What to Ask the Person in the Mirror

Critical questions for becoming a more effective leader and reaching your potential.

by Robert Steven Kaplan

Authoring Your Future

There is no doubt that each of us is a product of our past. Our life stories and narratives shape our current behaviors. The events and experiences in our life deeply influence who we are and how we view the world. Read More

The Story(s) of Our Life

We all have a life story. In fact, we have many life stories. We have the story we tell in a job interview; the story we tell in our resume; the story our parents tell about us; the story we tell our friends. All these stories may be framed slightly differently and they probably change over time/life experience. Read More

The Corner Diner in a Storm

I frequently talk about the need to articulate a "vision." You need to have a clear vision (with 3 to 5 key priorities) to build a great business or non-profit. The vision is an aspiration - the impact you want to make on your customers and the world. It is the guide around which you align your organization. It informs all key decisions. Read More

The Essence of Leadership

We all go through periods when we feel down, discouraged, frustrated and unsure of ourselves. Read More

Must It Be Lonely at the Top?

We've all heard the expression, "It's lonely at the top." Sometimes it's said to comment on the challenges of the US President or describe the struggles of a business leader. It is usually said when observing a leader who is agonizing over a tough decision in a difficult situation. Read More

Robert Steven Kaplan is a professor of management practice at Harvard Business School, former vice chairman of The Goldman Sachs Group and co-chairman of Draper, Richards and Kaplan, a global venture philanthropy firm.

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