personal growth – Page 3 – Success Strategies

10 Ways To Help You Achieve Your Goals

Goals are the links in the chain that connect activity to accomplishment. —Zig Ziglar

Another year filled with regret at not achieving the goals Sabrina had set. Throughout her career she had helped others achieve their goals, yet it was at the expense of achieving her own personal goals. Something has to give.

If you are like Sabrina, here are some practical steps to help you achieve your goals:

1.Break Down Large Goals

Divide big goals into smaller, manageable sub-goals
Create a step-by-step action plan
Make each milestone specific and measurable
Set realistic timelines for each sub-goal

2.Develop a Concrete Action Plan

Write down your goals in detail
Specify exactly what you want to achieve
Include specific deadlines
Identify potential obstacles in advance
Create strategies to overcome these obstacles

3.Prioritize and Track Progress

Use tools like:

Goal tracking apps
Physical planners
Digital spreadsheets

Regularly review and assess your progress
Adjust your plan if needed
Celebrate small victories along the way

4. Build Accountability

Share your goals with trusted friends/family
Find an accountability partner
Join support groups related to your goals
Consider working with a coach or mentor

5. Develop Consistent Habits

Create daily/weekly routines supporting your goals
Practice discipline and consistency
Use habit-tracking techniques
Start small and gradually build momentum

Goals: Killing me Softly

6. Enhance Motivation

Visualize success
Create a motivational vision board
Use positive affirmations
Reward yourself for reaching milestones
Maintain a growth mindset

7. Continuous Learning

Acquire necessary skills
Read relevant books/materials
Take courses
Seek mentorship
Stay updated in your goal’s domain

8. Manage Time Effectively

Use time management techniques
Prioritize tasks
Eliminate distractions
Practice focused work sessions
Use productivity tools

9. Practice Self-Care

Maintain physical and mental health
Get adequate rest
Exercise regularly
Practice stress management
Maintain a balanced lifestyle

10. Stay Flexible and Resilient

Accept that setbacks will happen
Learn from failures
Be adaptable
Maintain a positive attitude
Continuously reassess and adjust your approach

Follow these steps to achieve your goals as you step into a new phase of your career. Need help? Let’s connect

Cheers!

Why Year-End Triggers Career Reflection

You can get excited about the future. The past won’t mind. ~Hillary DePiano

The end of the year naturally invokes a period of career reflection, which serves as a psychological milestone that compels professionals to pause and assess their journey. As the calendar approaches its final weeks, individuals are instinctively drawn to introspection, triggered by a combination of cultural traditions, personal goal-setting practices, and an innate human desire for growth and meaning. This time of reflection is fueled by the contrast between the year’s accomplishments and unfulfilled aspirations, creating the opportunity for honest self-evaluation (hint …that common ideal weight loss plan).

Natural Evaluation Period

Annual performance reviews
Reflecting on past year’s achievements
Setting new personal goals
Psychological reset moment

Emotional Triggers

Holiday season brings perspective
Family gatherings prompt life discussions
Increased time for self-reflection
Motivation from new year anticipation

Professional Burnout

Accumulated workplace stress
Desire for meaningful change
Recognizing current job’s limitations
Seeking personal fulfillment

External Evaluation

Social conversations about resolutions
Seeing others make bold moves
Increased motivational content
Feeling inspired by potential

Strategic Approach

Budget reassessment
Career growth opportunities
Market trend observations
Personal development planning

Motivational Approach

Embrace fear as growth signal
Start with small, low-risk steps
Build confidence gradually
Seek professional guidance
Create solid transition plan

Recommended Actions

Self-assessment
Skill inventory
Informational interviews
Part-time exploration
Professional coaching
Continuous learning

Are you experiencing any of these signs? If so, it’s time to do something about it. Adapt the motivational approach along with the recommended actions. But if you need the expertise of a coach who can help. Better yet, purchase a gift certificate for a friend experiencing these signs and help him/her kick off the new year with a difference.

From Fear to Freedom: Conquering Career Transition Doubts

Fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life; and the process is its own reward. —Amelia Earhart

Fear is real. Sometimes it retards us. Most times it’s just in our mind yet causes us to feel stuck, unable to make the move that we desire. Common is the fear to leave a career, change jobs, or reach for that promotion as we question ourselves. So, we stay where we are and before long months turn into years, years into decades and we remain in the same place.

So what can you do about it? Here is a concise breakdown of career change fears and year-end motivation.

Why Year-end Triggers Career Reflection

Common Career Change Fears

1.Financial Uncertainty

Potential income reduction
Financial stability risks
Fear of economic instability
Concerns about supporting family

2.Identity Loss

Defined by current professional role
Fear of starting over
Loss of established professional status
Questioning self-worth

3. Skill Gap Anxiety

Feeling underqualified
Learning curve intimidation
Self-doubt about adaptability
Imposter syndrome

4.Comfort Zone Resistance

Familiar routine feels safe
Fear of unknown
Risk aversion
Psychological safety in current job

Are you experiencing any of these signs? If so, it’s time to do something about it. Talk with a trusted friend or coach who can help. Better yet, purchase a gift certificate for a friend experiencing these signs and help him/her kick off the new year with a different start. Conquer those transition doubts.

Cheers!

Making Big Decisions: Head Or Heart?

Decisions. Decisions

A new year paves the way for ‘change’. As we approach 2025 many of us will make decisions that will impact our lives. Decisions in our entrepreneurship roles, decisions in our relationships, career (stay or go), and in our personal and professional lives.

The question was asked on social media about decision-making. When making decisions do you make them using your ‘head’ or ‘heart’. Respondents quickly chimed in with 29% preferred ‘head’, while 71% preferred ‘heart’. Decided to break down head decisions vs. heart decisions and analyze their roles and characteristics in decision-making.

Head Decisions (Rational / Logical)

Characteristics:

Based on facts and data
Relies on analysis and reasoning
Focuses on practical outcomes
Uses systematic evaluation
Considers long-term consequences
Weighs pros and cons objectively
Driven by logic and evidence

Best Used For:

Financial decisions
Business strategies
Career choices
Investment planning
Risk assessment
Legal matters
Technical problems

Heart Decisions (Emotional / Intuitive)

Characteristics:

Based on feelings and intuition
Relies on personal values
Focuses on emotional satisfaction
Uses gut instincts
Considers personal fulfillment
Weighs emotional impact
Driven by passion and purpose

Best Used For:

Personal relationships
Creative pursuits
Life purpose decisions
Value-based choices
Personal fulfillment
Passion projects
Meaningful connections

Which is Better?

Neither is “better” – both have their place

Integrated Approach:

Best decisions often combine both
Head ensures practicality
Heart ensures alignment with values
Balance creates sustainable choices

Context Matters:

Some situations need more logic
Others need more emotional intelligence
Most benefit from both perspectives

Decision Framework: Best Practice: Use Both

Heart: Initial guidance
Head: Validation and planning
Heart: Final gut check

When to Lean More on Head:

High-risk situations
Financial commitments
Legal matters
Complex problems
Strategic planning

When to Lean More on Heart:

Life purpose decisions
Personal relationships
Career passion
Creative endeavors
Value-based choices

Integration Tips:

Start with heart to identify what matters
Use head to evaluate feasibility
Check back with heart for alignment
Plan execution with head
Monitor satisfaction with heart

Warning Signs: Head-Only Decisions:

Feels empty or unfulfilling
Lacks personal meaning
May lead to regret
Could miss opportunities

Heart-Only Decisions:

May be impractical
Could be financially risky
Might lack sustainability
Could be too impulsive

Real-World Example: Career Change Decision:

Heart: Identifies passion and desired impact
Head: Evaluates market demand, salary, skills needed
Heart: Confirms emotional alignment
Head: Creates transition plan
Both: Monitor progress and satisfaction

Recommendation

Use a Balanced Approach:

Start with heart to understand what you truly want
Use head to evaluate feasibility and plan
Check back with heart for alignment
Execute with head’s planning
Monitor with both heart and head

Decision-Making Process:

Identify the type of decision
Consider the stakes involved
Use appropriate balance of both
Create evaluation criteria
Make and implement decision
Review and adjust as needed

Questions to Ask: Head Questions:

What are the facts?
What are the risks?
What are the long-term consequences?
What resources are required?

Heart Questions:

How does this feel?
Does this align with my values?
Will this bring fulfillment?
What does my intuition say?

Points to Note

The best decisions often come from balanced input from both head and heart
Different situations require different balances
Practice integrating both perspectives
Trust both your logic and your intuition
Monitor outcomes using both metrics

So there you have it. A thorough overview of when and how to make decisions with your head and heart. What type of decision-maker are you? Head or Heart? Do share, we would love to hear.

10 Protocol Keys For Aspiring Leaders Attending Professional Events

Etiquette is what you are doing and saying when people are looking and listening. What you are thinking is your business. ~Virginia Cary Hudson

Navigating business events can be challenging, especially for aspiring young adult leaders. Learn the essential Etiquette Tips to help you make a great impression. Pay keen attention to the do’s and don’ts of professional conduct, from networking to dress code, and ensure you stand out for all the right reasons! Brief chat with Executive Coach, Maxine Barnett provides an engaging snippet. Focusing on the ensuing key points will propel your personal growth.

Dressing For Success

Understand the Dress Code: Research and adhere to the dress code of the organization or event. If unsure, err on the side of being slightly more formal.
Professional Attire: Opt for business suits, blazers, and dress shirts for a formal setting. Business casual might include smart trousers or skirts paired with a blouse or collared shirt.
Grooming: Ensure personal grooming is impeccable. Hair should be neat, nails clean, and makeup (if worn) should be subtle and professional.
Comfortable Footwear: Choose polished, comfortable shoes. Avoid overly casual footwear.
Minimal Accessories: Keep accessories minimal and tasteful. Avoid flashy jewelry or anything that might be distracting.

Conducting Yourself

Punctuality: Always arrive on time. Plan to be there at least 10 minutes early to settle in and prepare.
Body Language: Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. These non-verbal cues convey confidence and attentiveness.
Active Listening: Show that you are engaged by nodding, smiling, and taking notes. Avoid interrupting the speaker.
Clear Communication: Speak clearly and concisely. Be mindful of your tone and ensure it is respectful and professional.
Preparedness: Come to the meeting prepared with any necessary documents, reports, or notes. Familiarize yourself with the agenda and topics of discussion.
Participation: Contribute to discussions thoughtfully. Offer insights and ask relevant questions, but avoid dominating the conversation.
Respect: Show respect for all attendees, regardless of their position. Listen to differing viewpoints and avoid any negative or dismissive behavior.
Technology Etiquette: Silence your phone and other devices. If you must use a laptop or tablet, do so discreetly and only for meeting-related tasks.
Follow-Up: After the meeting, send follow-up emails if necessary, summarizing key points or next steps. This demonstrates attention to detail and commitment to ongoing communication.
Professional Relationships: Use the opportunity to build and nurture professional relationships. Network courteously and express appreciation for the time and input of others.

By following these guidelines, you, as an aspiring leaders can present yourself as professional, competent, and respectful participants in any business meeting.

Are there any points you would like to add? Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers!

Overcome Imposter Syndrome in Leadership

I did it!

Imposter syndrome is a persistent unjustified feeling that one’s success is fraudulent. Imposter syndrome is characterized by doubt in one’s abilities—despite a record of achievement or respect from one’s peers—and a fear of having one’s unworthiness exposed.
Britannica

Congratulations on your promotion! Yet, as you step into your new role, you may find yourself grappling with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. This phenomenon, commonly known as imposter syndrome, can plague even the most accomplished individuals, especially when thrust into unfamiliar territory without proper training or support.

As a new manager, you may be questioning your abilities, second-guessing your decisions, and fearing that at any moment, someone will expose you as a fraud. These feelings are not uncommon, but they can hinder your performance and diminish your confidence.

But don’t be afraid, for there is a way forward. With the right guidance and coaching, you can forge your way through these periods of uncertainty and emerge as a confident and capable leader. Through targeted strategies and personalized support, you can learn to silence your inner critic, cultivate self-assurance, and embrace your newfound role with authenticity and resilience.

During coaching sessions, you explore the root causes of your imposter syndrome, identify limiting beliefs, and develop practical techniques to overcome them. From effective communication and decision-making skills to building strong relationships and managing expectations, you will be equipped with the tools and mindset needed to thrive in your leadership journey.

Remember, you were chosen for this role for a reason. You possess unique strengths, experiences, and perspectives that have prepared you for this moment. Let’s connect. Together, we will unlock your full potential and empower you to lead with confidence, integrity, and authenticity.

It’s time to banish the doubts, embrace your strengths, and step into your leadership with conviction. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together.

Cheers!

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10 Thoughtful And Practical Gift Ideas For Women Leaders This Mother’s Day

The Perfect Gift for Her

Some gifts are big. Others are small. But the ones that come from the heart are the best gifts of all.
Tinku Razoria

Celebrations, Birthdays, Mother’s Day, Selfcare Days…. no matter the occasion, it is always hard to find the ideal gift for the perfect mom, sister, co-worker, best friend to encourage or simply to say Thanks to one who did a kind deed. Here are 10 thoughtful and practical gift ideas for women leaders.

Gifts for Her

Professional Development Books: Gift a selection of books on leadership, personal development, or career advancement. Choose titles that align with the recipient’s interests and goals, such as “Ditch It, Switch It“, “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg or “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown.
Journal or Planner: A stylish journal or planner can help women leaders stay organized, set goals, and track their progress. Look for a high-quality notebook with inspirational quotes or customizable sections for reflection and planning.
Online Course or Workshop: Invest in an online course or workshop that aligns with the recipient’s professional development goals. Whether it’s leadership skills, negotiation tactics, or public speaking, there are plenty of options available to enhance their skills and knowledge.
Executive Coaching Sessions: Provide the gift of personalized coaching sessions with a professional executive coach. This one-on-one support can help women leaders overcome challenges, set strategic goals, and accelerate their career growth.
Membership to Professional Networks: Consider gifting a membership to a professional organization or networking group tailored to women leaders in their industry. This provides opportunities for networking, mentorship, and access to valuable resources and events.
Tech Gadgets or Accessories: Surprise her with a stylish and functional tech gadget or accessory that enhances productivity and efficiency, such as a smartwatch, wireless headphones, or a sleek laptop bag.
Self-Care Package: Put together a self-care package filled with pampering essentials like scented candles, bath salts, herbal teas, and skincare products. Encourage women leaders to prioritize their well-being and recharge their batteries.
Mindfulness or Meditation Tools: Help women leaders manage stress and promote mindfulness with gifts like a meditation app subscription, aromatherapy diffuser, or a set of meditation cushions.
Personalized Leadership Assessment: Invest in a personalized leadership assessment tool or 360-degree feedback survey to help women leaders gain valuable insights into their strengths, areas for improvement, and leadership style.
Inspiring Artwork or Decor: Choose a piece of artwork or decor that inspires and motivates women leaders in their workspace. Whether it’s a motivational quote print, a vibrant painting, or a decorative desk accessory, find something that resonates with their aspirations and values.

These gift ideas for women leaders combine practicality, inspiration, and personalization to support their professional growth and well-being.

Which gift pulls you in? Is there another or a few that you would like to add? Do share. We would love to hear.

Connect now to gift that personalized gift of Executive Coaching or personalized leadership assessment today. It is the gift that keeps on giving.

Cheers!

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Develop Your Brand: A Blueprint For New Authors

Your personal brand is a promise to your clients… a promise of quality, consistency, competency, and reliability.
Tim Ferriss

Many are the desires of the first-time author. Writing is the biggest. Often new authors find it overwhelming to write and see the manuscript to the end. When they do, the next step is often forgotten. Suddenly an author becomes and an entrepreneur – one in which they didn’t anticipate. Developing the book’s brand… yikes!

It’s important to the book’s success and target audience awareness. Essentially, building an author brand is very important because a strong brand helps you stand out, attract readers, and build a loyal fanbase. Here are six (6) steps to get you started:

Build Your New Author Brand

Understand your Brand
- How do you distinguish yourself in the literary world?
Discover your Brand’s Identity
- Reflect: Who are you as an author?
- Who is your ideal Reader?
- USP: What sets you apart?
Create your author persona
- Define your writing style, tone tc
- Design consistent visual identity
- Create author Bio to showcase achievements, background, writing journey
Build your online Presence
- Create author website to showcase books and engage with Readers
- Choose social media platform where target audience hangout
Engage your Audience
- Develop content calendar
- Engage with Readers
- Connect with fellow authors
Launch Book and Grow Brand
- Create buzz and Lunch or Re-Launch your book
- Collaborate to expand
- Keep learning. Keep writing.
- Be flexible and adaptable

There you have it. What has been your experience with the writing process? Do share. We would love to hear.

If you feel overwhelmed, let’s connect.

Top 4 Strategies To Combat Mid-Life Crisis At 40

“Turn your midlife crisis to your own advantage by making it a time for renewal of your body and mind, rather than stand by helplessly and watch them decline.” – Jane Brody

Many fall into a state of wonder and shock as they approach midlife. Alas even before at age 30 changers are experiencing alarm. Questions reign as they look back. Am I where I want to be? What should I do to achieve? And many more.

Here are four (4) strategies that can prove valuable as you approach midlife:

1.Career Evaluation

Evaluate your career satisfaction and alignment with personal values
Consider whether a career change or advancement is necessary for fulfillment

2.Financial Planning

Reassess financial goals and create a long-term financial plan
Consider investments, savings and retirement accounts

3.Personal Relationships

Nurture and strengthen personal relationships
Evaluate the impact of relationships on overall happiness and well-being

Mid-life Learning

Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and personal growth
Explore new hobbies or interests that bring joy and fulfillment

Forget Extroverts! Ambiverts Make Great Entrepreneurs

A person whose personality has a balance of extrovert and introvert features.

In a world of entrepreneurs, networking is key to land those great opportunities. The introvert just wants to stand in a corner and watch others while waiting for the event to end. Extroverts go wild, walking around, meeting and greeting others and frown when the event ends. Then there are the Ambiverts who possess a unique blend of strengths that allow them to navigate a variety of social and professional situations with ease. Wow to the ideal.

Here are the top strengths of the Ambivert:

Adapt between Different Environments

One of their key strengths lies in their ability to adapt to different environments. Ambiverts are comfortable in both introverted and extroverted settings, enabling them to connect with a diverse range of individuals and build strong relationships.

Balanced Communication

Ambiverts exudes a balanced approach to communication. They are adept at both listening attentively and expressing themselves effectively, making them valuable collaborators and team members. This versatility allows ambiverts to excel in roles that require effective communication and interpersonal skills.

High Emotional Intelligence

Ambiverts possess a high degree of emotional intelligence. They are attuned to the needs and feelings of others, which enables them to navigate social dynamics with empathy and understanding. This makes them effective leaders, as they can inspire and motivate others while also fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Weaknesses of an Ambivert

Ambiverts may also face certain challenges. Here are a few potential weaknesses:

Difficulty with Decision-Making: Ambiverts may struggle with decision-making due to their tendency to weigh both introverted and extroverted perspectives. This can lead to indecisiveness or hesitation in taking action.
Balancing Social Needs: Ambiverts may find it challenging to balance their need for social interaction with their need for solitude. They may feel torn between wanting to engage with others and seeking time alone to recharge, which can lead to feelings of inconsistency or restlessness.
Overwhelmed by Social Demands: Ambiverts may become overwhelmed by social demands if they are unable to establish clear boundaries. They may feel pressure to continuously switch between socializing and solitary activities, leading to exhaustion or burnout.
Difficulty Establishing Identity: Ambiverts may struggle with establishing a clear sense of identity, as they may not fully align with either introverted or extroverted traits. This ambiguity can sometimes lead to feelings of self-doubt or confusion about their place in social or professional settings.
Potential for Misunderstanding: Ambiverts’ ability to adapt to different social situations may sometimes be misinterpreted as inconsistency or unpredictability by others. This can lead to misunderstandings or difficulty forming deeper connections with others.
Tendency to Overextend: Due to their ability to engage in both introverted and extroverted activities, ambiverts may sometimes overextend themselves by taking on too many commitments. This can lead to feelings of overwhelm or difficulty maintaining work-life balance.

There you have it. Which trait do you identify with – introvert, extrovert, or ambivert? Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers!

Helpful Strategies For 30-Year-Olds Experiencing Life-Crisis …

By the age of twenty, you know you’re not going to be a rock star. By twenty-five, you know you’re not going to be a dentist or any kind of professional. And by thirty, darkness starts moving in- you wonder if you’re ever going to be fulfilled, let alone wealthy and successful. By thirty-five, you know, basically, what you’re going to be doing for the rest of your life, and you become resigned to your fate…
Doug Couplan

Anthony felt like Doug’s quote when he cried out for help. It seems like doomsday to him. We began chatting with the goal to put some things in place because all is not lost.

For those turning age 30 and feel alone as if they’re fighting to achieve their dreams, this is the stage where you should be self-reflecting, skill evaluating, engaging in healthy habits and networking. Here each point is explained.

Self-Reflection:
- Reflect on your achievements and experiences so far.
- Identify personal and professional goals for the next decade.
Skill Enhancement:
- Assess your skillset and consider acquiring new skills.
- Explore educational opportunities or certifications that align with your career goals.
Healthy Habits:
- Establish and prioritize healthy lifestyle habits.
- Focus on physical and mental well-being to set a foundation for the future.
Networking:
- Build and strengthen professional networks.
- Seek mentorship and guidance from experienced individuals in your field.

Are you age 30 and experiencing any of these signs? You may also have already turned 30 and have lots to share about your journey. Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Unlocking Potential: 5 Signs It’s Time for Supervisor Training

Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.
John F. Kennedy

New supervisors are hesitant yet eager to dive into the job. Without training, mistakes happen. Behaviors indicating the need for supervisory training are shown here. Take a look and based on your observation, identify any that may need to be corrected.

1. Poor Communication

Poor communication skills exhibited when supervisor fails to set clear expectations, give direct feedback, listen actively.

2. Lack Leadership Presence

I’m not gonna lie, leadership ain’t easy. Managers who lack leadership presence are unable to command respect, build relationships, or influence others.

3. Ineffective Delegation

Ineffective at delegating – micromanages employees instead of empowering and trusting

4. Unable to Develop Team

Supervisors are unable to develop team – little coaching or support for the team’s professional growth

5. Poor at Managing Conflict

Poor at managing conflict shown through avoiding difficult conversations. Often, they let issues fester.

6. Fails to Align and Motivate

Failing to align and motivate employees. No vision, inspiration or strategic direction provided.

Recognize any of these behaviors in yourself, co-worker, family member or friend? It’s not a tradition. There is always hope. Training, one on one or group coaching can improve the behaviors those supervising leaders can received.

Need help? Lets connect.

1.Break Down Large Goals

2.Develop a Concrete Action Plan

3.Prioritize and Track Progress

4. Build Accountability

5. Develop Consistent Habits

6. Enhance Motivation

7. Continuous Learning

8. Manage Time Effectively

9. Practice Self-Care

10. Stay Flexible and Resilient

Share this:

Natural Evaluation Period

Emotional Triggers

Professional Burnout

External Evaluation

Strategic Approach

Motivational Approach

Recommended Actions

Share this:

Common Career Change Fears

1.Financial Uncertainty

2.Identity Loss

3. Skill Gap Anxiety

4.Comfort Zone Resistance

Share this:

Head Decisions (Rational / Logical)

Heart Decisions (Emotional / Intuitive)

Recommendation

Points to Note

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Dressing For Success

Conducting Yourself

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Gifts for Her

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Build Your New Author Brand

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1.Career Evaluation

2.Financial Planning

3.Personal Relationships

Mid-life Learning

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Adapt between Different Environments

Balanced Communication

High Emotional Intelligence

Weaknesses of an Ambivert

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1. Poor Communication

2. Lack Leadership Presence

3. Ineffective Delegation

4. Unable to Develop Team

5. Poor at Managing Conflict

6. Fails to Align and Motivate

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