Weekly Posts and Insights

The Power of Silence (and Writing)
Leadership, Culture, People Matthew Harrington Leadership, Culture, People Matthew Harrington

The Power of Silence (and Writing)

In a world of nonstop noise, true leadership sometimes requires silence. This post explores how journaling and intentional reflection—anchored in the practices of Resonant Leadership—can deepen self-awareness, build resilience, and support authentic leadership growth. Drawing from real retreat experiences and the research of James Pennebaker and Brené Brown, it offers practical tips for starting a journaling habit that heals and empowers.

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Influence Starts Within: Influence is Self-Confidence in Action
People, Leadership Matthew Harrington People, Leadership Matthew Harrington

Influence Starts Within: Influence is Self-Confidence in Action

Influence in leadership begins with a grounded sense of self-confidence—not arrogance, but clarity about one’s values, voice, and impact. When leaders doubt their influence, it often stems from internal narratives rather than external evidence. By exploring personal strengths, seeking honest feedback, and aligning with purpose, leaders can reclaim their presence and lead with authentic influence.

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We Hire on Resumes, We Retain Through Relationships: Becoming an "Employer of Choice" on a Limited Budget
Leadership, People Matthew Harrington Leadership, People Matthew Harrington

We Hire on Resumes, We Retain Through Relationships: Becoming an "Employer of Choice" on a Limited Budget

In this post, I reflect on my panel presentation where I shared practical, low-cost strategies for becoming an employer of choice through trust, leadership flexibility, and purposeful engagement. I emphasized that retention is driven by relationships—not resumes—and introduces frameworks like CAMP motivation, Greenthumb Leadership, and belief-behavior conversations.

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Resilient Warrior Leader: The Passion to Persevere
Leadership Matthew Harrington Leadership Matthew Harrington

Resilient Warrior Leader: The Passion to Persevere

This post explores the deep connection between leadership, passion, and perseverance, emphasizing that true passion often involves sacrifice and sustained effort. It highlights the importance of deliberate practice and renewal in avoiding burnout and achieving a state of flow. Ultimately, resilient leaders are those who pursue purpose with grit, balancing passion with intentional self-care and growth.

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Mastering the Mind: Leadership Presence Through Mindfulness and the Johari Window
Matthew Harrington Matthew Harrington

Mastering the Mind: Leadership Presence Through Mindfulness and the Johari Window

In the latest installment of the Resilient Warrior Leader series, I dive into the mental terrain of leadership—where mindfulness meets the powerful framework of the Johari Window. Too often, we push through stress and call it strength. But neuroscience tells us otherwise: chronic stress shrinks our capacity to lead with clarity, empathy, and presence.

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Is Leadership Really Dead? (And Why I Still Write About It)
Leadership Matthew Harrington Leadership Matthew Harrington

Is Leadership Really Dead? (And Why I Still Write About It)

In a time when fear-based, authoritarian leadership styles are resurging globally, this post reflects on the enduring value of authentic, hope-driven leadership rooted in empathy, humility, and service. Despite the current climate, there is a call on leaders and educators to continue nurturing a new generation that leads with compassion, courage, and integrity.

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Breaking the Superhuman Cycle: Why Great Leaders Need Rest Too
Leadership, People Matthew Harrington Leadership, People Matthew Harrington

Breaking the Superhuman Cycle: Why Great Leaders Need Rest Too

Many leaders fall into the trap of the Superhuman Syndrome, pushing themselves to exhaustion while ignoring the long-term costs to their well-being and effectiveness. This post explores how dissonant leadership and the constant chase for urgency can lead to burnout, while resonant leadership—rooted in emotional intelligence and renewal—fosters sustainable success. By embracing the Cycle of Sacrifice and Renewal, leaders can model resilience, elevate team performance, and lead with clarity and composure.

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Leadership, Babies and Mothers
Matthew Harrington Matthew Harrington

Leadership, Babies and Mothers

As we wrap up this fun and light-hearted series, I'm experiencing a range of emotions—not only about leadership and recipes (though I love completing projects!), but also about the upcoming birth of my baby girl (due anytime now) and my late mother’s birthday on March 2.

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The Leadership Growth Lattice for Your Learning and Development Efforts
Matthew Harrington Matthew Harrington

The Leadership Growth Lattice for Your Learning and Development Efforts

According to LinkedIn’s 2024 Workplace Learning Report, employees are more likely to stay at a company that invests in their learning and development—a key strategy as 90% of organizations express concern about retention. The Leadership Growth Lattice offers a simple yet holistic approach, blending job training, mentorship, and leadership development to create multiple pathways for professional growth.

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