In the span of just two and a half months, three individuals in my circle passed away—each of them unexpectedly and far too young. One was a dear friend’s young adult son, another was a close colleague who succumbed to illness more swiftly than anyone anticipated, and most recently, a father who suffered a fatal heart attack.

Experiencing these losses has left me reflective, somber, and deeply aware of my own mortality. In the midst of the grief and compassion I feel for their families, I’ve found myself pondering urgent questions about how I’m living my own life:

• Am I truly living fully, or am I sometimes just coasting?
• Where do I hold back—staying safe in my comfort zone—when I could be braver, bolder, and more present?
• In the midst of my own goals and dreams, am I also showing up for the people around me—heart and mind aligned?

These moments of reflection bring me back to two Latin phrases: memento mori—remember you must die—and memento vivere—remember you must live. Togeth...

Introduction

In leadership, as in life, we often face a critical dilemma: should we stand firmly by our principles, or should we adapt to the reality of the situation?

A recent example of this tension played out on the global stage between NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Rutte publicly advised Zelensky to rebuild his relationship with the U.S., emphasizing that America’s support is essential for Ukraine’s survival. For some, this seemed like a strategic and necessary move; for others, it felt like a compromise of values.

But this isn’t just a political issue—it’s a human issue. Every one of us faces moments where our values clash with practicality. How do we navigate this balance in our careers, relationships, and daily lives? And more importantly, how can we do it in a way that doesn’t compromise our moral compass?

The Dilemma: Principles vs. Pragmatism

Zelensky, as a leader, represents moral conviction. He is fighting for his country...

Questions are among the most potent tools we have to shape our thoughts, expand our perspectives, and influence our actions. Just as your perspective defines how you see the world and determines how you act in it, the questions you ask shape the direction and depth of your thinking. A question can be the spark that illuminates a path forward or the key to unlocking a deeper understanding of yourself and others. Yet, not all questions are created equal. Understanding the nuances of questions—their intent, quality, and purpose—is crucial to fully harnessing their transformative power.

The Dual Nature of Questions: Small and Big

Not every question carries the same weight or impact. Some questions are small, addressing immediate or surface-level concerns, such as “What should I eat for dinner tonight?” These questions can still hold significance when tied to a larger purpose. For example, “What should I eat?” gains depth when asked in the context of a long-term goal like improving health...