Inspired by the book Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well Feedback can be a powerful tool for growth—or a major source of frustration. Whether it comes from a manager, a colleague, a partner, or a friend, feedback often stirs up strong emotions and challenges our self-perception. The good news?
Author Archives: Amy Kay Watson
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Feeling overwhelmed is a universal experience, but finding practical ways to regain clarity and control isn’t always easy. One of my favorite tools for breaking through mental clutter is the “brain dump” exercise—with a powerful twist. This method not only helps you unload your thoughts but also guides you to focus on what truly matters.
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A client told me she knows “perfectionism is bad,” but she likes it because it makes her work better. Do you agree? Let’s explore the difference between perfectionism and excellence and how one small shift in perspective can open the door to greater success and satisfaction. Understanding Perfectionism vs. Embracing Excellence Perfectionism thrives on fear.
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Listen as a podcast Use this checklist to evaluate how well you’re applying the principles of Leadership and Self-Deception by The Arbinger Institute in your daily interactions and leadership style. Reflect on your behaviors and attitudes to uncover patterns of self-deception and take steps to operate “out of the box.” 1. Recognizing Self-Deception 2. Seeing
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Leading through adaptive challenges can be one of the toughest tests for a leader. Inspired by Leadership on the Line, With a New Preface: Staying Alive Through the Dangers of Change by Ronald Heifetz and Marty Linsky, this concise checklist distills the book’s core principles into actionable steps to help you lead with clarity, courage, and resilience. Whether you’re navigating change, addressing conflict, or sustaining your energy, these guidelines will keep you grounded and effective.
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David Rock, a thought leader in the field of neuroscience and leadership, introduced the SCARF model in his seminal book Your Brain at Work. This book explores how understanding the brain’s natural tendencies can help individuals and teams improve performance, collaboration, and decision-making. The SCARF model, one of the central concepts in the book, offers
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Listen as a podcast Receiving feedback that you need to “speak up” more in meetings can be both challenging and empowering. It highlights an opportunity to enhance your presence, contribute more effectively, and influence outcomes within your team. One practical framework to guide your engagement is David Kantor’s Four Player Model of team roles. By
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Networking can seem like a daunting task, especially if you are an introvert or prefer a structured plan over “mixing.” When you break it down into manageable steps, networking becomes much more approachable. Whether you want to advance your career, grow your business, or simply improve your effectiveness at getting things done, a structured networking
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Listen as a podcast Have you ever felt drained trying to juggle work, family, and personal time? In today’s fast-paced world, sustaining high energy levels can be a challenge. To bridge the gap between knowing and doing, I’ve created a practical, three-part checklist inspired by The Power of Full Engagement by Jim Loehr and Tony
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Listen as a podcast Inspired by the book Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, and Sheila Heen. We’ve all been in conversations that feel overwhelming, emotional, or downright impossible to navigate. Whether it’s addressing a misunderstanding, offering critical feedback, or discussing sensitive personal matters, these moments can feel
