Are You Being Supportive or Directive? Why Leaders Should Know the Difference

In leadership, one size does not fit all. Misjudge the environment, and your actions could be counterproductive. Recent and not so recent research confirms that the most effective leadership style should be in sync with the developmental needs of the person you’re leading. So, as a leader, do you know…

The Case for Easing the Grip on ‘Purpose’ in Leadership

There’s an innate sense within us, an intrinsic compass that propels us towards creation and contribution. It’s akin to how birds intuitively know when and where to migrate or how flowers just know when to bloom. I thought this sentiment was beautifully encapsulated by Matt Cooksey when he said, “We all have a natural impulse to create and contribute.”

How to Accelerate Skill Acquisition: The Science of Deliberate Practice

Over and over again, research has shown that experts are not born; they are made. So, how can you fast-track your journey towards becoming the expert in the room?

The Psychological Edge of the using ‘Twelve-Weeks’ rather than a ‘Quarter’

I recently had a thought-provoking conversation with one of my clients about setting targets for their team. We discussed the difference between referring to a time period as “twelve weeks” versus a “quarter.” A seemingly subtle distinction that holds significant psychological benefits and can impact how your team approaches goals…

7 tips for a healthier relationship with your phone

If we’re totally honest, we all know that we spend far too long staring or scrolling on our phones. I am definitely guilty (but getting better!). I loved these seven tips from Paul Levy, Professor at the University of Brighton (and an long time chum of mine).  Have a read below,…

Meeting Cost Calculator – a terrifying and brilliant way to identify the true cost of excessive meetings

Purposeless and ineffective meetings quite literally litter calendars thousands of times a year – in fact, perhaps you’ve just left one… or perhaps you’re just about to go into one…  Despite ‘knowing’ that teams need maker time – which is significantly hindered by frequent meeting interruption – leaders continue to…

Wild Geese. A beautiful poem on leading a good life.

‘Wild Geese’ is a poem, written by Mary Oliver, that expresses what you must do in order to lead a good life. It’s beautiful. Wild Geese You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees For a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. You…

Say no cards. A simple idea.

Thanks to Katie Brown for sharing this simple, effective little idea from Instagram. Here’s how it works: Saying no is powerful. This is a really good way to rewire yourself. Here’s a link to the Instagram video. Andy

The Power of Maker Time.

“How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives. What we do with this hour, and that one, is what we are doing. A schedule defends from chaos and whim. It is a net for catching days. It is a scaffolding on which a worker can…

Walking is good for the brain

Go for walks, it’s a simple and free unlock for life… Thanks to Pascal Barnet for bringing the below image to my attention. Now is as good a time as any! Andy