Who was the best boss you ever had? And why did you like them? I have asked dozens of people these questions. It’s an interesting way to learn about someone and sometimes a good conversation starter. But I have noticed that I almost always get some version of the same answer. The vast majority of people reminisce about a boss…
This article was originally published by Fast Company here. My wife and I have a tradition that dates back the entirety of our marriage. Nearly every Sunday night, we settle down to watch a movie together. We also occasionally watch shows on Friday or Saturday nights, but Sunday has a unique significance. Our Sunday night movie tradition started while my…
This article was originally published by Fast Company here. Writers in the film and television industries have recently gone on strike as their unions attempt to negotiate with studios on a number of issues. With the advent of streaming services and the massive disruption they have caused to the economic models of the entertainment industry, it’s no surprise that writers are trying…
“I need a vacation from my vacation!” Have you ever used that phrase? I know I have. On the way back from a trip that was supposed to be relaxing and fun, I’m so exhausted that I feel like I need another vacation to rest up before getting back into my normal work routine. As we head into summer with…
This article was originally published by Fast Company here. Momentum in sports is real. When a player is in the zone, it seems that everything happens in slow motion. They see where the ball is coming and where the competition is going. They feel every swing, every stroke, and every pass perfectly. But momentum can swing the other way, too.…
This article was originally published by Fast Company here. I have a few close people in my life who are older and much wiser than me. I love speaking with them and picking up perspectives and insights. Recently, I was in a meeting with one of them, and he used a term I hadn’t heard before as he spoke about…
This article was originally published by Fast Company here. I can’t remember a time when there was this much collective angst around work. From the Great Resignation to quiet quitting, work—and our satisfaction with it—is making headlines daily. Some of it may be editorial hand-wringing, but without a doubt, there’s a shift happening in how we perceive work and how…
This article was originally published by Fast Company here. If you’re fortunate enough not to be among those directly impacted by the mental health crisis in the United States, you’ve still likely heard about, read about, and been concerned about its ramifications. Chances are that someone you work with, live with, or are related to is suffering from a mental…
This article was originally published by Fast Company here. One of my favorite things to ask an audience of students and young professionals about is commitment. What does commitment mean? Why does someone commit to something? Do you prefer to be on a team of people who are committed to the team? Nearly everyone can explain commitment. In their answers,…