Hidden within his controversial advice are timeless pearls of wisdom about leadership, motivation, and loyalty. Machiavelli was obsessed with stability, how a leader could build a state that lasts. In the modern business world, what is employee retention if not the pursuit of stability? It's about creating an organization so strong, so compelling, that your best people choose to stay, contribute, and grow with you. By reframing his core principles, we can uncover powerful, po

Resignation Season Prep is the career equivalent. Employees who have decided to leave in the New Year begin their job search long before they give notice. They are quietly packing their professional parachutes while still on your payroll. The signs are subtle, but they are there if you know what to look for.

Holiday Attitude Drift is when this stress spills over into the workplace. You’ll see a noticeable shift in an employee's demeanor. They become less patient, more reactive, and emotionally checked out. Their usual positive attitude drifts into irritability. This isn’t intentional insubordination; it's a symptom of being stretched too thin.

Quiet Dodging is the workplace equivalent. It’s when employees subtly sidestep responsibility, accountability, and challenging assignments. It’s not a flat-out "no." It's a "maybe later," a "let me check my calendar," or a complete disappearing act when a tough project is being discussed.

It’s the employee who used to chime in with brilliant ideas during the 2:00 PM brainstorm but now sits silently, nodding just enough to prove they’re awake. It’s the email that gets answered tomorrow instead of today. It’s the "Not my job, not my problem" energy radiating from cubicle four.