“So many advantages come from being willing to look like an idiot in the short term.

You stay silent in an important meeting, afraid to voice your critical thoughts and watch the project fail. You don’t write the novel because people might not read it. You don’t admit you were wrong and repeatedly make the same mistake. You don’t go to the gym because it means you would have to admit to not knowing what to do. You don’t ask the person out because you’re scared of rejection. You don’t start the business because you might fail. You don’t say sorry because you’re waiting for the other person to go first …

A few seconds of discomfort changes everything.”

The above comes from Farnam Street Blog 18 August. It is a an insightful read of at least 10 minutes which you can access here.

Melinda French Gates’s 1-Word Response to Her Divorce and Departure From the Gates Foundation Is a Lesson for Every Leader

In a letter to her former colleagues, French Gates expresses her gratitude.

The foundation the pair started 25 years ago was not only one of the largest private charity groups but also one of the most influential–giving away more than $78 billion since its inception. That French Gates was walking away was, and is, a big deal.

Here is a story which is evocative. Gratitude is arguably a vital leadership skill and evokes positive feelings in those appreciated. Don’t wait to start practising it! 2.5min read