Letting go…

Sometimes letting go is good,

Be it a person you are letting go,

Be it thoughts you are letting go,

Be it habits you are letting go,

Be it dreams you are letting go,

It creates space for a better person,

It creates space for learning better things,

It creates space for better thoughts,

It creates space for better dreams,

So let go even if it feels bad,

Still, let it go.

Someone failed again today…

Someone failed again today,

But he did pick himself up and tried again,

And that is what makes the difference of the day,

Cause failures will keep coming,

Mistakes will keep happening,

What will keep one going,

Is the belief in self,

And the belief of loved ones,

So fear not of failures,

Fear the disbelief,

Fear the desperation,

Fear the thought of giving up,

And keep going.

Understand Your Approach to Collaboration…

Creativity isn’t a characteristic that you either have or don’t—we all possess it, and each of us approaches creative collaboration in a certain way. Understanding your own approach can give you the freedom to be yourself, play to your strengths, acknowledge your development areas, and partner with creative opposites who will complement your thinking style, greatly improving your work. Here’s how to take stock of your creative type. 

The next time you’re in a brainstorm or a team meeting, pay attention to when and how you contribute. Are you often one of the first people to speak, pitching novel ideas and generating starting points in conversation? If so, consider yourself an inventor. If, on the other hand, you tend to shape, refine, and build on other people’s ideas, then you’re more of an editor. These labels are imperfect, and they shouldn’t feel restrictive. But they can help you develop more self-awareness and position yourself—and your team—for more successful collaboration.

Allow the Other Person to Vent During a Difficult Conversation…

During a tense discussion with a colleague, it can be hard to remember that you’re not the only one who’s upset. When your counterpart expresses anger or frustration, don’t stop them. Let them vent as much as possible, and remain calm while it’s happening. Don’t interrupt the venting or interject your own commentary. While you’re doing this, you can either be completely quiet or indicate that you’re listening by using phrases such as “I get that” or “I understand.”

Avoid saying anything that assigns feeling or blame, such as “Calm down” or “What you need to understand is…” It’s important to give your counterpart this space, but that’s not to say it’s easy. If you can tolerate the venting, without judging, you’ll soon be able to guide the conversation to a more productive place.

Stop reading my blog…

In an era dominated by the internet, our reading habits have undergone a significant transformation. With an incessant influx of blogs, news articles, and social media posts vying for our attention, the art of delving into a book and truly immersing ourselves in its narrative seems to be slipping away. As I navigate through the pages of “The Shallows,” a thought-provoking book that delves into this very phenomenon, it strikes me that perhaps it’s time for a conscious shift in our reading preferences.

So, here’s a radical thought: Stop reading blogs. Yes, including mine. Instead, let’s reconnect with the beauty and depth found within the pages of a book.

The internet has bestowed upon us a vast expanse of information, condensed into bite-sized chunks for quick consumption. Skimming through blogs, scrolling through news feeds, and scanning social media posts have become the norm. However, this rapid consumption comes at a cost – the loss of deep engagement and thoughtful contemplation.

Books, on the other hand, offer an immersive experience that transcends the superficiality of online content. They allow us to dive into intricately woven stories, explore diverse perspectives, and stimulate our imagination in ways that fleeting online articles cannot.

There’s a unique joy in turning the pages of a book, feeling the texture, and savoring the scent of paper. Books beckon us to enter different worlds, traverse through time, and connect with characters on a profound level. They provide a sanctuary where we can disconnect from the chaos of the digital realm and engage in unhurried, meaningful reading.

The depth of insights gained from books is unparalleled. They challenge our intellect, broaden our horizons, and evoke emotions that resonate long after the final page is turned. Each book holds within it a treasure trove of knowledge, wisdom, and storytelling that cannot be replicated in short online snippets.

So, why not take a break from the incessant scrolling and dedicate some time to reading a book? Rediscover the sheer pleasure of getting lost in a story, exploring new ideas, or delving into a subject you’re passionate about. Allow yourself to revel in the slow, deliberate pace of reading a book—a pace that encourages reflection and understanding.

Let’s make a conscious choice to prioritize depth over brevity, and substance over speed. Let’s challenge ourselves to embrace the enchantment of books, to relish in their richness and complexity.

Reading a book isn’t just an activity; it’s an experience—a journey filled with discoveries, emotions, and enlightenment. So, to all avid readers and those seeking to rekindle their love for reading: Put down the blogs, pick up a book, and embark on an adventure that only the world of literature can offer. You’ll find that the exhilaration and fulfillment found within the pages of a book are truly unmatched.

My problem, your problem…

Life is a series of challenges, puzzles, and hurdles. Often, when faced with these obstacles, we instinctively categorize them into two compartments: “my problem” or “your problem.” This simple classification has significant implications for how we approach and resolve issues.

When something falls into the category of “my problem,” it becomes a weight on our shoulders, burdening us with stress, worry, and sometimes isolation. Conversely, when it’s labeled as “your problem” or someone else’s, we tend to detach ourselves, letting it drift away from our immediate concerns.

But what if we adopted a different perspective? What if we reframed these problems as “our problem”? This subtle shift in mindset could revolutionize the way we tackle challenges, not only on an individual level but also within teams, companies, and families.

Imagine a workplace where every obstacle is seen as a collective challenge. Instead of pointing fingers or attributing blame, the team unites to find solutions, offering support and expertise. In such an environment, problems become opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and growth.

The “our problem” mindset fosters a sense of shared responsibility. It encourages empathy, understanding, and a willingness to lend a hand. It’s not about shirking responsibility but rather acknowledging that everyone’s input and effort are crucial in finding solutions.

One of the most beautiful aspects of this approach is the journey it entails. Instead of merely focusing on the end goal of solving the problem, the emphasis shifts to the process itself. Working together, brainstorming ideas, and supporting each other through the ups and downs become integral parts of the experience.

Applying this fundamental principle to broader issues in the world holds immense potential. Whether it’s addressing social inequalities, environmental challenges, or global crises, viewing these problems as “our problem” ignites collective action and solidarity.

However, it’s essential to recognize that embracing “our problem” doesn’t mean disregarding personal boundaries or neglecting individual responsibilities. Rather, it’s about recognizing the interconnectedness of our lives and understanding that a shared approach often yields the most effective solutions.

So, how can we integrate this mindset into our daily lives?

Firstly, it begins with a conscious effort to reframe our thinking whenever a problem arises. Instead of defaulting to “mine” or “yours,” consider how it could be approached collaboratively.

Secondly, fostering open communication and a culture of support is crucial. Encourage discussions, value diverse perspectives, and create an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.

Lastly, celebrate the victories achieved together. Recognize and appreciate the collective effort put into finding solutions, reinforcing the idea that tackling problems as a team brings about shared success and growth.

In conclusion, adopting the “our problem” mindset can be transformative. It has the potential to not only resolve issues more effectively but also to strengthen relationships, foster a sense of community, and make problem-solving an enriching journey rather than a daunting task.

Let’s challenge ourselves to see problems not just as mine or yours but as opportunities for us to come together, support each other, and create a brighter future collectively. After all, when we make it “our problem,” the possibilities for positive change are boundless.

What to Do When Your Boss Keeps Changing…

If you work at an organization where constant reshufflings are the norm, you may find yourself with a new boss every few months. Here are some coping strategies.

  • Introduce yourself. Each time a new manager is appointed, you need to schedule a one-on-one meeting with them and bring a copy of your résumé. Talk about your working style, your strengths, and your goals.
  • Be accommodating. Ask your boss how they like to communicate, how often they want status updates, and how much detail they want in them. Then adapt your style.
  • Focusing on learning. Try to look at the prospect of a new boss as an opportunity to learn. Ask yourself: What can this person teach me?
  • Check your attitude. A new boss to get accustomed to is a challenge, but make sure you’re not wearing your annoyance on your sleeve. Channel your energy into making positive contributions to your organization.