I just got my copy of the latest issue of the Kossoff Executive Advisory. In it, Management Consultant Leslie Kossoff, talking about Starbucks, says "If you’re among the management set – at any level – and you have problems and issues within your department, division or directorate and you’re not addressing them – now – you lose. Worse, so does the organization". As you start this new year, remember that. As a manager, you must have a tendency toward action.

She made a related point in an earlier edition that having a great idea is not enough. You have to get the words out of your mouth. And waiting until after something has happened is not the right time. With her kind permission, I have reprinted her piece on "Talking Out Loud". See if it doesn't get you thinking - and move you to action. Get out of your chair and get going.