For American children of a long-ago era, school was identified by the three R’s: reading, ‘(w)riting, and ‘(a)rithmetic. (True alliteration clearly was not in vogue.) Let’s consider a different set of the three R’s, those that can be used as measuring sticks for your work life, which may also be suitable in other arenas.

When visiting the city of London, travelers on the Tube, that city’s underground train line, quickly become accustomed to the phrase, “mind the gap.” It’s a concept that can help us to actually see the value in what isn’t there and being aware that the absence has an impact. Read more . . .

Thank you—one of the loveliest word combinations in the English language—or any other—when offered with warmth, true appreciation, and specificity. As your organization sends out its thank you letters, you are not only fulfilling an obligation but you are adding another link in your relationship with the donor. But here’s what you should know . . .

A recent news story highlighted the topic of “confirmation bias,” the very human tendency to seek and interpret evidence that confirms one's existing beliefs or theories. It impacts many aspects of our personal and professional lives. Here are some tips for challenging it.

I often find myself straddling a line between what is fading from my life and what seems destined to enter it. For example, keeping track of my contacts: I have a voluminous list on my cell phone, some of which includes information such as birthdays, notes about our last meeting, or connections to others in my contact list. But I also still have an old school Rolodex for business cards, a filing system which comes in handy –well, wait a minute . . .

Lighthouses are often emblematic of what’s solid, important, and unchanging. They represent hope, security, guidance, and protection. One of my favorite stories (no doubt apocryphal) follows and is illustrative of the permanence of lighthouses . . .

The tragic earthquake in Turkey and Syria has become yet another global tragedy in the headlines. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless to make some kind of difference—to feel that one has had some sort of impact in the midst of so many calamities. Here’s an approach to consider . . .  

There are many good reasons to call donors to simply provide a touch point rather than a solicitation: thank you for your gift/s, remember to RSVP to our gala, or offer a meeting with senior staff, especially in the midst of significant change. These calls are meant to build goodwill and nurture your relationships. Here are some tips for going about them in a meaningful way.

In our busy lives, too often we criticize ourselves for not doing more. The “if only I had enough time, fewer commitments, more resources” latches onto our thinking and drags us down. It’s time to stop punishing yourself and start recognizing the impact you make on those who are recipients of your kindness.

Given the high-stress environment all around us, it’s no wonder your work team might seem disengaged from their own role, their environment, or their colleagues. We have two suggestions to stir up enthusiasm for whatever work you are doing—whatever your role is.