One person works. Five people review. Everyone’s busy — but nothing really moves. I have seen this play out several times in organizations. One person — let’s call him Akarsh — is deep in the work. Focused. Careful. Trying to connect all the pieces. Above him are three people: each with “inputs,” “thoughts,” and “guidance.” … Continue reading How work gets done
Tag: #culture
What is your Relational Energy
We have all experienced it, at times without having the words to describe it.👁️🗨️ Experience 1: You present an idea to your manager. He listens, encourages you, and adds thoughtful suggestions. You walk out motivated and ready to do more.👁️🗨️ Experience 2: In a cross functional team meeting, you suggest an idea. Several members in … Continue reading What is your Relational Energy
Self-interest & Shared-interest
“One Glass Won’t Hurt… or Will It?” Once upon a time, a king wanted to understand how deeply his citizens cared for others—not just in words, but in action. He came up with a plan. He placed a massive cauldron in the courtyard and made an appeal: “Each of you bring a single glass of … Continue reading Self-interest & Shared-interest
Inspiring leader
Ever worked with a boss who inspired you? They probably did these 5 things.Imagine you have created a proof of concept for a new solution.You present it to your leader, let’s call her Sonia. She listens to your presentation and finally says, “I appreciate your efforts in putting this together. However, I am not comfortable … Continue reading Inspiring leader
The Manager’s Paradox
Some years back, my son — then a young boy — asked me a cheeky question. “I am your only child… so I can’t ask you who your favorite is. But you have worked with many team members over the years. Do you have a favorite?” I smiled and said, “Yes… I do have a … Continue reading The Manager’s Paradox
What does silence mean to you?
I was facilitating a two-day leadership workshop. One participant stood out—not for what he said, but for what he didn’t. He sat there like a mouse—listening and scribbling, barely speaking. Not in the large group, not even within his small group. As a facilitator, I couldn’t help but wonder: Is he uninterested? Is he struggling … Continue reading What does silence mean to you?
Boundaries
👉 “You are expected to be always on.”👉“You are teased as you are a teetotaler.”👉“People are baffled when you leave an office party early.”In today's diverse workplace, where multiple generations, genders, and backgrounds converge, boundaries are more important than ever. Yet, they often blur, leading to a workplace that's less respectful and inclusive.Here are the four … Continue reading Boundaries
Longer or smarter?
Sonia regularly spends long hours at office. Whereas, Anita leaves office on time most days.🔵 Is Sonia a high performer? And Anita a work shirker?🔵 Is sitting long hours regularly a sign of productivity or a sign of ineffectiveness?🔵 Do long hours show dedication or is it a performance illusion?Truth is sitting longer is not … Continue reading Longer or smarter?
What’s your frontline feeling?
I recently visited an electronics retail chain to purchase an OTG, a relatively simple product. Despite the product's modest price, the sales rep took time to understand my specific needs and suggested a product that fit them perfectly. When I showed interest in a different option, he patiently walked me through the pros and cons … Continue reading What’s your frontline feeling?
Are we respecting workplace boundaries?
Are we respecting workplace boundaries? When I was in my 20s and 30s, I commonly heard phrases like, "You are just like my daughter," or "You remind me of my sister," from managers or senior colleagues. These comments were meant to be an expression of care for my wellbeing and development. They were rarely questioned. … Continue reading Are we respecting workplace boundaries?
Perspectives 