The Voices in Our Heads

We have two very basic forms of thought: System 1 and System 2.
System 1 is intuitive, instinctual and automatic, makes us prone to look for patterns to better understand our world, and to seek meaning in events.
System 2 is the voice in our head – the narrator who never seems to shut up – that enables us to plan and think logically.

Insight
The first voice is that of our biases that have to be questioned, and the second the voice of our instincts that have to be evaluated and critically examined. Both require a deep dive within and thoughtful reflection.
#KnowYourself  #Connect2Coach

Filter for Leadership Ideas

“This consuming interest in leadership and how to make it better has spawned a plethora of books, blogs, TED talks, and commentary. Unfortunately, these materials are often wonderfully disconnected from organizational reality and, as a consequence, useless for sparking improvement.” - Jeffrey Pfeffer, McKinsey Quarterly

Insight
Ideas for sparking improvement of your leadership style need to be curated using a two level filter system:
Are they relevant to your organizational reality and context?
Do they feel a comfortable fit with who you are and where you want to go?
#KnowYourself   #Connect2Coach

A Career That Excites

“I wake up every day excited and daunted by all we have to do here at Instagram.” Instagram COO Marne Levine, to a question whether she would go back to her previous role in the government.

Insight
Without challenges, the work we do becomes routine and unexciting. If the challenge is that the work itself appears boring and holds no excitement for you, it is time to rethink your purpose and life goals. #Connect2Coach

Baseline Leadership Qualities

“Our human resource system must recognize people who are able to exercise judgement, who know when it is time for man or woman to make rules. This involves courage, heart, purity of intentions and a very human touch.” Ong Ye Kung, Minister, Singapore.

Insight
This list of baseline leadership qualities is a handy checklist for anyone aspiring for a leadership position. Discover,  Develop, Demonstrate your leadership strengths. #Connect2Coach

Picture: People Matters

Energy of Motivation

“Success is never owned; it is only rented -- and the rent is due every day.” - Author Rory Vaden

Insight
Success can either inflate our ego, or it can inflate our motivation to do even better. The first is least desirable.  The second, motivation, can create positive energy which should go into defining new priorities that emerge from the strength and the consequences of the success to create a new balance. #Connect2Coach