If a hermit can’t avoid relationship tensions, can you? Noah Rondeau’s strategy for dodging people conflicts was to avoid relationships altogether. The famous Adirondack Mountain hermit wrote that he was “not well satisfied with the world and its trends,” and moved to a remote area of the Cold River Wilderness at age 46, calling himself “The Mayor of Cold River City (Population 1).” Even in the wilderness, Rondeau couldn’t escape relationship challenges. He developed an en

At this time of year, it’s hard not to think about all the individuals who have had a hand in helping me stay above water throughout my lifetime. I bring to Thanksgiving a long list of “buoys.” I got thinking about what has meant the most to me in those key relationships. What became clear is that the people who have had the biggest impact have affected me mostly by their presence. By “presence,” I mean my connection with them was rooted not in expertise, advice or materi

Last month, I presented five leadership problems that confront today’s parents. I realize that many of my readers are not parents, and would not have found last month’s blog particularly relevant. That won’t happen this month. Virtually everyone has to contend with life outside the home – in workplaces, civic institutions, and enterprises of all kinds. With that in mind, I turn my attention to five of the most serious problems facing leaders of organizations. 1. Leade