How we think of our work influences how we approach it. Do we think of it as a ‘task’ or as ‘impact’? Any task will create an impact. So, does it really matter as to how we view it? It does, let’s see how…. Task is specific, its finite and neatly fits into our weekly … Continue reading How we approach our work: Task or Impact
Tag: personal effectiveness
‘Not to Judge’ – a difficult leadership lesson
We come across several situations in our lives – both personal and professional – when we tend to judge others’ actions as ‘right or wrong’, ‘acceptable or unacceptable’, ‘wise or not so wise’……. Let’s take an example: Say, a good assignment providing strong exposure and bright prospects for accelerated career growth has come up. Employees … Continue reading ‘Not to Judge’ – a difficult leadership lesson
Flow and emotional wellbeing
There are times when things seem to be going well. We then feel fortunate and happy. However, such good times also seem to last such a short while. So very soon, things seem to be falling apart. In our fast-paced lives, we often feel overwhelmed with stress, anxiety, frustration, anger… No wonder, conversations about emotional … Continue reading Flow and emotional wellbeing
Manager who always pushes the envelop
It is difficult to work with a manager who continuously pushes the envelope. However, this behavior enables his / her team members to learn, experiment, and do the very best, even surpassing their own expectations. They truly unleash the hidden potential. Agreed, working with such managers is not easy, can be truly frustrating… how about calling it the ‘cost of learning’, the ‘cost of becoming a better professional’ Maybe, it’s worth all the associated pain!
The Right Telescope
Pic Credit: 123rf.com Before telescope was invented, we could not see millions of stars in the cosmos. In fact, we were completely ignorant of their existence. The stars were always there! We did not have the lens to see them, till Hans Lippershey from Netherlands invented telescope in 1608. Or till Galileo turned his self-designed … Continue reading The Right Telescope
Making constructive feedback enjoyable 
Sharing constructive feedback is not something many people look forward to. What makes this conversation especially difficult is the difference in perspective: the person giving the feedback is likely to have a very different perspective from the person receiving it. It is hard for either member to know other’s perspective, and even harder to appreciate and acknowledge it. Four steps that can make this conversation inspiring 1. Start with intent 2. Understand the current reality faced by the receiver, share your feedback 3. Agree on common outcomes. 4. Explore options
The comfort of convention
Convention provides comfort… and natural gravitation towards it is understandable. Yet, what does it mean for our lives? work? organization? The same old! Same old everywhere…. Question for organizations, teams and individuals is to reflect: what can be done to break out of this comfort
Circle of Competence
The forty-five years of reign by Queen Elizabeth 1 was one of triumph and success, inspiring loyalty and creativity in her citizens. However, when she ascended the throne in 1558, her country was in a precarious political situation. What was her key to success? Of course, she had excellent education and was a survivor. However, … Continue reading Circle of Competence
Saying NO
World is full of opportunities – opportunities for exposure, growth, new areas of work, learning, relaxation…. When faced with so many choices, our natural tendency is to grab as many as possible! Right from our childhood, we have learnt never to miss an opportunity, who knows, we may never get it again. We take up … Continue reading Saying NO
Cultivate Naysayers
What emotions do naysayers stir in us? Irritation? Frustration? Anger? Or Joy? Relief? Imagine that you along with few members have worked on a solution for days or maybe weeks. You are excited and want to take inputs from larger team. What will be the natural tendency? To discuss it with folks who are likely … Continue reading Cultivate Naysayers
Perspectives 