Which Behaviors Cause Frustrations at Your Workplace?

Cathie Leimbach • September 9, 2025

Every workplace has its challenges. Some common behaviors create frustration for both leaders and team members. When these patterns show up, they can lower morale and productivity:


  • Showing up late for meetings or shifts
  • Calling in sick often
  • Missing deadlines or forgetting important details
  • Avoiding teamwork or refusing to help others
  • Complaining without offering possible solutions
  • Ignoring feedback or repeating the same mistakes



These behaviors can drain energy from the team. Yet, here’s the good news: people tend to show up differently when they feel valued and appreciated. When employees know their efforts matter, they’re more reliable, more engaged, and more willing to go the extra mile.


Creating a culture of appreciation isn’t complicated—it starts with small, intentional actions. Leaders who show genuine care for their employees as people see better teamwork, stronger morale, and improved results for the organization.


Want to learn how?   Join us for a 30-minute webinar on  Strengthening Your Culture - by Showing Appreciation in the Workplace on Monday, September 22, at 12:30 pm Eastern. You’ll leave with at least one simple action that will increase your employees’ willingness to contribute more at work.

Managing Anxiety During Unstable Times

By Cathie Leimbach • September 2, 2025
The past five years have brought many big changes. From world events to personal challenges, life feels less predictable than ever. This constant uncertainty affects our emotions and mental health both at home and at work. When everything feels unstable, it's normal to feel confused and frustrated. Sometimes we react in ways that don't help. Anxiety happens when we worry about what might go wrong in the future. Our minds race with "what if" thoughts, affecting us both physically and mentally. The good news is we can build emotional resilience to handle these tough times better. Here's how to start: Focus on what you can control: When something specific is making you worry, figure out what steps you can take to reduce negative outcomes. If you're stressed about being late to a meeting, set a reminder on your phone to leave with enough time to arrive 15 minutes early. If you're concerned about finishing a work project on time, schedule dedicated time on your calendar to work on it. If you realize you can't finish it alone, ask your boss if you can have more time or see if a coworker can help out. Take positive action: Instead of worrying about problems, do something small to make your situation better. Clean your workspace, call someone you care about, or take a short walk outside. Build stronger relationships: Reach out to family, friends, or coworkers. Have lunch together, share your worries with someone you trust, or simply check in on others. These connections help us feel less alone during hard times. When we work together and support each other, we can step back from fear and worry about situations we can't control. Remember, we can't control everything that happens, but we can control how we respond.

The Need for True Human Connection

By Cathie Leimbach • August 21, 2025
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in schedules, screens, and endless to-do lists. But what people really crave is something deeper—true human connection. Dr. Paul White, who studies workplace relationships, reminds us that appreciation and connection are not just “nice to have”—they are essential for our well-being. And researcher Brené Brown shows that real connection comes from vulnerability, where people feel safe, seen and valued. Without this kind of connection, many struggle with loneliness, anxiety, or even depression. On the other hand, when we feel truly connected, we’re happier, more engaged, more resilient, and more productive. So how can we build better connections? Start small. Proactively reach out for a live conversation instead of only sending a quick text or email. Take time to connect with peers at work or in your community. Ask others to share something personal about themselves, and share something personal about your life. These simple actions can create moments of trust and belonging. And in a world that can sometimes feel disconnected, these moments are not just valuable—they are vital. Join Us! We invite you to explore this topic further at our upcoming virtual event: Managing Performance in Today’s Workforce. Learn practical strategies to strengthen workplace connection and performance.  View event details here.