This is the heart of Basic Concepts. A growing collection of reflections, insights, and practical tools. All written to help you move well through complex systems. Use what fits. Leave the rest. Start anywhere. Or start with Basic Concept #3: Not everything matters.
Basic Concept #03: Not Everything Matters
Early in your career, everything feels urgent. Every task, every meeting, every time someone doesn’t…
Basic Concept #39: Timing Is Half the Game
I learned this lesson during what should have been my career-defining moment. I’d developed a…
Basic Concept #08: You Can’t Win the Frustration Game
You’ve made your case with logic, evidence, and careful timing. You’ve presented solutions, identified risks,…
Basic Concept #26: Real Leaders Own Outcomes, Not Just Effort
“We gave it our best shot. The team worked incredibly hard. Everyone put in long…
Basic Concept #51: You Can’t Motivate a Team When They Don’t See You
I learned this lesson by watching my first director fail despite having all the right…
Basic Concept #35: Make Sure You Add Value
You’re in back-to-back meetings all day. Your calendar is packed. Your inbox is overflowing. You’re…
Basic Concept #52: Providing Upward Feedback Can Have Its Benefits
I learned this lesson during a critical system redesign when staying quiet would have been…
Basic Concept #13: Clarity Feels Lonely Sometimes.
Don’t Confuse That with Being Wrong You see the problem clearly. The solution is obvious…
Basic Concept #14: Attachment Creates Noise
You’ve been working on the project for months. It was your idea. You’ve invested evenings…