Abstract Thoughts #26
1 - WHAT I AM READING
Article: How to Keep Your Company Alive -- Observe, Orient, Decide and Act
Steve Blank is an incredible thought leader in the startup space. Simply put, this article should be required reading for all business operators. Full stop.
2 - WHAT I AM READING (x2)
Articles: Leading Through Coronavirus
It is more important than ever that we share leadership resources to empower those to lead where they are. Here are some curated articles from Leader to Leader with perspectives that leaders will find relevant and practical in the crucial weeks and months ahead.
Most view leadership through the lens of positional power (Who is the CEO? Who is the Director? Who is the Boss?) Although that is one form of power, anyone can lead from where they are regardless of the title they have. If you are able to step up, please do so, we need your leadership and we need your collaboration.
I spent last Saturday reading each article. My notes are linked here, but I also strongly recommend that you give the articles a read yourself. It is worth carving out the time. If you give these articles a read, let me know as leadership is one of my favorite topics to discuss!
3 - WHAT I AM WATCHING
UAB Entrepreneurship Speaker - Larry Lilley (YouTube)
I find myself re-watching this video talk from Larry Lilley of CTS (since acquired by CGI). We had Larry share his business story at the UAB Anvil back in 2018.
The one shocker that stood out to me then and especially today was that CTS grew revenue throughout the dot-com bubble *AND* the 07/08 financial crisis.
With COVID-19 and its implications, I find myself looking back in history to business operators who have survived crises like we are facing now to see what I can learn from their experience and apply these lessons to the present day. I hope you find it helpful.
‘til next time,
Max