If any of the following behaviors sound like you or someone you work with, beware! In Why CEOs Fail, David L. Dotlich and Peter C. Cairo describe the most common characteristics of derailed top executives and how you can avoid them: Arrogance you think that you're right, and everyone else is wrong. Melodrama you need to be the center of attention. Volatility you're subject to mood swings. Excessive Caution you're afraid to make decisions. Habitual Distrust you focus on the negatives. Aloofness you're disengaged and disconnected. Mischievousness you believe that rules are made to be broken. Eccentricity you try to be different just for the sake of it. Passive Resistance what you say is not what you really believe. Perfectionism you get the little things right and the big things wrong. Eagerness to Please you try to win the popularity contest.