership to stop imposter syndrome and inspire followership. A trusted leadership advisor’s framework for real-world impact.
- [Big Five](https://dougthorpe.com/big-five/): Big 5 Performance We regret to inform you that the SaaS solution known as “Big 5 Performance Management” aka Big5Works has been sunset effective July 2026. Former users were transitioned off the platform prior to closing. If you have any questions about team performance and company growth, The Doug Thorpe Group will be happy to
- [Headway Huddle](https://dougthorpe.com/huddle/): Headway Huddle Where Smart Business Owners Get Smarter Together The Mastermind Myth Why 9 Out of 10 Groups Become Expensive Coffee Clubs Let’s be honest—you’ve probably been there. You join a mastermind group with high hopes, ready to level up your business alongside other ambitious founders. Fast forward three months, and you’re sitting through another
- [Servant Leadership for Business Owners | Scale Through Service | Doug Thorpe](https://dougthorpe.com/business/): Discover why servant leadership is the founder's secret weapon. Learn to delegate, empower teams, and grow without being the bottleneck.
- [Philosophy](https://dougthorpe.com/philosophy/): Philosophy If serving is beneath you, leadership is beyond you. That's not a slogan I picked because it sounds good on a slide. It's the thing I've watched separate leaders who last from leaders who burn their teams out — across the military, Wall Street, and five companies of my own. Leadership Powered by Common
- [100 Day Plan](https://dougthorpe.com/100-day-plan-4ps/): Get your own copy of Doug's 100 Day Plan
- [Bio](https://dougthorpe.com/business-advisor-and-executive-coach-doug-thorpe-bio/): Doug Thorpe is a performance-driven Senior Executive, Entrepreneur, Board Member, Thought Leader, and Consultant with more than 40 years of success.
- [Career Coaching](https://dougthorpe.com/career-coaching/): Career Coaching Career Transition. Outplacement. Job Change. Since 2008 when the Great Recession hit the U.S., Doug Thorpe has been helping professionals make career shifts. Over 4,500 people to be exact.From that experience, Doug created STRIVE, his proprietary model for job search and career transition success. Get the Book. Learn the Method. STRIVE starts with
- [Contact](https://dougthorpe.com/contact/): Contact Us Thanks for stopping by. Use the contact form to tell us how we might help you. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Name *FirstLastEmail * Tell URL can Website / URLWhich role best describes you?Business Owner/EntrepreneurC-Suite/ExecutiveVice PresidentDirectorManagerCoordinatorReligious LeaderStay-at-Home WorkerEmployeeStudentOtherTell us how
- [Books](https://dougthorpe.com/books-by-doug/): Books by Doug Thorpe There are a lot of books and programs out there for business leaders. But not every author puts the right tools in your hands to grow your business. Powered by common sense, Doug Thorpe provides relatable advisory and coaching for today’s leaders. A Trusted Source of Business Books and Programs Doug
- [Owner Offer 90 Days](https://dougthorpe.com/owner-offer-90-days/): Own a Business, Not a Job You Can't Quit — The Doug Thorpe Group The Doug Thorpe Group How it works Benefits FAQ Book a Call A 90-day partnership for owners who do it all You Didn't Build a Business.You Built a Job You Can't Quit. Right now, everything runs through you — every decision,
- [YouTube Channel](https://dougthorpe.com/elementor-26426/): Podcast Playlist
- [Speaking](https://dougthorpe.com/speaking/): Discover Doug Thorpe's engaging talks on trust, change, and strategic leadership. Book opportunities via Karla—email today to discuss your event.
- [What is Coaching?](https://dougthorpe.com/what-is-coaching/): Lead smarter, not harder: personalized coaching helps you align goals, unlock resources, and drive real, sustainable growth across your organization.
- [The Edge | Business Blueprint](https://dougthorpe.com/the-edge/): Unlock a proven four-part system with The Edge—reach 6-8 figures through focused, no-fluff coaching, weekly LIVE sessions, and actionable playbooks.
- [Services Pricing](https://dougthorpe.com/pricing/): Transform your strategy with the EDGE Blueprint: 12 weeks of company-wide leadership and planning upgrades, weekly executive coaching, and tailored outcomes.
- [HR-Leaders](https://dougthorpe.com/hr-leaders/): Transform your leadership culture with proven servant leadership development. Reduce turnover 50%, boost engagement 60%, and prove ROI to your executive team. Trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
- [Team Trust - Building Great Teams](https://dougthorpe.com/teamtrust/): Powerful 6 step model for rapid development of high trust environment for your team.
- [Chat](https://dougthorpe.com/chat/): Discovery Call
- [The Uncommon Commodity](https://dougthorpe.com/the-uncommon-commodity/): The Uncommon Commodity — A Common Sense Guide for New Managers | Doug Thorpe Also by Doug Thorpe — Browse all books | New Release: STEADY: The Leadership Framework DOUG THORPE The Book Inside Reviews Author Get Your Copy Book by Doug Thorpe The Uncommon Commodity The Common Sense Guide for New Managers You were
- [PE-VC](https://dougthorpe.com/pe-vc/): Simplifying Private Equity and Venture Capital Leadership Are you having difficulty finding the right people for the right seats in startups? We have you covered with dedicated tools to create management teams built for purpose supporting investment firms. Services that Deliver Results in the Investment Community Does your firm need to screen potential servant leadership
- [executive coaching](https://dougthorpe.com/executive-coaching/): Leadership, powered by common sense. Executive coaching for business owners and senior managers.
- [Visit1](https://dougthorpe.com/visit1/): Take the First Step with Confidence Not everyone is ready for servant leadership.But, you should always be looking for ways to grow; yourself and your business. A Proven Approach Your business is your life’s work. But here’s the question that keeps you up at night: Is it running you, or are you running it?Most founders
- [FAQ](https://dougthorpe.com/faq/): Frequently Asked Questions Everything you need to know about working with Doug Thorpe Group for business advisory and executive coaching Leadership Powered by Common Sense® - Real Experience, Real Results Get the Answers You Need Considering business advisory or executive coaching? These are the most important questions to ask before making your investment. Get straight
- [Meet Doug Thorpe](https://dougthorpe.com/meet-doug/): Doug Thorpe, author, speaker, business coach, business coaching, mentor to new managers
- [Start Here](https://dougthorpe.com/start-here/): As a business coach, executive consultant, and project manager Doug Thorpe has helped many people stop being just managers and instead be leaders at their jobs.
- [Sign-Up Thank You](https://dougthorpe.com/sign-up-thank-you/): Now, you can read the blog updates by clicking your email rather than remembering to browse here.
- [EO vs. Vistage vs. 1:1 Coaching | Free Comparison Guide](https://dougthorpe.com/eo-vs-vistage-vs-11-coaching-free-comparison-guide/): EO vs. Vistage vs. 1:1 Coaching | Free Comparison Guide EO vs. Vistage vs. 1:1 Coaching | Free Comparison Guide Which Growth Path Fits Your Business: EO, Vistage, or 1:1 Coaching? If your company is between $5M–$50M in revenue with 15–150 employees, the leadership support you choose will shape your next stage of growth. This
- [Business Coach Cost | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching](https://dougthorpe.com/business-coach-cost-doug-thorpe-executive-coaching/): Business Coach Cost Business Coach Cost | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching Business Coach Cost Here's the truth about business coach cost: You're not just buying coaching sessions—you're investing in the difference between staying stuck and actually growing your business. Most leaders ask about price first, but smart leaders ask about results first. I've spent 30+
- [Leadership Training Pricing](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-training-pricing/): Leadership Training Pricing | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching Leadership Training Pricing Here's the truth about leadership training pricing: You're not just buying a workshop or seminar—you're investing in the systematic development of your most critical business asset: your ability to lead effectively. The difference between generic leadership training and transformational leadership development shows up immediately
- [Executive Coach Near Me](https://dougthorpe.com/executive-coach-near-me/): Executive Coach Near Me | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching Executive Coach Near Me Transform Your Leadership with Proven Executive Coaching from Doug Thorpe - Serving Leaders Nationwide with 30+ Years of Experience Searching for an executive coach near me who truly understands what it takes to lead in today's challenging business environment? You've found your
- [Business Consultant Near Me | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching](https://dougthorpe.com/business-consultant-near-me-doug-thorpe-executive-coaching/): Business Consultant Near Me | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching Business Consultant Near Me Here's the truth about finding a business consultant near me: Location matters less than expertise, but accessibility and understanding your local market can make all the difference. You need a business consultant who combines real-world business experience with convenient access and deep
- [Executive Coach Pricing | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching](https://dougthorpe.com/elementor-26790/): Executive Coach Pricing | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching Executive Coach Pricing Here's the truth about executive coach pricing: You're not just buying coaching sessions—you're investing in the strategic guidance that can accelerate your career, enhance your leadership effectiveness, and drive superior organizational results. The question isn't what executive coaching costs, but what continuing to navigate
- [CEO Coaching Cost | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching](https://dougthorpe.com/ceo-coaching-pricing-doug-thorpe-executive-coaching/): Ceo Coaching Cost | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching CEO Coaching Cost Here's the truth about CEO coaching cost: You're not just buying coaching sessions—you're investing in the strategic guidance that can determine whether your company thrives or merely survives. The real question isn't what CEO coaching costs, but what the wrong decisions, missed opportunities, and
- [Executive Coach Cost](https://dougthorpe.com/executive-coach-cost/): Executive Coach Cost | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching Executive Coach Cost Here's the truth about executive coach cost: You're not just buying coaching hours—you're investing in leadership transformation that directly impacts your organization's bottom line and your personal career trajectory. I've spent 30+ years in executive roles, from military leadership to Texas Commerce Bank executive
- [Leadership Training Near Me | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-training-near-me-doug-thorpe-executive-coaching/): Leadership Training Near Me | Doug Thorpe Executive Coaching Leadership Training Near Me Find exceptional leadership training near me with Doug Thorpe's proven EDGE methodology. Over 30 years of leadership experience delivering results for executives nationwide through flexible, accessible training solutions. When searching for "leadership training near me," you deserve more than generic programs that
- [Business coach Austin](https://dougthorpe.com/business-coach-austin/): Austin Business Coach | Executive Leadership for $3M-$25M Companies | Doug Thorpe Austin Business Coach Scaling Leaders in America's Innovation Capital 5,500+ Startups in Austin $4B Venture funding in 2024 30+ Years Leadership Experience Specializing in companies generating $3M-$25M in annual revenue, I help Austin business owners and executives navigate the unique challenges of scaling
- [Business coach Dallas](https://dougthorpe.com/business-coach-dallas/): Dallas Business Coach | Executive Leadership for $3M-$25M Companies | Doug Thorpe Dallas Business Coach Transforming Mid-Market Leaders in America's Corporate Capital 21 Fortune 500 companies in DFW 62K+ Businesses in Dallas 30+ Years Leadership Experience Specializing in companies generating $3M-$25M in annual revenue, I help Dallas business owners and executives develop Fortune 500-caliber leadership
- [Houston Business Coach](https://dougthorpe.com/houston-business-coach/): Houston Business Coach | Executive Leadership for $3M-$25M Companies | Doug Thorpe Houston Business Coach Transforming Mid-Market Leaders in America's 4th Largest City 97% Houston businesses are small-to-medium 1.2M Employees in Houston SMBs 30+ Years Leadership Experience Specializing in companies generating $3M-$25M in annual revenue, I help Houston business owners and executives build sustainable leadership
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- [TESTIMONIAL](https://dougthorpe.com/testimonials/): Recommendations ad testimony from other business resources
- [Knowledge Map](https://dougthorpe.com/elementor-25845/): Doug Thorpe Leadership Philosophy Knowledge Map Leadership Philosophy Knowledge Map Revealing the surprising patterns in Doug Thorpe's leadership thought 🎯 Composite Thesis Doug Thorpe advocates for "Leadership Powered by Common Sense" - a philosophy that cuts through complexity to focus on what actually works for real humans in real situations. His approach integrates military precision
- [Leadership Framework Assessment](https://dougthorpe.com/leadership-framework-assessment/): Personal Leadership Framework Builder Build Your Leadership Framework Explore the leadership attributes below and select the ones that resonate with you. There's no right or wrong combination - this is about discovering your unique leadership style. Selected attributes: 0 ⭐ View My Framework 💡 Select at least 5 attributes to generate your personalized leadership framework
- [As Seen On](https://dougthorpe.com/as-seen-on/): Check out the shows where Doug Thorpe has been a guest Mark Fairs and Doug Thorpe Zoe Roth Leadership Podcast Alex Johnson and Doug Thorpe Focus On Customer Experience Podcast Jeff Standridge and Doug Thorpe Wayne Zell and Doug Thorpe Jim Sambellico and Doug Thorpe Winter Baserva and Doug Thorpe Steve Harper and Doug Thorpe
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- [WHY](https://dougthorpe.com/why/): The Doug Thorpe Group Philosophy Frameworks Steady Building Team Trust The Edge | Business Blueprint 100 Day Plan Insights Books Articles Podcast Videos FAQ Work With Doug Leadership Coaching Business Owners Headway Huddle Meet Doug Contact Philosophy Frameworks Steady Building Team Trust The Edge | Business Blueprint 100 Day Plan Insights Books Articles Podcast Videos
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- [Speedy Priority Finder](https://dougthorpe.com/speedy-priority-finder/): We all lead crazy busy lives. Our best laid plans get out of whack every so often. Your greatest master plans can get interrupted, over crowded with life events, or forgotten. The colored squares in the diagram below get filled with so much detail, we lose sight of what we meant to do. Sometimes you
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- [The Uncommon Commodity](https://dougthorpe.com/tuc/): Doug Thorpe's book for new, first-time managers. Written is easy to understand, common sense, logic, dedicated to those who are entering their management careers.
- [Encouragement](https://dougthorpe.com/encouragement/): Here are some links to various articles and resources if you need to find a bit of encouragement each day. Hitting Bottom is Not Always Bad How do you handle adversity? Being on top has its own way of humbling you from time to time. Leaders face an ever-present force that can turn in just
- [Thank You](https://dougthorpe.com/thank-you-holiday-2015/): Thank you for ordering our course : “MASTERS COURSE – 12.5 Ways to Get Ahead on LinkedIn” You will be receiving instructions for links to the web content. So keep an eye on your inbox. In the mean time, check out our blog posts or visit me on Twitter @realDougThorpe Best wishes for Super Success!!!!
- [Get Updates to My Blog Via RSS](https://dougthorpe.com/get-updates-blog-via-rss/): You don’t have to visit my blog to stay up-to-date. Instead, you can get updates through my RSS feeds. Whenever I post fresh content, I will push the new content to your RSS reader. My regular posts: These are the full-length articles that I publish two to four times a week. Note also that
- [Why-Order-confirmation](https://dougthorpe.com/why-order-confirmation/): CONGRATULATIONS – You are about to Discover your WHY.os CLICK HERE TO BEGIN
- [Podcasts](https://dougthorpe.com/podcasts/): Doug has also appeared on these fine shows:
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- [We should talk....](https://dougthorpe.com/call/): Talk to Doug The best way I know to get a new relationship started is for us to talk.I’m offering a complimentary Business Breakthrough Session to meet you, learn more about your current situation and hear about where you want to go. If you are interested in taking us up on Doug’s offer, fill in
- [Downloads](https://dougthorpe.com/downloads/)
- [Resources - Books](https://dougthorpe.com/resources-books/): The following list of books are ones I’ve found very useful, inspirational, and helpful. These form the basis of much of my coaching. If these are of interest to you, simply scroll to the book title and buy it on Amazon. [easyazon_link keywords=”Get Noticed in a Noisy World” locale=”US” tag=”thredoth-20″]Platform: Get Noticed in a Noisy
- [Web Thank You](https://dougthorpe.com/web-thank-you/): Thanks for taking time to register for our call. I look forward to hearing from you. Here's a short video I shot to explain why I love coaching and mentoring. I also want to share some of the testimonials I've received. I have had the great fortune to work with and learn from Doug Thorpe
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- [Resources - Publications](https://dougthorpe.com/resources-publications/): If you follow my blog on a regular basis, you probably also notice I read quite a few online magazines. Several people have asked for a list of those magazines. Here is the list organized by category. I will be adding additional resources to the list over the next 30 days. Emerging Technologies Wired Magazine: http://www.wired.com
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