What I'm Reading: Jan 2025 Edition
My occasional share on the articles I've read that made an impact on me
It’s been too long since I shared some of the things I’ve read that influence my thinking, so here goes (all links are free)…
10 Ways to Keep Your Mind Healthy in 2025 (Seattle Times)
Exercising your brain is as important as exercising your body.
Sahil Bloom: Things you can do to change your life (via Twitter)
I’m an admirer of Mr. Bloom - an investor, entrepreneur an author.
Where Have All the Managers Gone? (WSJ via MSN)
I include this because people might ‘misthink’ the concept. The mass elimination of mid-level managers is a phenomena currently is limited to huge corporations.
But what applies to all businesses, based on what I see with our clients, is the lack of trained managers. People are getting promoted because they’re the hardest worker, or have the most seniority, or kiss the most butt. But those traits don’t automatically make someone an effective manager.
What’s also true is fewer and fewer people want to be in management. These two trends are concerning for the future of small- and mid-size organizations.
Employees are Unhappy But Not Leaving (Gallup)
Gallup’s most recent polling show employee satisfaction with their job is at a record low.
What’s different is until recently, unhappy employees were leaving their jobs. Now - and this might be worse - those employees are still unhappy, but they aren’t quitting.
There’s nothing worse than an unhappy employee. The good news is there are lots of things leaders can do about it.
And finally…The Kike Hernandez Factor
My favorite Dodger for the past several years is Kike Hernandez. He’s the definition of an “agile” employee.
Championship teams don’t just rely on home run hitters; you need players like Kike who enthusiastically do whatever is asked. He plays catcher one day, then outfield, or second base. He bats anywhere in the order.
And he does unglamorous things like bunting, hitting sacrifice flies or taking extra pitches so runners on base can steal.
And what a clutch performer he is during the playoffs. He started the 5-run rally in the deciding game of the World Series by breaking up a no-hitter in the 5th inning.
It’s therefore no surprise that he’s loved by his teammates and coaches. He does whatever it takes with a smile on his face.
The home run hitters get the glamour, but give me a team full of Kike’s and I’ll succeed every time.