Articles (and Insights)

Insights on leading with courage, showing up with presence, and cultivating workplace cultures where people thrive. Get our best insights for leaders, HR/OD/L&D professionals, and culture builders.

What If We Stopped Taking Things So Personally?
Cultivating Presence, Leadership, Employees Amber Barnes Cultivating Presence, Leadership, Employees Amber Barnes

What If We Stopped Taking Things So Personally?

What if the moments that sting—those comments that hit deep—were actually invitations? At StartHuman, we believe real leadership means staying present with discomfort and taking responsibility for our own nervous system instead of offloading pain onto others.

In this post, Amber shares a powerful story of receiving tough feedback, choosing vulnerability over defensiveness, and discovering the power of relational repair. It’s a reminder that our reactions aren’t personal—they’re protective. And when we practice emotional intelligence as a daily discipline—not just a buzzword—we build cultures where trust, truth, and connection can thrive.

Read More
What Coaching Is and What It Isn’t

What Coaching Is and What It Isn’t

Coaching can be transformative—but only when it’s done with skill, training, and integrity. In a field where anyone can call themselves a coach, it's important to know what to look for. This article breaks down what coaching really is (and isn’t), how it differs from consulting, therapy, mentoring, and training, and what questions to ask before choosing a coach.

Read More
Navigating the Feedback Dilemma: Giving Candid Feedback
Leadership, Leadership Development Amber Barnes Leadership, Leadership Development Amber Barnes

Navigating the Feedback Dilemma: Giving Candid Feedback

Discover the transformative power of specific feedback in the world of business leadership. Explore how candid communication with your managers can pave the way for clearer guidance, stronger collaboration, and a more fulfilling leadership experience. Join us as we navigate the feedback dilemma and humanize the art of leadership.

Read More
Five Ways to Stop Bullying in the Workplace (and Beyond)

Five Ways to Stop Bullying in the Workplace (and Beyond)

Maybe someone has been described as being “too direct” or “too honest.” Perhaps you’ve noticed someone raising their voice, slamming things, or even name calling. While this type of behavior can be extremely harmful and is prone to escalation, there are ways to stop it in its tracks and turn it into something more productive. Here are five tips on dealing with bullying in the workplace.

Read More