Tension

If it’s not causing tension, then it’s not scary enough.

If it’s not scary enough, then you are probably looking for a guarantee.

If it’s guaranteed to work, then it leaves no room for failure.

And if it can’t fail, then it’s too safe.

If it’s safe, then there is too much compliance.

If you are looking for compliance, then you are looking for a map.

But leaders are map makers, not map readers.

If you are following instructions, then there isn’t much risk.

What kind of risk are you taking: is it real or perceived?

If it’s real and you need to run from a saber tooth tiger. Then RUN!

But if it’s not a saber tooth tiger in the bushes and it’s your boss wondering how far along you are on the TPS reports…then it’s not real.

It’s all invented.

If it’s all invented, then maybe we can tell a different story.

A better story: you are good enough.

Does that make you feel uncomfortable?

You are good enough to show us your best work.

If it’s going to be your best work, then you are going to take a beating.

Trolls will be trolling. Critics will criticizing. Haters will be hating.

That’s the price for admission.

Before you step on that stage, that moment is yours.

It’s tension.

Lean in.