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Our goal for the Light on Leadership newsletter is to provide you with two questions and two thoughts in less than two minutes. We know you are busy leaders, so we hope this content is something you can use and share with others! Enjoy.

Leadership Book Recommendation: A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future - Daniel Pink

Two Questions

What does design have to do with effective leadership?

When we discuss the core elements of leadership, we typically focus on topics such as relationships, motivation, and communication—but not design. Yet as Daniel Pink highlights in his book, A Whole New Mind, design is deeply connected to leadership. It encompasses everything from the physical layout of your facilities to the fonts and graphics your organization uses on its letterhead. These small details make a significant difference.

Consider how Pittsburgh's Montefiore Hospital demonstrated design's importance through a simple change that dramatically improved patient care: Surgery patients with abundant natural light needed less pain medication than those without similar sunlight exposure. This reminds me of Henry Ford's famous quote: "If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses." Looking at patient care from a single perspective might have led to simply prescribing stronger medicine. As leaders, we must view problems from multiple angles and remain open to solutions that might initially seem unconventional.

Remember, if at first you don't succeed, try again—but this time, seek different perspectives.

What’s your favorite movie?

Think of the best movie you've ever watched—what made it memorable? Was it the facts and data you remember, or was it a meaningful story that stirred your emotions and created connections? While facts provide information, stories move us to action. Abraham Lincoln was known as a masterful storyteller. During his political career, the Springfield Journal wrote, "His speaking went to the heart because it came from the heart." As a leader, when you're trying to motivate others and change behaviors, remember the power of telling your story and speaking from the heart.

Facts are facts, but stories inspire.

Two Thoughts

The value of opportunity.

Fewer rules and more productivity.

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