In the 19th Century, anthropologists believed that Polynesia was settled by people who migrated there from Southeast Asia. This became the conventional view until a young Thor Hyerdahl challenged the experts. His contention, based on evidence gathered while living with the natives, was that Polynesia was settled by people from the east, specifically South America. In 1947, despite much criticism, he built the raft KonTiki and sailed 4300 miles across the vast Pacific Ocean from Peru to Polynesia, proving beyond a doubt that it was possible. In 1970, he dispelled another long held view that Columbus discovered America. He believed that the ancients had made the voyage centuries before Columbus and proved it by building and sailing Ra II across the Atlantic Ocean from Morocco to Barbados, a journey of 3270 miles.

Recently I was in a meeting where, after a long discussion, a decision was finally made to take action. The person who was most vocal in arguing against the action was asked whether or not he supported the decision. Even though it was apparent to the team that he was not on board, he said “I’m fine!” The owner called him out and asked him “Yes or no, do you support the decision?” The dissenter hesitated. The owner went on, “Whenever I hear someone say they’re fine what they mean to say is that they’re: Frustrated, Irritated, Not bought in, and Exasperated. So, is that what you meant by ‘Fine’?”

Years and years ago, I became attracted to the notion of “well-being” and embarked on a lifelong study of the topic. Since then it is difficult for me to not dig into any article or book that passes my eyes on the subject or related topics like “happiness”.

Bald tires & blowouts: how you can unwittingly sabotage the traction you’ve worked so hard to achieve

Lessons we learn by listening to how people use words. Words are the foundation of our corporate culture.