Welcome to my new blog – “Reflections of a Lifelong Learner.” For those who don’t know me, I am Mike Howard, former Chief Security Officer (CSO) at Microsoft for 16 years, with previous careers at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for 22 years and in my youth, a few years with the Oakland, California Police Department. My wife and I are recently retired and have moved to the Las Vegas area. I have always had a burning desire to write (that Pulitzer Prize winning novel is somewhere in my brain – or at least I can dream about that!) I have followed many bloggers over the years, especially in the area of leadership which is a passion for me. For instance, I follow a wonderful leadership blog called “The Leadership Freak” which is written by a good friend of mine, Dan Rockwell. I am now sticking my toes into the world of blogging myself. The premise is that no matter how successful you have been and are as a leader, you are never there. You are constantly learning, or you should be. Once you start to believe your own press and BS, that is the beginning of the end of you as an effective leader. I think I have had a very remarkable journey as a leader, both at Microsoft and at the CIA. But Lord knows, I have made my share of mistakes (more to come on that in future blogs!) I have committed myself to lifelong learning so that I can continue to hone my leadership skills. I want to learn from all of you as well who are all leaders in your own right. Let’s do this together. I am honored to be able to share whatever insights and experiences I have had in the leadership arena, with all of you. Let’s do this………!!

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24 thoughts on “Welcome to my new blog – “Reflections of a Lifelong Learner.” For those who don’t know me, I am Mike Howard, former Chief Security Officer (CSO) at Microsoft for 16 years, with previous careers at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for 22 years and in my youth, a few years with the Oakland, California Police Department. My wife and I are recently retired and have moved to the Las Vegas area. I have always had a burning desire to write (that Pulitzer Prize winning novel is somewhere in my brain – or at least I can dream about that!) I have followed many bloggers over the years, especially in the area of leadership which is a passion for me. For instance, I follow a wonderful leadership blog called “The Leadership Freak” which is written by a good friend of mine, Dan Rockwell. I am now sticking my toes into the world of blogging myself. The premise is that no matter how successful you have been and are as a leader, you are never there. You are constantly learning, or you should be. Once you start to believe your own press and BS, that is the beginning of the end of you as an effective leader. I think I have had a very remarkable journey as a leader, both at Microsoft and at the CIA. But Lord knows, I have made my share of mistakes (more to come on that in future blogs!) I have committed myself to lifelong learning so that I can continue to hone my leadership skills. I want to learn from all of you as well who are all leaders in your own right. Let’s do this together. I am honored to be able to share whatever insights and experiences I have had in the leadership arena, with all of you. Let’s do this………!!”

  1. I’m looking forward to reading your blog and am happy to be part of your audience. Mostly though, I’m just happy to be a part of your life. Thank you for sharing!

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  2. Great to see you take the plunge Mike! Your a brave man and an excellent leader that I am sure will share superb experience and educational advice. Count me as a follower! Stay safe, Always Care, Paul

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  3. While we were making our retirement plans, I knew that retirement for you, wouldn’t begin as an immediate cessation from work nor from relationships. The enjoyment you had from work came partially from your strong desire to help others and to share things you have learned with others. In helping and sharing, you also learned many things that helped you grow. Now, this blog collection will help you to continue doing what you love to do most. I support you in this and all of your endeavors. Thank you for sharing your life and heart with me too.

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  5. Mike this is awesome! So glad you jumped into the blog waters! I always loved hearing you speak when you were with us at MSGS and now I can continue to learn from your words of wisdom!

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  6. Hi Mike . You are an espectacular source of experience and wisdom. It’s great that you are willing to share it. Count on me as your follower. I’m looking forward to learn from you and your blog followers. Good vibes on this journey !!

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  8. Mike,
    In my many years of executive management with the Secret Service I found leadership was more of an art with many situational nuances, and rarely a science. I look forward to reading about your life experiences and your vast insight to leadership. Your first blogspot shows us how we see small examples of leadership in daily activities, we all can benefit from these reminders.

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    • Well put Jim! You’ve always been a leader l’ve admired. Enjoyed working with you and your team when I was at Microsoft. Thanks for the feedback on the latest post. I hadn’t intended on writing one today but when I saw the Purser in action, I had to write about it. You take care amigo and thanks!

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