All or nothing is a trap

It's not Crossfit or zero exercise.

It's not perfect nutrition or all junk food.

It's not billionaire or a failure.

Few things in life are all or nothing, although we live in a world that amplifies extremes.

You can maximize your output and see dramatic, rapid changes based on your unique goals and available time. You don't have to choose between the extremes.

One way to avoid the trap of extremes when deciding to do something you "should do" is to ask: "What's the one small thing I can do to start trending in the right direction?"

The heart of empathy: the art of listening

Traditional schooling emphasizes three key communication skills: reading, writing, and speaking. We seem to have left out the fourth equally crucial skill: listening.

Listening is not a passive activity or a mere synonym for "hearing." The Toastmasters organization has been around for 100 years for good reason. Learning to organize thoughts and speak well is an important skill. It's a shame there's no equivalent for listening.

The ability to help people feel heard/seen is a life-changing, possibly life-saving skill. Great listening is the foundation of empathy. When people feel seen and heard it builds trust. One definition of "trust" is to feel safe enough to reveal your vulnerabilities to me, knowing that I won't exploit them.

Cultivating Growth: Lessons from Martial Arts and Gardening

Quoting one of my martial arts instructors: Great teachers create an environment where learning reveals itself.

Plant lovers don't "grow" plants; they create an environment that encourages growth (water, sunlight, etc.).

This post is not about martial arts or plants. The most profound responsibility for anyone in a role of leadership or influence is to create the optimal environment where growth can occur.