They say that ignorance is bliss, but, “they” (whoever they are) are wrong. Ignorance is fear – fear of facing what needs to be addressed.

For example, is it easier for you to not face the fact that you have more debt than assets, (not including your mortgage) which really means you are broke? Yes BROKE.

Is it easier for you to remain in your current job than to truly define your purpose and do what you are passionate about?

Have you set your 2009 goals to help you track toward your desired destination, or will another year slip by where someone or something else sets your course? Do you have an action plan designed to help you achieve your goals?

At 5.12 solutions, we believe that building strong teams requires a focus on People, Processes, Planning, and Performance. In fact, these 4 “Ps” are the foundation of 5.12 Solutions’ Innovative Team Model.

The Department of Defense built the first Global Positioning System (GPS) in the 1970’s. Consisting of 24 satellites that orbit the earth at about 11,000 miles, the system was originally designed to pinpoint the position of soldiers, weapons, and enemy targets. The Department of Defense never imagined that the advent of the GPS would spawn the booming sport of Geocaching (pronounced “gee o cashing”).

There is no shortage of technical skills in today’s workplace, but finding people who can effectively communicate, collaborate, and cooperate is a different story. One of the most sought after requests I hear from my clients, prospects, and girlfriend is the need for better communication.

f you had to guess what percentage your words, tone of voice, and body language contributes to how a person understands your message, what would you say? Most people respond with the notion that words are the most important aspect of communication. However, research* indicates that your words only impact 7% of how a message is understood. Your tonality contributes to 37% of what is understood and your body language 55%. So what does this mean to you? Communication should be intentional.

Your Words

Growth today is most likely going to be generated from improved productivity. What does that mean for your team? The dynamic and how well people work together will have a huge impact on productivity.
So, what can you do to improve your team dynamic?

I work with clients every week to help improve engagement, collaboration, retention, and productivity. And I know that when the term "performance management" comes up everyone either starts laughing or running. The fact of the matter is that if you fall into the trap of creating annual goals and then never reviewing them (individually and/or with your people), then skepticism is probably well founded, and you ARE wasting time.

I had already gone down the path of following some of my dreams. I'd moved to Colorado in 2001 where my passion for climbing could thrive. I'd bought a house, and I started a business. But something was holding me back. I had an addiction to nicotine that was controlling my life.