Facts are facts and big data is marvelous guiding us in solving problems, finding patterns, making connections… but specific data can be highlighted to skirt an issue or manipulate a specific outcome.

The data below shows that closed toe shoes are a trend for subway users. Check out the best shoe sale ever here.

The data is true, although got pants? ;0)

Hoarding is a very perplexing phenomenon. With it comes the inability to prioritize value among things.

With hoarding there is physical evidence. Other negative habits that include collecting and patterning are often less externally apparent. Whether its repetitive stories we tell ourselves, bad thoughts, fear, or compulsively checking online…

What causes us to be compulsive and self-destructive? Perhaps it’s due in part to a lack of connection to and satisfaction with the here and now.

The most beneficial corporate social responsibility (CSR) goes beyond philanthropy and compliance to include sustainable business models that promote a positive future society. CSR should be considered integral to a company’s brand and strategic plan; providing foresight in alignment with the values and vision.

Foresight includes understanding the long term implications of any actions. Everyone within an organization is responsible for foresight. To give an example, at Microsoft I would speak with thought leaders and policy makers about the concept of average people tracking each other with their smart phones. This was when GPS in phones was on the horizon. Beyond the coolness factor, it was important to recognize that this ability would likely change society. We needed to be thoughtful about our adoption, assuming permission would always be necessary. HA! That ship sailed!

Regardless, we need to be clear about what we’re enabling as we change the world. Sharing foresight about potential change drivers will help prevent future naive actions. (Always an optimist!)

Where to start with CSR? Get clarity on corporate values. From there, make choices in service to what is valued and the roadmap will unfold more easily and with purpose.

CSR will be at the center of our forward work.

Respect and loyalty had me hesitate in applying for a job with a competitor of my old company. Then it dawned on me my hesitance wasn’t really about respect or loyalty but continuing to subscribe to archaic belief systems; in this case the concept of Us versus Them. Attitudes like this are the kindling of wars.

To clarify, when working for a company you must do your best for that company. However, not to the exclusion of burning bridges with the rest of world who are also trying to advance.

We are all vulnerable; it’s just that some of us are better at managing how our vulnerability is manifested.

Esquire wrote a thoughtful article about Philip Seymour Hoffman’s death, his genius with character acting, and its cost.

Hoffman was beyond charismatic. He conflicted us by inducing empathy for the messy and unseemly. He connected to a part of our inner selves too fragile to share with anyone else. He was a master. RIP