One of the most difficult challenges of any leader is to create a work environment where people get a long and feel safe from negative confrontation, backstabbing and gossip. Several years ago I was brushing my teeth when one of my kids informed me that my two year old son had used the very toothbrush that I was using!

It is always refreshing for me personally to run across a leader like Steven from time to time. I have had a lot of respect and in some cases more loyalty for leaders who could be genuinely emotional on occasion. I am talking about open leaders who could share an inspiring personal story and could shed tears. Or leaders who could cry with those they lead because they care.

As I have grown older, and I believe a bit wiser, it is hard for me to be around yammering negative people. They suck my energy and frankly waste my time. They complain about everything from the organization, their manager, other employees, customers, the weather, free lunches and on and on. Blah blah blah… leave me alone – okay? I am on a soap box of sorts, but this is something all leaders should realize sooner than later if they haven’t already – whiners and complainers are not doers, they are idle poisoners.

I realize that this post may be my most controversial post ever due to my sharpness. But I am going to say and post it any way. Most managers that lack the guts to provide honest feedback might very well be doing it because they are selfish, not because they care. I have heard many managers I have consulted with over the year say something like…