The Dangers of Generalization

Generalization is fairly common in our lives. It happens at multiple levels – country, state, race creed and even at individual level (based on life style, style of dressing, age etc.). There are reasons for generalization. Needless to say, some generalization helps us, especially in terms of getting a broad understanding of a culture or … Continue reading The Dangers of Generalization →

Facing difficult times? Look at the long-term and take holistic view

Few months back, I spent several hours counseling a junior colleague. She was disturbed that her salary was far lower than others in similar roles, with similar experience and qualification. She felt that despite being the most hard-working member in the team, she was not getting due recognition. And her promotion was delayed. She was … Continue reading Facing difficult times? Look at the long-term and take holistic view →

Scarcity: the Fountain of Creativity

The other day I came across some beautiful paintings done by an artist with no arms. He uses his feet and mouth to paint. He lost both his arms in an accident when he was still a child. But, this did not deter him from painting, something that he always wanted to do. He has … Continue reading Scarcity: the Fountain of Creativity →

Manage Agreement: Don’t let it become a Dysfunction

Leaders often find themselves managing conflict. And focus their efforts on resolving conflicts and helping teams work towards common goal. Can we consider agreement – the opposite of conflict – a boon? Is it good for teams? Will an agreement bring a team closer to success? Not necessarily; inability to manage agreement can also be … Continue reading Manage Agreement: Don’t let it become a Dysfunction →

Leading a team? Be aware of your mood; it could dim your team’s performance!

Annie walked into the CXO floor with a concerned look on her face. She had received a cryptic message from her boss asking her to meet right away. Before walking into his room, Annie couldn’t resist asking the secretary, “how’s boss’ mood today?” The secretary wasn’t surprised by her question, he responded with an understanding … Continue reading Leading a team? Be aware of your mood; it could dim your team’s performance! →

Engage in difficult conversations; ones that are needed and matter the most

We often come across situations that we find challenging to engage in. Consider few scenarios: Scenario 1. A senior executive is behaving in a dysfunctional way; his behavior is negatively impacting several people. But the business head procrastinates having the difficult conversation with him. Scenario 2. A business leader strongly feels that a delivery head … Continue reading Engage in difficult conversations; ones that are needed and matter the most →

When not to delegate?

Delegation is one of the first few skills taught to professionals once they transition into managerial roles. It is considered to be one of the good management practices; helping leaders get more work done and also enabling development of team members. However, we have all witnessed situations where improper delegation by the leader ended up … Continue reading When not to delegate? →

Want to be successful? Grow from your strengths

Once upon a time the animals decided to set up a school that would help their children develop all-rounded personality: ability to run, climb, fly and swim. The duck was excellent in swimming; he did better than his teacher! But, he just scraped through flying; and running was near impossible. Since he was poor in … Continue reading Want to be successful? Grow from your strengths →

When stuck with a bad boss

At some point of time in our career, we end up working for someone with whom we are unable to strike a rapport or see eye to eye. Changing the job or role is an option, but may not always be easy. This would be impractical; especially if you like your work and the organization. … Continue reading When stuck with a bad boss →

Managing the invaluable asset: Time

“Wish there were 36 hours in a day!” is not an uncommon wish. We are constantly pulled in multiple directions every single day; and 24 hours just don’t seem enough. As the expectations to deliver increase, the length of our ‘to do list’ increases proportionately. The picture on personal front is no different with hordes … Continue reading Managing the invaluable asset: Time →