How work gets done

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 →

Monday Morning Meeting

Do you like Monday morning meetings?I do as a manager! For me, it is a good way to kick-start the week: take a quick progress update and discuss priorities for the week.I shifted away from Monday morning meetings, when I got feedback from a team member few years back. She said, “Padma, let’s plan our … Continue reading Monday Morning Meeting →

Rest isn’t lazy

Rest isn’t lazy!Life can get overwhelming—whether it’s deadlines, social commitments, or just the constant notifications pinging on mobile devices. When our minds don’t get a chance to recharge, we experience mental fatigue.Last week, I conducted a poll on signs of mental fatigue, here's what people had to say:👉 38% said feeling overwhelmed: making even simple … Continue reading Rest isn’t lazy →

Productivity Puzzle: Employees vs Leaders

“87% employees say they are productive, 12 % leaders are confident their teams are productive.” Microsoft 2023 Work Trend survey.What could be the source of this glaring productivity perception gap?Imagine this situation: Sonia, a marketing executive, spends her days meticulously crafting campaigns, attending meetings, and engaging with clients. To her, every task completed is a victory—a … Continue reading Productivity Puzzle: Employees vs Leaders →

Personal productivity – Complex interplay of individual and org culture

Few weeks back, I came down with food poisoning. I was not ill enough to stay in bed, so I decided to go to work. At the end of the day, I was surprised at how little work I could get done. Productivity as a concept has its roots in economy; it is the ratio … Continue reading Personal productivity – Complex interplay of individual and org culture →