The Spinach Boat

No. 186

For a long time I’ve said, “we want the right person in the right seat on the bus.” The problem is, a bus only has passengers. There’s no control, no real effort.

We don’t need people sliding into their seat somewhere in the back and putting in their headphones. We need people who want to get on our ship. Or we’ll get on theirs. A big Viking ship. Not the pillage kind, the adventure and discover kind. Big bow. Long oars. Us pulling through giant North Atlantic waves. Blisters becoming callouses all leaning in together on the way to finding something. Part adventure, part work, all impact. Sometimes you man the tiller or the sails. But one thing is sure: no room for riders.

The Problem with Spinach

It’s forty-five minutes into that important business lunch. You feel good. You’ve been smiling, making your points. Everyone’s nodding. They you duck into the restroom. Close the door, slide the lock, turn and catch your reflection. There it is. Spinach in your teeth.

Everyone wants to know when they have something in their teeth. Most of us hesitate to say anything. So let’s talk about spinach management. If there is a truth, say it. Most people are grateful you did. How can we possibly solve hard problems if we don’t know the truth?

The first is about the kind of person we want. The second is how we should behave. The right crew. Right conversations. Right action. That’s how we get anywhere worth going.

Take care. Be good. - Kelly

PS: Like most things, no original thoughts. Credit goes to the Scottish guy I work with, Dave.