In every organisation, values shape the culture and direction. But here’s the key — they must come from the top and be clearly defined. Without a strong definition, values become just words without substance. When leaders have a crystal-clear understanding of their core values, it sets the foundation for decision-making, team behavior, and long-term success.
✨ Whether it's integrity, accountability, or innovation, well-defined and lived values create alignment and inspire teams to thrive. It’s more than just talk — it’s a way of being.
Tune in to the latest episode of the Life Long Learner Podcast, where we explore how leaders can define and live their values to build a culture that lasts! 🎙️ #Leadership #ValuesDriven #LifeLongLearnerPod #OrganizationalCulture #LeadByExample #CoreValues
Our recent episode - Learning from Alina Cahill - Following your values. Alina talks about the importance of a leader continually sharing the vision and trusting their people have the granular details sorted.
#leadership #values #vision
Episode 107. Out Of Class - Burn the boats, Commitment Squads and Motivation
Success isn't just about individual effort—it's about the people you surround yourself with. Whether you're aiming for personal goals or competing at the highest level, having a support system that champions you is key. They’ll keep you in check, even when you're tempted by something as small as an extra snack before competition. Surround yourself with those who push you to stay focused and hold you accountable to your goals.
Episode 107. Out Of Class - Burn the boats, Commitment Squads and Motivation
When feeling overwhelmed by a distant goal, focusing on the process can make a big difference. Instead of fixating on the end result, concentrate on the daily tasks and weekly progress. This approach shifts the mindset from daunting challenges to manageable steps, making the journey more achievable and less stressful.
Episode 106 Learning from Derrick McManus - Going Beyond Resilience
Derrick highlights the concept of consequences as a double-edged sword, typically associated with negative outcomes that require accountability and reflection. However, he challenges the common narrative by emphasizing the importance of also recognizing and discussing positive consequences.
By analyzing the choices and actions that lead to good outcomes, Derrick believes individuals and teams can intentionally repeat successful behaviors, fostering more positive results in the future.
Episode 106 Learning from Derrick McManus - Going Beyond Resilience
Derrick developed the idea of preparing for challenges by envisioning both natural and ideal responses to extreme situations. Inspired by a conversation with his wife, he explored how to effectively manage challenges by considering the natural fight-or-flight response and planning for a more controlled, ideal reaction.
Derrick emphasizes the importance of mental preparedness, highlighting how managing the mind can help navigate crises with greater effectiveness.
Episode 106 Learning from Derrick McManus - Going Beyond Resilience
Adversity is a significant barrier to creativity, as it triggers the fight-or-flight response, redirecting blood flow away from the prefrontal cortex, where higher-level thinking and problem-solving occur.
Derrick explains that by breaking the tension caused by adversity and relaxing the body and mind, blood flow can return to the prefrontal cortex, allowing for clearer thinking and smarter decision-making. He emphasizes that even in challenging situations, staying relaxed can enable the mind to operate at its highest level, facilitating effective problem-solving.
Episode 105. Out Of Class - What have you learned from your hobbies?
Immersing yourself in the learning process allows progression to come naturally through experience, much like learning to walk after countless falls. A key lesson is to focus on where you want to go, rather than letting fear dictate your attention, as the mind often tricks you into looking where you don't want to end up. Remembering and applying this simple principle can lead to moments of success.
Episode 105. Out Of Class - What have you learned from your hobbies?
Rigid planning can sometimes limit opportunities for unexpected success, as deviating from a plan can lead to outcomes better than originally imagined. Holding too tightly to an ideal vision can cause disappointment when things don’t go as expected, but flexibility allows for positive surprises. It's important to focus on the overall experience and broader outcomes rather than getting caught up in specific details.
Episode 105. Out Of Class - What have you learned from your hobbies?
Navigating the balance between sticking to your preferred approach and letting go when it’s not essential is crucial in leadership and teamwork. It's important to assess whether something truly matters and if it is worth holding onto, especially if there is a another way to get you there.
Episode 105. Out Of Class - What have you learned from your hobbies?
Without contrast, we do not have much...
The value of contrast plays a crucial role in enhancing our experiences. It's the cold, brisk air that makes the warmth of a car feel so comforting, just as rainy days make sunny ones more appreciated. In life and business, challenges and tough times are necessary to truly appreciate success and good moments, as it’s the contrast between the two that deepens our sense of joy.
Episode 104 Learning from Rebecca Block - Connect first, then teach.
Let’s face it—some of the best learning moments happen outside the classroom! Extracurricular programs are where the magic happens, filling in the gaps that traditional education sometimes misses. Whether it’s drama, sports, coding, or art, these programs offer students the chance to make choices that matter, learn real-world skills, and build strong connections with peers and mentors.
And guess what? That sense of connection? It’s often the secret sauce that makes students really engaged—sometimes even more than the subject itself!
