Welcome to the Mentoring Minute™ series. Each week, I’ll answer a reader question and provide at least one great idea on succeeding at work, winning at life, and enjoying it.

You may be groaning at the idea of considering how to improve your communications. “I’ve got a business or team to manage, this takes too much time!” Taking time to focus on your leadership skills is a luxury you think you can’t afford.

I too have many deadlines, launches, business development calls, team reviews, and board meetings – but with over 25 years of starting, growing, managing, and governing businesses, I’ve learned that I can’t afford NOT to invest in my leadership and communication skills.

It’s impossible to successfully lead – people, teams, or projects – without knowing how to communicate effectively. On this week’s Mentoring Minute™ and blog post, I share five simple ideas designed for busy leaders (like you!) to grow your communication skills every day – Enjoy!