Overcoming Resistance
In the world of community banking, leadership isn’t just about making strategic decisions or managing operations. It's about confronting and overcoming a pervasive and often invisible force—what Steven Pressfield calls "Resistance." This force is a universal adversary that manifests in procrastination, self-doubt, fear, and any form of avoidance that stops
Redefining Work for a Human-Centered Future
The importance of leadership becomes especially pronounced during times of significant change. As we recognize inherent flaws in our current understanding and implementation of work—highlighted by the alarming statistic that 52% of workers are disengaged—it becomes clear that effective leadership is crucial for navigating this transformation and driving meaning both
Behind the Numbers: The Energy of Community Banking
Community banking is about more than numbers on a balance sheet. It’s about the embodied energy—the trust, relationships and local expertise—that fuels every decision and action you take. Think about something as simple as a can of soda. While it may cost just a few dollars, its true value lies
Skilled Talent Tsunami: A “Just-in-Time” Discussion for Forward-Thinking Senior Execs
In the fast-paced world of community banking, staying ahead requires more than keeping up with regulations and technological advancements. It's also about securing the right talent to lead your organization into the future. As senior executives, you’re already feeling the pressure of an escalating skills shortage that impacts not only
The Allure of Empty Promises: Staying Vigilant in Community Banking
In one of his recent blogs, Seth Godin asks why do we often fall for the pitches of smooth talkers, con artists, demagogues and tricksters? As our world becomes more informed and rational, paradoxically, we see an increase in scams, hustles and chaos. As Community bankers you are particularly targeted by
The Best Available Option
In the fast-paced community banking world, the principle espoused by Seth Godin: “the best available option is always available,” holds profound significance. For CEOs, Seth’s mindset fosters a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability, essential for navigating the ever-changing financial landscape. Adopting a Proactive Approach Understanding that the best option is always
The Crisis Paradox in Community Banking
In the world of community banking, a fascinating paradox often emerges: we tend to celebrate those who excel in crisis management while overlooking the quiet effectiveness of those who prevent crises from arising. This insight, inspired by Keith Grint, brings to light a significant issue in our leadership and operational
The Resistance and Immunity to Change
In Steven Pressfield’s book, “The War of Art,” he talks about ‘Resistance’ as the collective term for the internal psychological barriers we all face—fear, self-doubt, complacency and old habits that once served us but now hold us back. This concept is critical when coaching community banks, where transforming into a
The Small Things: A Key to Community Bank Success
As community bank CEOs, you know that the small things really do matter. Overlooking the importance of details in preparation or planning can significantly impact our success. Admiral Hyman Rickover, the father of the Nuclear Navy, famously said: "The devil is in the details." Rickover's legacy is a testament to the power of
Empowering Women in Community Banking
Breaking Barriers. Building Success. In our journey toward excellence in community banking, leadership transcends the mere management of operations; it embodies the essence of fostering an inclusive environment where every individual is empowered to shine. Despite significant progress towards gender equality, the stark reality is that women in the banking sector continue