Week 24.16 Total Eclipse

Yesterday, as I stood on the boardwalk along the Hudson River in New York, I found myself captivated by the reactions of those around me as we witnessed the awe-inspiring solar eclipse. As the moon gradually obscured the sun, the light dimmed, the temperature dropped, and the world took on a more specular quality. Amidst this celestial spectacle, I couldn't help but reflect on the powerful lessons this event held for us as leaders and individuals. The experience was not just visually stunning but also emotionally profound, as it drew us all together in a shared moment of wonder and unity.

During the eclipse, the light changed in ways we rarely experience. The dimming of the sun, the cooling of the air, and the otherworldly quality of the light all served as reminders that leadership often calls upon us to see differently and experience our work and the people we work with more expansively. Just as the eclipse challenged our usual perceptions, great leaders must be willing to step back from their habitual ways of seeing and embrace new perspectives that can illuminate hidden opportunities and reveal the untapped potential in those around them. This requires a level of openness and adaptability, a willingness to let go of preconceived notions and embrace the unfamiliar. By doing so, we can tap into a deeper well of creativity and innovation, discovering new solutions to old problems and uncovering the hidden strengths of our teams.

As the eclipse reached its peak, I was struck by the way it brought everyone together, united in a shared experience. On the boardwalk, people from all walks of life had paused their daily routines to witness this celestial event, and I knew this sense of unity was being replicated in countless places across the country. In that moment, we were all eclipse watchers, bound together by a common experience that transcended our everyday differences. As leaders, we must recognize the power of shared experiences in creating a sense of community and kinship among those we love and lead. By fostering moments that bring people together and break down barriers, we can cultivate a deeper sense of connection and purpose within our teams and organizations. Whether it's through team-building activities, shared goals, or simply taking the time to celebrate successes together, these moments of unity can have a profound impact on morale, collaboration, and overall performance.

Finally, the eclipse reminded me of the importance of looking beyond the brightest light in our field of view. Normally, the sun's brilliant glare obscures the delicate beauty of its corona, but during the eclipse, the moon's shadow allowed us to glimpse this hidden wonder. In life and leadership, we too can sometimes be blinded by the most obvious or dominant forces at play, causing us to overlook the quieter brilliance that lies just beyond our immediate gaze. As leaders, we must train ourselves to look past the dazzling distractions and seek out the subtle but significant contributions of those whose talents and insights might otherwise be eclipsed. This requires a level of curiosity and attentiveness, a willingness to listen deeply and value the unique perspectives of each individual. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and equitable environment, one in which every voice is heard and every contribution is celebrated.

As I reflect on the lessons of the solar eclipse, I am reminded of the transformative power of these celestial events, not just in the sky above but in the hearts and minds of those who witness them. By embracing new perspectives, fostering shared experiences, and seeking out the hidden brilliance in those around us, we can elevate our leadership and enrich the lives of those we love and lead. In doing so, we may just discover that the moments of greatest darkness and obscurity often hold the key to our most profound insights and growth, much like the revelations that emerge in the shadow of a total eclipse.

With love, gratitude and wonder.

Scott

Saddened by the passing of a great thinker and human being, Daniel Kahneman by Marshall Goldsmith

“Nothing in life is as important as you think it is, while you are thinking about it”. - Daniel Kahneman Daniel was a Nobel laureate and pioneer in the field of behavioral psychology.

He advocated for policies informed by an understanding of human behavior, and that to effectively tackle issues such as poverty, health, and education, we must consider the psychological and social contexts that shape those decision-making processes.

Martin Lindstrom and Marshall had the pleasure of talking with Daniel on the M&M show a few years ago. In this clip, they discuss "the noise audit," a method for identifying noise in an organization's decision-making.

Your Boss Is Keeping Secrets from You by Bruce Kasanoff

In his post, Bruce Kassanoff reveals six insider secrets that shed light on the realities of the workplace. He emphasizes that bosses, even those in high positions, navigate complex systems and are accountable to others. Employees can sometimes leave their bosses confused with their actions, so it's crucial to be mindful of one's behavior. Kassanoff stresses the importance of developing a standout skill to ensure job security in today's competitive market. He also encourages employees to know their worth and not sell themselves short regarding compensation. Confidence is vital in unlocking potential, and Kassanoff suggests various tactics to boost self-confidence. He reminds readers that bosses are human, too, dealing with numerous challenges such as shifting budgets, bureaucratic hurdles, and evolving technology. A little empathy can go a long way in the workplace. Kassanoff admits he hasn't had a boss since 1999, so his advice should be taken with a grain of salt.

3 Must Read Autobiographies of High Achieving Women by Ruth Gotian, Ed.D., M.S.

This article explores the leadership journeys of three remarkable women who have shattered glass ceilings in their respective industries: Eileen Collins (first female Space Shuttle commander), Jennifer McCollum (incoming CEO of Catalyst), and Lisa Lutoff-Perlo (first female CEO of a major cruise line).

Through their autobiographies, these pioneers offer invaluable lessons on overcoming obstacles, leading with authenticity and empathy, and driving positive change. Collins' unwavering determination, McCollum's emphasis on resilience and self-reflection, and Lutoff-Perlo's purpose-driven leadership philosophy serve as blueprints for aspiring leaders across all sectors.

Despite the differences in their fields - aerospace, leadership development, and cruising - the core lessons from their experiences are universally applicable. Their stories underscore the transformative power of perseverance, learning from the past, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. For anyone seeking to make their mark as a leader, these autobiographies are a must-read.