Have you ever said or heard these words? But we tried that already. But it won’t work. But they won’t agree. The "but" stops the conversation. Instead, be curious and ask a question. Try these edits: But we tried that already . What can we do differently? But it won’t work .  What changes can we try? But they won’t agree . What parts are agreeable? "But" closes the door. Questions open it.

Communication can be too much. It also can be ineffective. Did you know that miscommunication costs US Businesses $1.2 trillion* each year? So what can we do about it? 1. Try another channel. If you are in your 3 rd round of angry emails or texts, then it is time to pause. Try a phone call, a voice note, or an in person meet-up. It is important for the other person to hear ‘how’ you are saying it. 2. Check in. When you have a group meeting to describe a project, to identify

When 2 people are in conflict, they feel stuck. Their conversations tend to repeat. Miscommunication continues. When a 3 rd  person joins them, it can feel like magic. What really happens is communication. I have been that 3 rd  person. I listen to each of them. I ask questions. I summarize. They listen. Then, I will hear: “Wow, I had no idea they were thinking THAT.” They are finally listening to each other, without assumptions. That can feel like magic. BONUS: watch a short

When we have too much to do, much of it goes undone. To start 2026, here are 5 Essential TO-DOs. Intentionally choose one. Do it. Keep on doing it. When you don’t have to think about it, it is your new habit. Then, it is time to move on to the next TO-DO. No matter how long it takes, do these 5 essential TO-DOs in 2026. Happy New Year! p.s. Click each 'TO-DO' to read what to do. 😊

A classic always delivers. Today, I’m bringing back one of my tips with a refresh.   Take that document you have been reviewing for edits and typos. Turn it upside down. Suddenly, you can see that missing comma on the 12th line, or the missing ‘e’ on the 18th line. Or maybe not?! Even if reading upside down is not your talent, the point is to change your view to hear and see better. Here’s a tip: for your next monthly meeting, arrive a few minutes early and sit in a different

Information overload is common and overwhelming for many of us. While it builds trust to be open with information, we don’t need to share it all at once. How can we apply this to meetings, during a project, or working with clients? Try this: > Avoid an information dump because it usually leads to overload. > Instead, figure out how to divide the information into right-sized morsels. How it worked for me: During a meeting, I provided everything they needed to know fo

When we say: "We need to talk,” with an emphasis on ‘need’, we cause fear, dread, AND flight. The listener expects a one-sided discussion, and to hear a list of mistakes & errors. Instead, if we want a conversation, then engage the person with our words. Try this: “Let’s grab a coffee and catch up.” Or try this: “I would love your feedback, so when can we meet?” Instead of someone dreading the conversation, the new versions sound like invitations to talk.