One of our clients recently shared an all too familiar tension. Their senior team members are sharp, seasoned, and committed—but not always aligned. Deadlines slip. Priorities drift. And my client finds themselves caught in a tug-of-war between two leadership instincts: push for clarity and results, or step back and give space.

It’s a challenge many leaders face, especially when leading experienced professionals. You’re not dealing with junior staff who need task-level direction. You’re managing people who expect autonomy, and still look to you for alignment and momentum. That gap—between hands-on leadership and empowered ownership—is where things often break down.

So how do you know when to intervene versus when to let go?

Let’s break this down.

The Temptation to Overcorrect

When results stall, most leaders react in one of two ways:

• Over-functioning: You jump in. Take on too much. Fill in the gaps. It’s faster, cleaner, and it feels like leadership in action.

• Under-...

One of the biggest challenges in business isn't financial instability or market competition—it’s the fear of unpredictability and isolation. Many entrepreneurs and business leaders find themselves thinking, I'm all by myself. Nobody understands what I'm experiencing. I have to do this on my own. I know, I’ve been there. This fear can be paralyzing, and it doesn’t have to dictate success or failure. It can also be a good indication of how you can provide certainty to your clients and prospects.

The Power of Predictability

At the heart of people's fear is the unknown. Unpredictability breeds anxiety because we don’t know what’s coming next. This is why structure and proven systems are crucial. They provide a roadmap to follow, giving people a sense of control in what can often feel like chaos.

When you introduce predictability, you say, Here’s how we get to the outcome. We follow these steps, and they have worked before. This clarity becomes a stabilizing force amid the uncertainty...

Sloppy communication is everywhere. It creeps into workplace conversations, casual check-ins, and even crucial project updates. It’s that vague, non-committal response that leaves everyone assuming things will get done—until they don’t. If you’ve ever dealt with a situation where tasks keep falling through the cracks, you’ve probably been a victim of sloppy communication.

Snow More Sloppy Communication

Recently I was speaking with a client, and he gave a perfect example of sloppy communication. The manager of his building company had delegated snow removal, and the conversation went something like this:

Manager: “What’s happening with the snow removal?”
Employee: “We got it handled.”

Fast forward to the next snowfall (because in Canada there is always a “next”), and low and behold, no one was removing the snow. Why? Because “we got it handled” is not a plan, it’s not a commitment, and it’s certainly not an actionable response. It’s a vague assurance that gives the illusion of pro...

As wildfires blaze across Los Angeles, we are reminded of the unpredictable forces that can upend our lives in an instant. These fires, driven by relentless winds and fueled by dry conditions, are a stark metaphor for the unexpected challenges we can face in our personal and professional lives. While we can’t prevent every crisis, we can prepare for them—and preparation can make all the difference between survival and devastation.

The Importance of Being Prepared

Wildfires teach us that readiness isn’t optional; it’s essential. Families in fire-prone areas create evacuation plans, pack go-bags, and establish communication strategies. These steps don’t stop the fires, but they do save lives and minimize loss. Similarly, businesses must be equipped to handle unforeseen challenges. Whether it’s a sudden shift in market conditions, a global pandemic, or an unexpected competitor, the ability to adapt quickly is a hallmark of resilience.

The "What If?" Exercise

One powerful way to prepar...

As the holiday season rolls around, it often brings a mix of emotions—joy, excitement, and, for many of us, a tinge of sorrow. This year has been challenging for many, me included. Perhaps you've lost someone dear, experienced a significant change, or simply feel the weight of the world’s uncertainties. The holidays, while magical in many ways, can also amplify feelings of loss and longing. Yet, amid the challenges, there is space for healing, hope, and creating a brighter future.

Honoring the Ones We Miss

Grief during the holidays can feel like a heavy blanket, and there are meaningful ways to honor those we miss while still embracing the season’s spirit:

1. Create a Tribute Tradition: Light a candle, hang an ornament, or prepare their favorite dish. These small acts can keep their memory alive in a way that feels warm and comforting.
2. Share Stories: Gather with loved ones to share favorite memories. Laughter and reminiscing can often bring a sense of closeness and healing.
3. Give...

Most of us instinctively avoid friction, steering clear of the discomfort it brings. It’s natural to want smooth, effortless interactions and harmonious relationships. And that is not always possible. What if I told you that friction is actually a gift, a powerful indicator that can reveal crucial insights about ourselves? I love friction, because of what it tells me about my own inner world and what’s important to me not because I relish discomfort (although I’ve been told I am really good at having tough conversations – if you need help with this reach out, I’m always up for a challenge).

Friction as a Signal of Bigger Aspirations

Think back to a recent situation where you felt frustrated—perhaps at work, with a team member, or even in a personal relationship. That discomfort you felt wasn’t random; it was a signal from within. Friction often arises when there’s a gap between our current reality and a deeper, unfulfilled aspiration. It’s our inner compass pointing out that somet...