If you participate on a board of directors, you know that you have multiple obligations to the organization and to the community. You work hard to lend your skills and expertise in civic leadership. Perhaps you are looking to motivate your group for the New Year, which is right around the corner.

When you actually have a moderate amount of task conflict, then decision making and performance outcomes may improve in your teams and in your organization. Unhealthy levels of conflict can lead to a variety of dysfunctions, which no one wants. As with many things in life, it’s about achieving a healthy balance.

A solid strategic plan is a great tool that will help for-profit and nonprofit leaders optimize their performance and results, and ultimately the bottom line. Resources are always limited. All leaders need to be especially careful when making financial decisions. When done well this ensures maximum and most efficient impact for each dollar spent.

Are you an executive director of a non-profit, or a small business owner? Perhaps you are considering joining a local board for civic leadership. If so, you will want to have a firm grasp of roles and responsibilities for a Board of Directors.