And why they’re a dose of healthy energy for your team. — Introduction If I had to pick only one interview question to ask candidates for the rest of my life, it would be this (three-in-one!): What is the hardest thing you ever willfully endured, why did you do it, and what did you learn? To some people, signing up for a physical…

Stand your ground. Catalyze frustration into a powerful move for your team. Forgive, but do not forget. The world needs you. — Data Talks According to a 2022 study by MetLife, women in STEM are twice as likely to leave their jobs as women outside the industry, citing stress and burnout as the primary factors. …

Prepare your materials and yourself for the exciting world of pitching agents, where you’ll boost your adrenaline and get real-time feedback. — Introduction Set aside your fears of talking to agents about your work and you may find yourself deep in conversation with a professional who truly cares about you, your creativity, and your success. Disclaimer: I am still searching for my advocate and partner in the publishing industry, but I had a…

Thirty traits of product managers at different stages of product maturity — In the spirit of Earth Day weekend 2023, let’s talk about the relationship between product management and the biological growth of plant systems. Like Product Gardening, this article is firmly anchored in analogies — this time fully dedicated to tree growth. Abstract thinking required.

What we can learn about your product’s maturation, by observing the evolution of a garden through the seasons. — “Gardens are not made by singing ‘Oh, how beautiful,’ and sitting in the shade.” — Rudyard Kipling Drawing a comparison between product development and the seasonal evolution of a garden may seem far-fetched and require more abstract thinking than typical business articles, but bear with me. …

Balance the practicalities of product development with your real goals: inspiring customers and empowering sales. — First, focus on a vision Product leaders are often faced with conflicting priorities. Which product deserves your attention? Which features should we build in that product, and in what order? How should those features function? Who, out of all the people in this world, are the product’s potential customers? How should we price it? …

Seizing the day takes discipline, guts, and gratitude. But you’re a genie with powers untapped. So tap them. — Pause and Reflect Listen carefully. In the silence. You are living through echoes of billions of wishes and dreams of our ancestors. The wishes that life could be more accommodating, liberating, and inspiring. The dreams of a better world for their children, which have come to fruition through evolution, invention and disruption. Manifestation…

Skate toward your daily finish line with tactical precision by organizing and prioritizing your tasks — Like a Record, Baby Sometimes it feels like we’re professional stuntmen and women — spending our days juggling armfuls of balls while spinning in circles on an ice rink — centrifugal forces tugging on us. One lap down. Check. A few balls released from the juggle stack. Check. Check. …

The most memorable productivity involves laughter, a tiny bit of insanity, and being proud of your outcomes. — Task List Trauma The problem with being ruthlessly productive is you sometimes forget to have fun in the process. Breathe. If you die tonight, the world will keep going. So, what legacy do you want to leave? Do you want to be remembered as the efficient taskmaster who got everything done, the details…