With the Ashes in full swing in England I have been up late watching the Australian Men and Women play against our old foe. The matches have been thrilling but at the same time are often slow and meditative to watch. A perfect combination! The English crowds provide a great backdrop; their singing and banter […]
I believe that sport provides a learning environment for leadership and life. As one of the guests on our podcast, Hugh McCutcheon said, “you can make mistakes in sports and learn from them without incurring the same level of collateral damage you might have to face in the ‘real world’.” Recently I was reminded of […]
Early in my career I was what the psychologist Daniel Goleman called, ‘a pacesetter’; I worked hard as the leader in the hope that others would emulate me. Fortunately, I got rid of that habit before it led to my burnout and demise thanks to some good role models and timely feedback. (Big thanks Paolo […]
A while back I interviewed the legendary Swimming coach Bill Sweetenham for a podcast, I host called The Great Coaches: Leadership and Life. The swimmers he has coached have won 27 Olympic and World Championship medals and have broken 9 world records. Bill is a great storyteller, and the episode has gone on to be […]
I am not a golf player. I have tried over the years, but it’s just not for me. However, I will watch the big tournaments when they are on TV. I find it fascinating how the players cope with the intense focus around them when they step up to the ball. It’s a game of […]
Towards the end of President Obama’s time in office he was interviewed about how he manages the stress of his job. He talks about exercise, dinner with his family, keeping a long-term perspective but also that “I don’t get too high, don’t get too low.” I remember hearing him say that at the time and […]
The English deputy Prime Minister, Dominic Raab has resigned after bullying claims. He says that this sets “a very dangerous precedent” for workplace culture in the civil service. When I read about this, it made me reflect on the line between challenge and pushing too far so that it is perceived as bullying. The width […]
The day after King Charles’ coronation there was a concert and his son, Prince William spoke at the opening. In a 90 second space he said that he thought his mum, the late Queen, would be proud and that he too was proud of his Dad. It reminded me that sometimes belief from others fortifies […]