It is crucial to recognize, reward, and celebrate accomplishments.

It is easier to talk about money -- and much easier to talk about sex -- than it is to talk about power. People who have it deny it; people who want it do not want to appear to hunger for it; and people who engage in its machinations do so secretly.

Power stems from 'rainmaking,' as law firms put it: the ability to bring resources into the company.

"Leadership" is a big topic today. We know that the world - nations and communities in addition to companies - needs more and better leaders. So I wanted to explore how leaders make a difference, how they can shift a negative cycle, turn around a losing organization, propel a team to victory when conditions aren't perfect. I saw that what leaders do is build confidence in advance of victory. Then the confidence they produce makes the hope of success turn into the reality of success, because people behave differently when they are surrounded by a culture of confidence.

Power is America's last dirty word. It is easier to talk about money - and much easier to talk about sex - than it is to talk about power.

Confidence makes you willing to try harder and attracts the kind of support from others that makes "winning" possible.

Friendly people are caring people, eager to provide encouragement and support when needed most.