If you are slow to call yourself an artist because you have negative associations with the term (artists are supposed to be unpredictable, erratic, unreliable and snobby) or because you feel unworthy (at the moment) to put yourself in the same category as the greats. Don't worry you're not alone. Meryl Streep once said: "I … Continue reading Labels →

I think the downside of a 'How to' book is that it leaves little room for the reader to think. Instructions, once laid out, are there to follow or not. I think there's no great rumination or epiphanies with a step by step guide. There's no inviting the user to view the entire subject matter … Continue reading How to books →

I've come across an interesting phenomenon in human behaviour, that I'm going to try and outline here for you. When Carol cheats on Ross, she's written off as a callous wench. But when Carol cheats on Ross with Susan and surprises everyone with the widening of her sexual spectrum, Carol receives more sympathy. All of … Continue reading Number seven →

You go to schedule a social media post but you realise your colleague never gave you the approved text. So you start to write a message when you remember you owe this colleague a report. The unfinished report reminds you of data issue you need to speak with your manager about and all of a … Continue reading The yak shaving choice →

I think saying yes to everything is never a good long term strategy. You don't have unlimited time and energy, eventually the promisees discover you can't fulfill your promises and you're setting someone else up to be the villain (someone who will not thank you for this). Hearing 'no' is disappointing but it's a lot … Continue reading Yes to everything →

I think brainstorming is too fun to just hear an idea and simply respond positively. That's why when all you sought was feedback for your idea instead you got an avalanche of more ideas. Ideation is infectious.

It's never the first answer. When you're asking deep meaningful questions, the first answer can be dismissed as surface level. The reply is usually glib or an attempt at humour. But I find if you keep asking why, the answers start to take on more depth. Until finally you hit the root of the problem … Continue reading Never the first answer →

Hugo knew the answer so he raised his hand. The teacher called on Hugo and sure enough he was right. Hugo was delighted with himself. The teacher asked another question. Hugo felt he knew this answer too. And sure enough he was right again. Hugo was absolutely loving this. Well at least he was until … Continue reading Hugo’s hurt →

"That's just how they are, you'll just have to get used to them" I think a relationship is doomed from the beginning if compromise is the responsibility of only one party. I think when both sides adapt it develops trust, shows respect and displays a commitment for the long term. I think when only one … Continue reading Co-compromise →

I think we're all social creatures and deep down everyone wants to connect. But not everyone knows how to. Therefore those who can sense an individual longing to join in and facilitate their connection to others posseses an invaluable and generous skill.