What if leadership wasn’t just about learning frameworks but about becoming them? What if, instead of simply understanding resilience, adaptability, and connection, you lived them so deeply they shaped every decision, every interaction, every challenge you faced? That’s the essence of The Human Impact Kata—a transformative practice designed to go beyond theory and embed leadership into who you are. Learn More About the H.I. Kata

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Have you ever had a leader who said all the right things—but you didn’t feel them? They meant well, but deep down, you wondered… Do you truly see me? Do you understand what fills my cup?

That gap—between words and presence—is what separates transactional leadership from authentic, felt leadership.

In Zen Buddhism, the Ensō (円相) is a hand-drawn circle—imperfect, fluid, and never complete. It symbolizes growth, presence, and continuous learning.

The deeper I explored Japanese philosophy, the more I saw a pattern: words tied to leadership, resilience, and transformation all shared one kanji—心 (Kokoro, heart-mind).

My Jiichan (grandfather) embodied this. While I grew up in Canada, he remained deeply rooted in Japan, shaping me in ways I only later understood.

I'm curious—what truly fuels our drive to stay engaged and thrive at work? Lately, I've been pondering what kinds of incentives go beyond financial rewards to spark a deeper connection to our roles. From psychological safety to purpose-driven work, it’s clear that motivation isn't one-size-fits-all. In this piece, I unpack the science and psychology behind effective incentives and share insights on how leaders can foster environments where employees feel valued and empowered. Let's dive into what really keeps us motivated.