Author Archives: Amy Kay Watson

An Essential Checklist for Compassion in the Workplace

Compassion is more than just a feeling—it’s an active force that shapes workplace culture, builds trust, and strengthens organizations. Inspired by Awakening Compassion at Work by Monica C. Worline and Jane E. Dutton, this checklist provides actionable steps for fostering a compassionate work environment. Use it to assess and enhance how you respond to suffering,

An Essential Checklist for Non-Reactive Leadership Presence

Effective leadership requires emotional strength, self-differentiation, and a calm, non-anxious presence. Friedman argues that leaders often fail because they succumb to the anxiety, emotional pressures, and reactive behaviors of those around them. The book advocates for leaders to stay grounded in their principles, resist the contagion of anxiety, and embrace the courage to confront challenges directly. By maintaining emotional resilience and clarity, leaders can inspire confidence, drive meaningful change, and avoid the pitfalls of over-functioning or reactive decision-making.

Empathetic Accountability Done Right Prevents Leader Burnout

Graphic representation of a clear, well-maintained pathway with guiding signs, representing structure and support.

Listen as a podcast: Burnout is a word we hear often in leadership circles. It lingers in the background, often spoken in hushed tones or with a resigned sigh. Leaders walk a tightrope, juggling competing demands as they strive to support their teams and meet performance targets while retaining their humanity. With unclear expectations from

An Essential Checklist for Making Your Own Transitions

Change is inevitable, but successfully navigating the emotional and psychological process of transition is what leads to true transformation. Inspired by Transitions: Making Sense of Life’s Changes by William Bridges, this checklist is designed to guide you through the three phases of transition: Ending, The Neutral Zone, and New Beginning. Use it to support yourself

Love and Power: An Essential Checklist

How can leaders balance empathy and accountability to drive meaningful change? Inspired by Power and Love by Adam Kahane, this checklist provides actionable steps to integrate love (connection) and power (agency) in your leadership approach. Use it to navigate complex challenges, foster trust, and build partnerships that lead to sustainable progress. Checklist 1: Embrace the

An Essential Checklist for Selling What You Have to Sell

In today’s world, we are all in sales. Whether you’re pitching a product, an idea, or yourself, mastering the art of persuasion is essential. Inspired by To Sell Is Human by Daniel Pink, this checklist breaks down key concepts to help you sell with authenticity, empathy, and effectiveness. Use it to refine your approach, build

A Fierce Essential Checklist for Communication and Leadership

Are you ready to have the conversations that make a big difference? Inspired by Fierce Conversations and Fierce Leadership by Susan Scott, this checklist provides actionable steps to help you engage in meaningful, transformative dialogue. Use it to build stronger relationships, address challenges head-on, and foster accountability in both your personal and professional life. Checklist

An Essential Checklist for Working With Feelings and Needs

Are you seeking a way to express yourself authentically while also, somehow, building deeper connections AND resolving conflicts peacefully? Believe it or not, it’s possible! Nonviolent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg is a must-read. The book offers a transformative approach to expressing your needs and listening with empathy, helping you move beyond blame and judgment toward

An Essential Checklist for Coaching as a Manager

Are you ready to transform your conversations and become a more effective leader or coach? Inspired by The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier, this checklist distills the book’s key coaching questions and habits into actionable steps. Use it to help you remember the core lessons after you’ve read the book so you can build