Saying no in business can be tough, especially if it’s to an internal stakeholder, a client within your company or a colleague. But finding ways to say no is essential, and learning how to do so successfully is a good strategy to help you navigate your career.

With the use of artificial intelligence on the rise, so-called soft skills are poised to become the most highly valued skill set. Author Daniel Pink was on the mark nearly 20 years ago with his right-brain approach, and now we must evolve other competencies to succeed in the age of AI.

The top two lessons from my time at UChicago came early in my first year. These experiences were valuable and have served me well throughout my career.

Giving a TEDx talk didn’t just offer lessons and insights for audience members. Presenters, including myself, learned plenty from coaches and fellow presenters.

Becoming and being a successful business leader requires a willingness to talk with people who challenge your own thinking and offer another perspective. It’s possible, though not always easy, to engage respectfully with people who see the world differently.

Imposter syndrome: We’ve all read about it and experienced it. It’s that self-doubt about your skills or accomplishments. Maybe you worry about being viewed as a fraud, despite evidence to the contrary.

Many of my clients want to know how to get on a corporate board. There’s no easy answer, and the interest in joining a board is greater than the opportunity, especially for a publicly traded company. There are some key factors and strategies to keep in mind, though.

Holiday stress has an impact, much of it not good. As a former therapist and now a business coach, I know how stress affects lives. During the holidays, let’s find and focus on the joy. Check out my “Curating Your Life” approach to the holidays.

Listen, ask questions, and summarize. That’s the extent of a coach’s reach. Should a business coach offer advice? The International Coaching Federation says its “big on coaches being an empty vessel, merely exploring the client's world, provoking insights through curiosity, not advice-giving.” I have some other thoughts.