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Are you ready?
This month I am going to ask you to look at something that isn’t that pleasant to look at. Loss. A week ago, my biological father died unexpectedly. On some levels we were ready; on others, nobody was ready. I am challenging you to ask yourself if you are ready for that kind of loss.…
Is it really noisy or is it just me?
When was the last time you stopped and noticed the noise around you? Just stop right now and listen. It’s not just the keys on the computer keyboards being used by people in the office, or the wind outside, or the truck driving by, it’s internal noise as well. We are bombarded with so much…
Are you intellectually benevolent?
Benevolence has to do with being generous, giving and kind. This month, I am wondering if you are intellectually generous, giving and kind, or do you find yourself far too quick to judge or evaluate someone or something else simply because they are different than you or what you believe? I am on Facebook personally,…
Surviving the Storms of Life
I am stunned, as I know you are, at the utter devastation and chaos that is being experienced in Mississippi and Louisiana as I write this. I urge you to find a way to help. The Red Cross, as an example, is desperate for donations. As I was watching CNN last night I was amazed…
How complex does it really need to be?
Many of you know that I took a 5400 mile ride on my Harley in August from Florida to South Dakota through Moab,Utah the Colorado Rockies then home. I was gone for 14 days. For two weeks I had my bike, a bag strapped to my sissy bar and a back pack. Had the time…
Does Sturgis SD matter to you? It should!
As you read this, I am on my way to (or perhaps already in) Sturgis for the 75th annual motorcycle rally. It’s THE biker event of the year. Whether you ride or don’t isn’t relevant. The rally matters because of what it means to me and to most of those that attend. It represents community,…
Peace on Earth?
The holiday season is here. Doesn’t feel very cheery, does it? The sentiment this time of year, regardless of the way you celebrate or whether you celebrate at all, is centered around the idea of peace. Let’s face it – you can’t really make a case for peace on earth at this point in human…
How do you manage your moods & emotions?
The management of moods is key to a life of purpose and productivity. Too many people believe that being in a “good mood” is best. They attempt to talk you out of a “bad mood.” Perhaps you tend to be hard on yourself when your mood is down or anxious or angry or any of…
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MONDAYS WITH MIKE POST ARCHIVE
Happy New Year 2025
Episode Summary: In this New Year-themed episode, Mike Staver shares an inspiring message to set the tone for the year ahead. He advises against traditional New Year’s resolutions, which often fade quickly, and instead suggests choosing a single word to define your focus and intention for the year. Reflecting on his own options, such…
Merry Christmas 2024
Episode Summary: In this heartfelt holiday message, Mike Staver extends warm wishes for peace, joy, and renewal during the festive season. He emphasizes the value of graciously accepting holiday greetings, regardless of how they are expressed, and highlights the season as a time for hope, connection, and generosity. Acknowledging that the holidays may not…
Coaching vs Criticism
Episode Summary: In this episode of Mondays with Mike, Mike Staver addresses a question about team members who perceive coaching as criticism rather than support. He explains that the key to shifting this mindset lies in changing the approach to coaching itself. Instead of focusing on feedback, Mike emphasizes the importance of asking thoughtful…
Coaching Without Sacrificing Speed
Episode Summary: In this episode of Mondays with Mike, Mike Staver tackles a leadership challenge: integrating coaching into leadership practices without slowing down decision-making or sacrificing speed. He emphasizes that effective coaching can actually increase the pace of organizational performance by enhancing team members’ skills and competence. While coaching may take time initially, it…
Coaching Problem Solving
Episode Summary: In this episode of Mondays with Mike, Mike Staver addresses a common leadership question: how to balance providing guidance with allowing team members to solve problems independently. He emphasizes the importance of observing performance, evaluating its quality, and adjusting leadership style accordingly. Mike outlines a flexible, situational approach to coaching that focuses…
Happy Thanksgiving 2024
Episode Summary: In this special Thanksgiving episode of “Mondays with Mike,” host Mike Staver shares a heartfelt message about the true power of gratitude. Mike explores the difference between thankfulness, which resides in the mind, and gratitude, which comes from the heart and spirit. He encourages viewers to not only think about what they’re…
Managing Underperformance
Episode Summary: In this episode of “Mondays with Mike,” host Mike Staver answers a question from a manager struggling to address an underperforming employee without appearing harsh or dismissive. Mike offers a clear, step-by-step approach for handling the situation effectively. He starts by emphasizing the importance of clarity—leaders must first ensure they have clearly…
Managing Stress & Decision-Making
Episode Summary: In this week’s episode of “Mondays with Mike,” host Mike Staver dives into a common challenge faced by leaders managing high-stakes projects: how to reduce stress to make clearer decisions. Mike explores practical strategies that allow leaders to manage stress effectively without compromising leadership quality. Key among these strategies is the concept…
Professionalism
Episode Summary: In this week’s episode of “Mondays with Mike,” host Mike Staver addresses a crucial question from a manager in his 50s, who expresses frustration with young employees frequently using their phones during meetings and social settings. Mike confirms that this behavior is not only unprofessional but also a sign of disengagement, potentially…
Burnout
Hi, everybody. I’m Mike Staver. This is Mondays with Mike, a weekly video series where I answer questions from people just like you. Here’s this week’s question. “I’m in the helping business I help others every day. I’m burned out, and I really cannot talk to anyone about the sadness and discouragement I feel…
State of Leadership
Hi, everybody. I’m Mike Staver. This is Mondays with Mike, a weekly video series where I answer questions from people just like you. Here’s this week’s question. “What is your opinion on the overall state of leadership? And what is one thing you would change?” I think, overall, leaders are too timid in their…
Fostering a Culture of Innovation
Hi, everybody. I’m Mike Staver. This is Mondays with Mike, a weekly video series where I answer questions from people just like you. Here’s this week’s question. “How can individuals and organizations foster a culture of innovation and adapt to the rapidly changing job market and technological advances?” You guys are getting legit on…