(Jacquelyn Martin - AP) The threat of sequestration—the $109 billion in automatic, across-the-board spending cuts set to take effect on January 2 unless Congress reaches a compromise budget deal—is making federal leaders and employees very nervous.

In response to a recent column about ways federal leaders can encourage innovation and solve problems quickly, a reader pointed to the successful General Service Administration (GSA) program that helps the agency’s information-technology staff members understand their Web site deficiencies and make their sites more user friendly.

(Andy Lyons - GETTY IMAGES)

Are you familiar with the Fosbury Flop?

In the 1960s, a track and field athlete named Dick Fosbury developed a new high jump technique because he consistently failed to clear the bar using traditional methods. This unique “back first” approach helped him set an Olympic record and win the gold medal in 1968. This summer, virtually every high jumper will use his Fosbury Flop in the Olympics.

(Allie Ghaman/The Washington Post) I may be imagining things, but I’ve noticed a pattern. More and more federal leaders I know are monitoring and responding to emails, voicemails and other communication with their staff while on vacation.

I understand the temptation. Agencies are confronting big problems. The pace of change continues accelerating. Teams are short-staffed.

With many Washingtonians headed to the movies to cool off from this summer’s oppressive heat, I thought I would share some movie recommendations that provide a wide variety of valuable leadership lessons and approaches.

My 10-year-old son, Jack, is an avid movie buff so I’ve had the opportunity to recently see many of the latest new movies. Not only were these movies entertaining and action-packed, they each also imparted some insightful leadership lessons.