Financial situation got you down? Get a listening ear with a confidential email mentor Lately the economy is big news. As someone who discusses personal finance I'd have to say that the discussion is good. But, if you add up all the news reports (print, radio, television, internet) you wonder whether Jane and Joe Consumer are really learning anything....

Compliance is now a no-option legislated requirement. The risks associated with non-compliance are so enormous, the penalties so severe, that only an alien could imagine ignoring these rules.  With the potential expansion of Sarbanes-Oxley and ever more stringent AML protocols, everyone in the industry has scrutiny on the brain. The intention...

When it comes to understanding the deepest desires and issues in my life, I often find that a look at ancient literature provides insights not available in the modern frenetic whirlwind of living.  Making critical decisions that are propelled by pace alone often leads to enormous regrets, personal agony and relationship destruction.  I would much...

Why should I act ethically? After all, if I can get away with a few short cuts here and there, my unethical behavior will serve me well.  I will gain advantage over others.  I may speed up the accumulation of power or wealth.  So, why not?  Apparently many others are stepping across the line.  Why not me?  What does it matter as long as I...

One day I resigned as President of the company.  What a difficult decision! I didn't resign because I was making a career ladder move.  I didn't leave over decisions about executive fall-out or even the loss of income.  My biggest fears were not about what was ahead but rather what I was leaving behind.  My biggest fears were about the group...

Over the years of working for Rich DeVos in the Magic organization, I have seen him make many bold, risky, multimillion-dollar decision. From watching him and talking to him in those moments of decision, I have identified eight principles Rich uses whenever he has a difficult decision to make. These eight principles have made him one of the most...

Businesses around the world have drawn up Purpose Statements, Goals and Priorities to help keep the their companies on target. Below is a sample of a Charter of Values that is used by REM Enterprises Inc. They have tried something new so that their employees and customers know what they stand for. Have you ever considered drawing up a...