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Showing posts from March, 2024

The “Settle In” Advice for New Jobs Is Dangerous

Introduction  When you join a new company, someone will probably tell you, “Don’t worry. Just take some time to settle in.” It sounds like good advice. After all, starting a new job can be overwhelming. There are new people, processes, systems, expectations, and ways of working. Naturally, you need time to understand your surroundings. But there is a problem with the “settle in” mindset. If you spend your first few months simply waiting to feel comfortable, you may lose the most valuable period of your transition. Your first 90 days are not just a period for settling in. They are a period for learning, building relationships, creating credibility, and understanding how you can make an impact.  Why “Just Settle In” Can Hold You Back  When people are told to settle in, they often become passive. They attend meetings, complete assigned tasks, observe what others are doing, and wait for someone to tell them what they should focus on. There is nothing wrong with observing. In ...

Five Habits of the Effective Executive: Peter Drucker

Introduction In the realm of leadership and management, Peter Drucker stands as an iconic figure whose insights continue to shape the way we perceive effective executive practices. Drucker, a renowned management consultant, educator, and author, emphasized the importance of cultivating habits that distinguish successful leaders. In this article, we will delve into five key habits of the effective executive as prescribed by Peter Drucker, shedding light on his timeless wisdom.  Five Habits of the Effective Executive by Peter Drucker 1. Setting Priorities with Precision: At the core of Drucker's philosophy lies the idea that effective executives are masters of prioritization. In his seminal work, "The Effective Executive," he emphasizes the significance of focusing on the vital few and ignoring the trivial many. Drucker encourages leaders to identify tasks that contribute the most to their organization's success and dedicate their time and resources to those priorities....

Three Buckets of Courage: Bill Treasurer

Introduction  In a world where challenges and uncertainties are an inherent part of the human experience, the concept of courage becomes a guiding force that propels us forward. Bill Treasurer, a renowned leadership expert, introduces a profound perspective on courage through his concept of the "Three Buckets of Courage." Let's delve into this framework that offers invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of courage and how it can be harnessed for personal and professional growth. Three Buckets of Courage 1. Try Courage: The Gateway to Exploration The first bucket in Treasurer's framework is "Try Courage," emphasizing the courage to step into the unknown, to venture beyond the comfortable confines of the familiar. It embodies the spirit of exploration, encouraging individuals to take risks and embrace uncertainty. Try Courage is the force that compels us to embark on new journeys, to pursue uncharted territories, and face the fear of the unknown with...

The Empty Boat and Young Monk

Introduction A long time ago, a young Zen monk lived in a little monastery in the forest by a small lake. The monastery was occupied by a few older monks, but the remainder were beginners who still needed to learn. The monks had numerous tasks at the monastery, but one of the most essential was their daily routine, which required them to sit down, close their eyes, and meditate. The monk struggled to focus during his meditation practice for several reasons, which irritated him. After that, I concentrated in quiet for hours at a time. After each meditation, they were to report back to their mentor on their development.  Anger of a Young Monk When the young monk reported his progress, or lack thereof, to his mentor, the senior monk asked him a simple question with a hidden lesson: "Do you know what is making you angry?" The young monk responded, "Well, normally, as soon as I close my eyes and begin to meditate, someone moves around and I lose focus. I am angry when someone...