This is an abbreviated version of the newsletter. Starting in February, look for some new features to help you be a more effective leader.

Thank you to all who reviewed the problem solving video and left comments. I appreciate your thoughts. The video will remain available until January 15th.Watch the Video Now!

This month's article is one that I wrote for Darren Johnson's Letting Go Cafe.

I was at a dinner recently with a group of people on the verge of college graduation. It was way too quiet, and I didn't know anyone at the table so I took it upon myself to get the conversation started. I suggested introductions then used the time-honored, yet somewhat lame question, “what are your plans?”

I was lucky and it worked this time as everyone began discussing their plans for the future; a dream job, advanced degrees, and even some entrepreneurial spirit. They each seemed enthusiastic but there was a common thread to what they said. They were going to have to start at the bottom again. The natural cycle of ups and downs is one of life's cruel ironies. We start at the bottom and claw our way to the top only to start at the bottom again if we want to continue moving forward.

Please read the rest of this article at the Letting Go Cafe.