A while ago a friend helpfully pointed out to me that laws and rules can only ever specify the minimum behaviour acceptable in a given… Read More »Organisational culture: specifying minimums, modelling maximums
The Mundanity of Excellence is a 1989 paper by sociologist Daniel Chambliss. In it he draws on his ethnographic research among elite swimmers – and… Read More »The Mundanity of Excellence (2): demystifying talent
The Mundanity of Excellence is a 1989 paper by sociologist Daniel Chambliss. In it he draws on his ethnographic research among elite swimmers – and… Read More »Daniel Chambliss: defining excellence
By famous, I means admired, trusted, given the benefit of the doubt. By famous, I mean seen as irreplaceable or best in the world. Here’s… Read More »Seth Godin and Bo Burlingham on being famous to the family
This is true all the time, but it’s more relevant than ever in months like the one we’re having, and probably for several months ahead:… Read More »Voices
One of the most famous walks in England is along a high ridge in the Lake District called Striding Edge. It runs to the east… Read More »Striding Edge
In a world in which you have direct contact with your audience, and you’re not going through the intermediate of a publisher, studio, record label,… Read More »In a world of billions (Kevin Kelly on 1000 True Fans)
The best reason for washing your hands at regular intervals isn’t protecting yourself. You might only rarely wash your hands and still never get sick.… Read More »Hand-washing, face masks and cultural hygiene
Rule 12. Be Kind – everyone is in a battle We go through life judging others. I’ve often wondered if one of the reasons we… Read More »Bark less, wag more
Outside a close circle of family and friends, the voice you respond in is rarely (just) your own – it’s also the voice of your… Read More »Responsive (3): Good tone