Category Archives: Management

#152 The root of all ills in the workplace

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As I was idly thumbing through the latest copy of The Economist, I wondered why there is so much pain and suffering in the world. The Buddha has provided some reasons, but I was interested in a more practical answer.

There is no dearth of knowledge, talent, and resources in this world. Unless a problem has too much unknown about it (cure for cancer, travel to distant planets, and <insert your favorite bugbear here>), it can be solved handily with the capabilities we have today.

Then what is the problem? I was reminded of Pogo’s words, “We have met the enemy and he is us.” The human factor makes problems hard to define, hard to accept, hard to communicate, unpredictable, and just plan difficult. No amount of studying, learning, frameworks, tools, and techniques will work unless this fact is understood, and dealt with.

So when you come to work, be in the moment, go with the flow, commit yourself, and don’t let success or failure be your concern. In short, demonstrate leadership behaviors.

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#149 Point of view

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It is critical to have a point of view. The world around you wants to know what you think. The world also wants to know if you have an open mind and will be ready for alternative viewpoints.

The paradox created by these expectations has led to a lot of confusion. Some of you and your co-workers take a stand and stubbornly stick to your guns because you “need to have a point of view” and it’s a “matter of principle.” Others go with the flow, try to say “yes” to everything and appear weak and spineless. But in their mind, they have an open mind and are ready for alternate viewpoints.

The words of Obi-Wan ring true, “Luke, you will find that many of the truths we cling to depend greatly on our own point of view.”

A point of view provides a solid footing. Watch professional athletes, most of their power comes from a wide stance and balance. Also watch them change their feet and adjust, either to their opponent (martial arts) or to what their opponent does (tennis) or to their own plans (soccer).

Yes, you must have a point of view. Without that, your value in the workplace is diminished. The point here is to be mindful of your point of view so you know when it makes sense to be open. And  please, no clinging. Yes, that is a point of view (pun intended).

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