Most people don't lead their own lives - they accept their lives

Motivation and inspiration energize people, not by pushing them in the right direction as control mechanisms do but by satisfying basic human needs for achievement, a sense of belonging, recognition, self-esteem, a feeling of control over one's life, and the ability to live up to one's ideals. Such feelings touch us deeply and elicit a powerful response.

Most US corporations today are over-managed and under-led. They need to develop their capacity to exercise leadership.

Outsiders have the intuitive ability to continually view problems in fresh ways and to identify ineffective practices and traditions.

A higher rate of urgency does not imply ever-present panic, anxiety, or fear. It means a state in which complacency is virtually absent.

Many years ago, I think I got my first insight on how an incredibly diverse team can work together and do astonishing things, and not just misunderstand each other and fight.

Valued achievements connect to people at a deeper level—and a deeper level can change behavior that is generally very difficult to change.