In a recent post, I presented a simple model for understanding what drives our behavior. According to the model, punishments (negative or unpleasant consequences) can reduce the likelihood that a behavior will repeat in the future. And, you might achieve partial success. Using only negative consequences might eliminate a “bad&# behavior. MORE >>

The diagram above shows a simplified model for better understanding what drives behavior. Since people often spend their lives studying and understanding what really drives our behavior, I am pretty confident that I cannot hope to fully cover the topic in this short post. We anticipate the outcome we want from that situation. The Positive Runs Out. MORE >>

Two questions I often get in workshops, from coaching clients, and in consulting engagements is: How do I work with an unmotivated person? How do I motivate someone to work harder? Here are the quick answers: There is no such thing as an unmotivated person. Everyone is motivated to do something. Therefore, everyone is motivated. MORE >>

Have you ever taken an action – either immediately or at some later time – based on what you heard someone say only to find out after you acted (or spoke) that you did not accurately understand their statement or request? So far, everyone I have asked this question in a face-to-face conversation answers pretty much the same way. Is that correct?”. MORE >>

Have you ever seen or been involved in a conflict conversation where one person said: “I knew that you were going to say that!&#. If you have, you probably noticed that the conflict intensity escalated from that point forward. This type of statement is aggressive. It leaves no room for the other person’s autonomy and self-control. MORE >>