I've become absolutely convinced that the seminal difference between successful companies and mediocre or unsuccessful ones has little, if anything, to do with what they know or how smart they are; it has everything to do with how healthy they are.

Trust is the confidence among team members that their peers' intentions are good, and that there is no reason to be protective or careful around the group. In essence, teammates are not comfortable being vulnerable with one another.

Politics is when people choose their words and actions based on how they want others to react rather than based on what they really think.

Leaders must display their humanness. Those under their authority must be empowered & have the courage to engage in honest dialogue.

Trust is the foundation of real teamwork (there is nothing touchy-feely about this).

As a leader, you're probably not doing a good job unless your employees can do a good impression of you when you're not around.

Members of trusting teams admit weaknesses and mistakes, take risks in offering feedback and assistance, and focus time and energy on important issues, not politics.