Most people hate confrontation – and that includes business owners and entrepreneurs. When our people don't cooperate, a proverbial battlefield mentality often sets in producing a win-lose or lose-win ultimatum. When not dealt with properly, poor disciplinary habits (or no habits at all) produce much unnecessary stress, frustration, suspicion, and at the end of the day, a business culture marred with gossip and politics. Even though few of us like confrontation, when viewed as opportunities rather than problems, disciplining employees effectively, with discretion, can be some of the most productive actions a leader can ever take.

The hard part