The critical path is to help the team understand that everyone is working toward the same goal of success for the company. Spend more time seeking to understand another person’s workload and less time focused on the output. Be open and transparent. Assume positive intent. Inquire of shareholders how might you assist. Asking something as simple as this builds trust and teamwork. Realize a team either wins or loses: we cannot have winners and losers on the same team.

Managing stakeholder tensions over limited resources requires a strategic and diplomatic approach. I believe in fostering open communication, where all parties have a platform to express their concerns and priorities. Transparency in resource allocation builds trust and reduces conflicts. Additionally, setting clear criteria for decision-making ensures fairness and minimizes bias. Negotiation and compromise are key—finding mutually beneficial solutions can help align interests. If tensions persist, involving a neutral mediator can facilitate productive discussions. Ultimately, balancing stakeholder expectations while maximizing resource efficiency is crucial for maintaining collaboration and long-term success.

Limited resources is often a fallacy. Businesses invest in value, not resources. If you're facing pushback, the real issue is likely prioritization or a lack of communication about the value being lost by not pursuing available opportunities. Focus on clear commitments, ensure priorities are aligned, and highlight the opportunities to do more—rather than blaming lack of resources.