Author: Phil Adderley

  • Reaction vs Response – The Moments That Define Your Leadership.

    Reaction vs Response – The Moments That Define Your Leadership.

    In manufacturing and operations, things don’t always go your way. • You’ve built the case. • You’ve influenced the stakeholders. • You’ve done the groundwork. But the decision goes another way. It might look like: • Not getting the promotion you were working towards • Investment going to another site or project • A process…

  • The Mental Battles… But Who Are You Actually Fighting?

    The Mental Battles… But Who Are You Actually Fighting?

    I was once a mid-career professional (I’ll claim I still am). If you’re in your late 30s / early 40s, you might be starting to notice this pattern. On paper, it all looks fine.You’ve been committed to being successful, and that’s mattered to you. But internally… how are you feeling? There’s often a constant noise…

  • Not All Advice Is Helpful

    Not All Advice Is Helpful

    Early on, in one of my roles, I was given a piece of advice from a boss: “Don’t go native.” The message was clear, don’t get too close to the shop floor. Keep your distance. Maintain authority. Not sure I agreed with this advice, and here’s the problem I had with it…Leadership without connection doesn’t…

  • The Myth Which Is Called Momentum

    The Myth Which Is Called Momentum

    Momentum is a myth in manufacturing.And believing in it is costing you performance. If your production results depend on “momentum”…you don’t have a system. I once heard a football manager say:“Momentum is a myth.” But he was right. Commentators say:“They’ve got all the momentum.” What they’re actually seeing is:– Rehearsed patterns– Clear roles– Relentless training–…

  • You’re Maxed-Out At 40%…
Based On Your Mindset.

    You’re Maxed-Out At 40%… Based On Your Mindset.

    I recently read Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins. One idea really stood out. He talks about the “40% Rule”. The idea that most people stop exerting effort when they’ve only reached around 40% of their true physical or mental capability. So what is this voice telling you to stop?It is your survival-oriented regulator. Its…

  • How To Find A New Level To Operate At.

    How To Find A New Level To Operate At.

    How do you condition yourself so you’re not found wanting when the pressure increases? In my early 20s, I ran the London Marathon without really knowing how to train properly. I finished in just over 4 hours. Two weeks later, I ran a half marathon in 1 hour 34 minutes, still not really understanding recovery…