Tracy Coe 
There’s nothing worse than listening to a story that you’ve lost interest in. Or watching a movie that bores you to tears. Or reading a murder mystery novel you’ve already solved in the first chapter. In situations like these, you disconnect, disengage, or put down the book. As a leader, you’ve heard that storytelling is … Learn More
What are we doing, really? We’ve been chasing the work-life balance fairy tale for decades. We’ve sat through countless time management seminars, implemented employee wellness surveys, and created “healthy boundaries” policies that look great on paper. So where are the results? Crickets. Here’s the truth bomb: Balance is a myth. Life isn’t a seesaw. It’s … Learn More
I had no idea how to dress like a human being. After four years at Marine Corps Base Hawaii living in cammies and combat boots, I was headed to LA – supposedly the coolest city on earth. My girlfriends kept saying “shop at Ann Taylor,” but I stood in that store paralyzed. What the hell … Learn More
We didn’t have a lot of money growing up. My parents were educators in a small, rural community. We were secure, but we weren’t fancy: My money mindset was developed during this period – it created a scarcity, security mindset, which is something I have to battle with as a leader and entrepreneur as I … Learn More
“But isn’t that manipulative?” An executive I coach asked me this question recently. I’d just asked her to identify strategic relationships at work—people who could help her execute her vision and people who could derail it. When we discussed the potential derailers, I encouraged her to develop a plan to get them on her side. … Learn More
Yes: I did get caught up in the Western craze. I may have bought some boots, a hat. I did, in fact, just go to a rodeo. It was so much fun. I don’t know about you, but the older I get the more I enjoy new experiences that don’t involve “fancy” and “luxury.” I love simple human … Learn More
During my time in LA, I witnessed something extraordinary at a comedy club that transformed how I coach leaders. The host announced a surprise guest: George Carlin. He was conducting “spring training” – warming up material before his tour. The legend walked on stage carrying a stack of notecards, each containing a single joke. He … Learn More
I learned in the Marines to run toward the sound of chaos. If the Marine to the right or left of us dies, we have to pick up their rifle and keep going. But what of the fallen – the men and women who’ve sacrificed their lives for the greatness of our nation? They are our … Learn More
I spend a considerable amount of time developing my happiness habit “stack,” which includes: While these practices have made a meaningful difference in my life, they don’t always prevent a funk. Admittingly, I’m a pretty positive, happy person … but I’m also human. I get frustrated, I get sad, and I certainty experience worry, concern. And when … Learn More
My friend has a pretty big title. She’s worked hard throughout her career to earn a President’s role in a large energy company. I’ve known her long enough to know that there are parts of the role she loves, and others she tolerates. Regarding the latter, she hates networking. Hates it. She hates getting invited … Learn More
“Come on guys, this sucks … but we’re all in this together.” I’m sure many managers are using this refrain right now. I call it motivation misery. Here’s the catch: misery isn’t motivating. There are plenty of ways to communicate to those around you that “we’re in this together” without having to remind people of the negative … Learn More
I fully believe everyone wakes up wanting to do their best. I realize, though, there are times when it feels like your colleagues and team members are doing whatever it takes just to get by – and their performance level is less than desirable. When your team members aren’t meeting expectations, it’s easy to get mad … Learn More
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