AI
Robots Need Us More Than We Need Them (via HBR)
- Make AI more human and less artificial
- Manage info, don’t just amass it
- Unleash your employees’ talent
- Build adaptable, living systems
- We’re all tech companies now
Change management
Change Is Hard. Here’s How to Make It Less Painful. (via HBR)
Humans aren’t wired for frequent changes, as these are often perceived as threats. The techniques in this article help to bring about a mindset shift (difficult -> doable, costly -> rewarding, different -> normal). (1) Leaders need to increase understanding — what the change is, why it’s happening, and what benefit it brings. (2) Clarify and reinforce priorities by letting people know what’s not changing. (3) Give people choices and control to help reduce their fear and discomfort. (4) Give consistent support, and give people time to process the shift.
Collaboration
Where We Go Wrong with Collaboration (via HBR)
This article lists nine areas where collaboration can hinder us, leading to overcommitment.
Leadership
How to Be a Supportive Manager When Times Are Tough (via HBR)
- Take time to process your own emotions
- Acknowledge what’s happening
- Encourage self-compassion
- Ask people what they need
- Model self-care
5 Principles of Purposeful Leadership (via HBR)
- Be clear about your purpose.
- Be clear about your role (to create energy and momentum, to create the right environment for others to flourish).
- Be clear about who you serve (everyone is a customer).
- Be driven by values.
- Be authentic.
Process
How To Do Less (via Software Lead Weekly)
- Recognize when your current prioritization method has you thrashing.
- Two priorities… (1) keep the lights on, and make keeping them on cheaper, (2) minimize WIP in the roadmap
- The article has responses for typical expressions of disappointment, saying no, and correcting distractions.
Wellness
Stop Framing Wellness Programs Around Self-Care (via HBR)
The call to action is that leaders should focus on team members taking care of each other, instead of making care the individual’s responsibility. It benefits both the team and the individual.
Building Healthy Habits When You’re Truly Exhausted (via HBR)
- Start with sleep. Pick a bed time and form habits to wind down before then. Next, wake up at a consistent time.
- Think about nutrition. Always have water on hand. Ensure you make time to refuel, even if it’s protein bars or blocking off meal breaks on your calendar.
- Get moving. Aim of 75 minutes of vigorous cardio per week. If that’s too much, start small with stretching or walking.