Is It Time to Get Your Motor Running?

I read once that the modern internal combustion engine used to power most of our cars is incredibly inefficient.  Surprise huh?  The report stated that less than 20% of the energy produced actually went to power the car.  Even less makes it to the wheels to actually propel the car forward.  A vast majority of … Continue reading “Is It Time to Get Your Motor Running?”

My Magic Wand Is Broken. Can I Borrow Yours?

In the days of “Gotta have it now” we are always looking for the quick fix to our problems. I am constantly bombarded with ads telling me that their product or service is the answer to all my prayers. Continually the words simple, easy, fast, and guaranteed are used to demonstrate that little work on … Continue reading “My Magic Wand Is Broken. Can I Borrow Yours?”

The Harsh Realities of Public Opinion

Ever heard a story that you knew for all practical purposes is wasn’t true, but people embraced it anyway? Recently McDonalds experienced just that. http://yhoo.it/mcd_hoax McDonalds was subject to an attack that made them popular on Twitter for several days. Last week a picture popped up on Twitter showing what appeared to be a note … Continue reading “The Harsh Realities of Public Opinion”

Lacking a Clear Vision is Costly

I have noticed several surveys recently asking executives what are the biggest challenges that keep them up at night. Often one of the top responses is related to the lack of a clear or unified vision. Given the prevalence of this response, it appears to be a serious problem. I believe leaders want to provide … Continue reading “Lacking a Clear Vision is Costly”

Is Productivity Growth in the US Gone?

I recently read a McKinsey Quarterly article that debated that very question. (http://bit.ly/prod_growth) Good points were raised on both sides, and in the end, it will be the economy and job growth which will truly provide the answer for us. As a nation we have an amazing tradition of innovation which led to much of … Continue reading “Is Productivity Growth in the US Gone?”

Resolving to Really Change

It’s that time of year again. Whether by choice or mandated by your boss, goal setting and planning are often associated with the end of the calendar year. When I was in the corporate world, this time of year was a time when we set goals for the new year along with our expectations and … Continue reading “Resolving to Really Change”

Making Difficult Decisions

It’s amazing how many times we know the right thing to do, yet we fail to do it. I think w all have those times in our lives where we need to take action and we are reluctant to do so. Over my career, I have been fortunate to work with quite a few executives … Continue reading “Making Difficult Decisions”