Energy Leadership, 2nd Edition

5All That “Matters” Is Energy

I say, stamping the words with emphasis, drink from here energy and only energy.

—Stephen Spender, poet and essayist

“Welcome, everyone.”

Richard surveyed the vacant looks and defensive body language of his staff. Oh, boy. He thought. Here goes nothing. Just as he committed to do, Richard called a meeting not just with the Fantastic Four, but with the rest of the staff as well to discuss the two points we had agreed needed to be relayed to them. He would first address my presence in their offices, and shortly after express to them his genuine concern for their success and well-being.

“I've called this meeting to address questions many of you may have on your minds: ‘Just what's happening with O'Connell Consulting … and do I need to update my résumé?’ ”

Richard chortled, hoping others would join in. He assumed that making light of everyone's concerns would lift the mood, or at least prompt some nervous laughter.

Nope. As Richard's smile faded, the silence started to feel oppressive.

He reminded himself to breathe.

Inhaling deeply, he remembered that he was committed to being honest and compassionate, not sardonic and depressing. All right, let's start over.

“Listen, I know it's been tense around here because things obviously haven't gone our way lately. You may have heard that we recently lost a big account, Simpson and Simpson, and this comes on the heels of several quarters of downturn. I could stand up here and blame the industry, or even people ...