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 #16: Don’t Forecast the Room. Set Your Scenarios.
You’re walking into the meeting thinking: “Sarah’s going to push back on the budget. Tom…
Basic Concept #28: Influence Upstream, Align Downstream
You see the problem clearly. The solution is obvious. But when you try to implement…
Basic Concept #19: Don’t Fight the Wall. Map It.
I spent three months preparing the most comprehensive business case of my career. Customer feedback…
Basic Concept #33: Define Your Goals. What Do You Want From It?
You’re frustrated with your job. The project isn’t going well. The relationship with your manager…
Basic Concept #22: Information Is Currency. Spend It Wisely.
You know something others don’t. Maybe you heard about the reorganization before it was announced….
Basic Concept #36: Don’t Overshare, Keep Something Up Your Sleeve
“I believe in radical transparency. I share everything with my team. No secrets, no hidden…
Basic Concept #23: If It Feels Like You’re Being Played, You Probably Are
Something feels off. The request came with unusual urgency. The flattery feels excessive. The timeline…
Basic Concept #24: Pre-positioning Beats Persuasion
You’ve prepared the perfect presentation. Your logic is flawless. Your data is compelling. Your arguments…
Basic Concept #02: Your Name Is Not on the Building
I learned this lesson during a major organizational transformation when I invested everything (emotionally and…