tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56690949071661977562024-03-13T23:38:21.154+00:00CAMPTYS.COM - RamblingsAge old proverbs meet contemporary business and culture for personal transformationAndrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-71592001790112632712023-09-06T20:32:00.001+01:002023-09-06T20:32:39.731+01:00You can't use heart surgery to treat a head injury<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLJjkuuKOoOdkPy0nEFEyNcDCzDdKXaqS_6EAtuf3L5LyszajsKY-YWCgt7F29QE9xgRp5TyGyp26AF-zzJcG9ecqMLksugMv1_jIYhEPpRQCrWE7OimJh3nvj-yvfPuGNoJl6L3Dn7ZtApbN6qmYwiLFeu-t1P7sI-CPfBZbDXdrZcB_31AgnlnDHvwVw/s2000/Untitled%20design.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="2000" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLJjkuuKOoOdkPy0nEFEyNcDCzDdKXaqS_6EAtuf3L5LyszajsKY-YWCgt7F29QE9xgRp5TyGyp26AF-zzJcG9ecqMLksugMv1_jIYhEPpRQCrWE7OimJh3nvj-yvfPuGNoJl6L3Dn7ZtApbN6qmYwiLFeu-t1P7sI-CPfBZbDXdrZcB_31AgnlnDHvwVw/w650-h254/Untitled%20design.png" width="650" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I recently had a conversation with a colleague—Rainer, who mentioned that she went to court and was ordered to settle costs accrued because of a parking fine, initially $65.00. She had ignored the paperwork because she had recently become a caregiver for her husband, who was gravely ill with life-changing injuries he sustained in an accident. At this point, the amount owing had risen to $420.00 and Rainer was unable to afford the payment. She risked losing her property and dreaded the embarrassment that accompanies a visit from the bailiffs. She was surprised that the judge ordered her to pay, ignoring that she is the sole caregiver for her husband. </div></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">The above quote applies in Rainer's situation. The quote conveys a powerful metaphorical message that
underscores the idea that different situations and challenges in
life require different approaches and perspectives. It draws
attention to the inherent distinction between matters of the heart
and issues of the mind, suggesting that attempting to apply the
wrong approach to a given situation can lead to ineffective or
counterproductive outcomes.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">The matter went to court, and the judge had to consider the case objectively. While it is understandable that Rainer was experiencing challenges, it was important also that the decision was fair under the law. And while the judge may have discretion, he cannot be expected to file in a defendant's favor solely because he is sorry for her. The quote encourages us to recognize the importance of
discerning when to engage our emotions and when to engage our
rationality and how finding the appropriate balance between the
two is critical to navigating life's complexities. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">This quote invites you to recall instances when your heart has ruled your head to your detriment. There may have been instances when someone tugged on your heartstrings, and you made decisions against your better judgment. Think about those moments and how you feel afterward, especially if there was a fallout from the decision. Consider how it might have been different if you had listened to your inner voice, which whispered to you but which you had ignored. Think also about how you might have provided rational responses to situations where it might have been better to adopt a softer approach. Did you often have feelings of guilt or remorse? Let's look at other different potential applications: </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">PERSONAL PERSPECTIVES</span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Balancing Emotion and Reason: </b>The quote emphasizes
balancing emotional sensitivity and logical reasoning. Just as
heart surgery requires a precise and calculated approach, certain
situations demand a rational, analytical mindset. On the other
hand, matters of the heart often necessitate empathy, compassion, and a deep understanding of emotions. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Effective Communication:</b> The quote underscores the significance of effective communication. Recognizing when to convey
empathy and emotional support versus providing factual information can enhance conversation understanding and connection. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Coping with Loss and Grief: </b>When dealing with loss or grief, the quote emphasizes the importance of addressing both emotional pain and the need for coping strategies. It acknowledges that healing involves acknowledging and honoring the emotional aspects of the experience. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Making Informed Choices: </b>The quote encourages us to make informed choices by assessing the situation. Some decisions require careful evaluation of facts and data, while others may hinge on our personal values, beliefs, and feelings. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Conflict Resolution: </b>When conflicts arise, the quote suggests that successful resolution involves addressing the factual aspects of the disagreement and the underlying emotions and perspectives. Finding common ground often requires acknowledging and validating both sides of the equation. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Personal Growth and Healing:</b> The concept extends to personal growth and healing. A head injury necessitates specific medical treatment, while emotional wounds may require introspection, self-compassion, and seeking support to heal. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Relationship Building: </b>The quote has relevance in building and maintaining relationships. It highlights the necessity of empathetic listening and understanding the emotional needs of those with whom we interact. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Creativity and Innovation:</b> The quote can be applied to creativity and innovation, emphasizing the role of intuitive insight (heart) and critical analysis (mind) in problem-solving and creative endeavors. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Boundaries and Self-Care: </b>The quote encourages setting boundaries and practicing self-care. Recognizing when emotional involvement is draining or unproductive can help us prioritize our own well-being. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Personal Well-Being:</b> The quote reminds us of the importance of self-care and self-awareness. Paying attention to our emotional and mental needs contributes to overall well-being. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="font-family: trebuchet;">Navigating Personal Relationships:</b><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> In personal relationships, the quote highlights the need to approach each interaction considering both emotional and rational aspects. Misunderstandings can arise when one person focuses solely on logical arguments while the other seeks emotional validation or connection.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Learning and Education: </b>The quote highlights the value of fostering emotional intelligence alongside academic knowledge. Both are essential for well-rounded personal development. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Personal Values and Ethics:</b> When making decisions aligned with personal values and ethics, the quote prompts us to assess how these choices resonate with our emotions and rational beliefs.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="font-family: trebuchet;">Embracing Vulnerability: </b><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The quote invites us to embrace vulnerability. Just as a surgeon's precision is required for heart surgery, the vulnerability in sharing our emotions can lead to deeper connections and mutual growth. </span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="font-family: trebuchet;">Fostering Gratitude and Joy: </b><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The quote encourages us to nurture gratitude and joy. Recognizing emotional blessings alongside intellectual achievements leads to a more fulfilling and balanced life. </span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="font-family: trebuchet;">Parenting and Education:</b><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> The quote offers guidance in parenting and education. Tailoring approaches based on a child's emotional needs and intellectual development foster growth and understanding. It is also important to strengthen</span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> resilience in children by teaching them to recognize and manage their emotions alongside academic learning, equipping them with well-rounded tools for resilience. </span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><b>PROFESSIONAL APPLICATIONS</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">Leadership and Decision-Making:</b><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"> Effective leadership requires
recognizing when to lead with empathy and when to make tough
decisions based on data and strategy. Balancing these elements
fosters trust and clarity. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Embracing Emotional Intelligence: </b>The quote underscores the
value of emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize,
understand, and manage emotions in ourselves and others. It
suggests that effective problem-solving and decision-making
require not only intellectual acumen but also an awareness of
our own feelings and those of others involved. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Cultural and Social Understanding:</b> In navigating cultural or
social differences, the quote underscores the importance of
respecting diverse viewpoints and understanding the emotional
and intellectual contexts that shape them. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Intuition and Rationality: </b>The quote highlights the synergy
between intuition and rationality. Combining gut feelings and
emotional insights with reasoned analysis can lead to well-rounded, holistic perspectives. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Cultivating Empathy and Understanding:</b> The quote prompts
us to cultivate empathy and understanding in a world often marked
by divisions. Recognizing and addressing the emotional aspects
of differing perspectives can foster connections and bridge gaps. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Inclusivity and Diversity:</b> The quote underscores the importance
of recognizing and respecting varying emotional responses and
perspectives in diverse communities. Balancing these differences
contributes to a more inclusive and empathetic society. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Conflict Resolution and Mediation:</b> In conflict resolution, the
quote guides us to acknowledge and address both parties'
emotional experiences while working toward a fair and rational
resolution. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Time and Healing: </b>The quote suggests that some issues—
especially those involving emotions—require time for healing
and growth. Just as a head injury necessitates patience for
recovery, emotional wounds may take time to mend. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Strategic Decision-Making: </b>The concept extends to strategic
decision-making. By acknowledging emotional and rational
factors, leaders can make well-informed choices considering
immediate and long-term implications. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Societal Issues and Policy: </b>When addressing complex societal
issues, the quote reminds us to consider both the emotional
impact on individuals and the larger systemic changes required for
practical solutions. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Respecting Individual Journeys:</b> Applying the quote to
personal growth, it encourages us to respect our unique journeys.
Just as medical treatments are tailored to individual needs, our
paths to self-discovery and development should honor our distinct
emotional and intellectual landscapes. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Mindful Living:</b> Applying the quote to mindful living invites us to engage fully in each moment by balancing our
emotional experiences with present-moment awareness. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Mental Health Advocacy: </b>The quote can be applied to mental
health advocacy, reminding us of the need to offer empathy and
understanding to individuals facing mental health challenges. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Cultivating Emotional Resilience: </b>The quote highlights the
importance of cultivating emotional resilience. Just as a head
injury requires time and care, emotional strength is developed
through self-awareness and support. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Spiritual and Philosophical Growth: </b>The quote can extend to
spiritual and philosophical growth, encouraging seekers to explore
emotional and intellectual dimensions in their quest for
understanding. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Artistic Expression and Creativity: </b>In creative endeavors, the
quote reminds artists to infuse their work with emotional depth
and intellectual innovation, resulting in more impactful and
meaningful creations. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Empowerment Through Self-Awareness: </b>The quote emphasizes
the importance of self-awareness. By recognizing whether a situation requires emotional sensitivity or analytical thinking, we
empower ourselves to respond effectively. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Exploring Philosophy and Spirituality:</b> Applying the quote to
philosophical and spiritual exploration invites seekers to
integrate emotional experiences with intellectual inquiry for a
richer understanding of existence. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Crisis Management: </b>The quote speaks to crisis management,
emphasizing the importance of addressing immediate emotional
needs while implementing practical solutions. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Harnessing Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: </b>The quote
underscores the value of emotional intelligence for leaders.
Leading with empathy and understanding can foster employee
engagement, collaboration, and overall organizational success. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Navigating Life Transitions:</b> Applying the quote to life
transitions—such as career changes or relocations—it guides us
to honor the emotional impact of these shifts while making
practical preparations. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>The Art of Listening: </b>The quote reminds us of the art of
listening. We engage in more meaningful and effective communication by paying attention to spoken words as well as underlying
emotions.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Promoting Social Change:</b> In advocating for social change, the
quote shows the importance of addressing emotional and systemic
dimensions to create a lasting impact.
</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Building Authentic Relationships:</b> In building relationships, the
quote encourages authenticity. When we share our thoughts and
emotions openly, we create a foundation for genuine connections. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Cultural Competence: </b>The quote extends to cultural competence.
Understanding the emotional nuances of different cultures allows
us to engage respectfully and foster harmonious interactions. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Nurturing Creativity and Innovation:</b> The quote inspires a
multidimensional approach in creative fields. Nurturing both
intuitive inspiration and analytical refinement can lead to
innovative breakthroughs. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Supporting Mental Health Advocacy:</b> The quote aligns with
mental health advocacy. By acknowledging the emotional aspects
of mental health challenges, we reduce stigma and promote
compassionate support. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Celebrating Humanity's Complexity:</b> Ultimately, the quote
celebrates the complexity of the human experience. By embracing
the intricacies of both heart and mind, we honor the depth and
diversity of what it means to be human. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Empathy in Leadership:</b> The quote emphasizes that effective
leadership involves empathy. Leaders who understand the
emotional needs of their team members can inspire trust and
create a supportive work environment. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Reframing Negative Emotions: </b>The quote suggests reframing
negative emotions as signals for self-care. Just as pain denotes an injury, emotional discomfort prompts us to address underlying
needs. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Navigating Ethical Dilemmas:</b> The quote encourages us to
consider emotional implications and rational consequences before
making decisions when faced with ethical dilemmas. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Enhancing Conflict Transformation: </b>When engaging in conflict
transformation, the quote guides us to approach disputes with
empathy, acknowledging the emotional layers contributing to the
situation. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><b>Evolving Perspectives: </b>Reflecting on the quote can lead to
shifts in perspective. It encourages us to re-evaluate situations
with a more balanced consideration of both heart and mind.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">In summary, there is extensive overlap in the above as our personal lives spill over into our professional lives. Essentially, we must recognize that we are heart, mind, and spirit and must understand the dynamics and operate accordingly.</span></p>Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-13087184477465265392023-08-23T17:26:00.000+01:002023-08-23T17:26:27.217+01:00A Piglet Can’t Teach an Eaglet to Fly<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz02ZZBLEkCNZUQDZDJLdodvU0IA6aiB02s0_rD1fxEvonMm2_3_smS2StBCgBu2-Fh2McQ6lajNsJOCBAsElUaJ5TwCMyXlZVAijl8Dr8Ebp788EwLlkbiPf5mKZw5aUpxmt8wRbq7PBZZWja66KYBpNeIVeiWctAl1yXyWYMwz5Z1P0_zZpFwiY9iOdU/s1920/text%20to%20image%20samples.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz02ZZBLEkCNZUQDZDJLdodvU0IA6aiB02s0_rD1fxEvonMm2_3_smS2StBCgBu2-Fh2McQ6lajNsJOCBAsElUaJ5TwCMyXlZVAijl8Dr8Ebp788EwLlkbiPf5mKZw5aUpxmt8wRbq7PBZZWja66KYBpNeIVeiWctAl1yXyWYMwz5Z1P0_zZpFwiY9iOdU/w553-h312/text%20to%20image%20samples.png" width="553" /></a></div><h1 align="center" style="text-align: center;">(Exploring Life Lessons and Discovering Personal Development Secrets Through Inspirational Quotes, Proverbs & Metaphors)</h1>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">It is an indisputable
fact that a piglet cannot teach an eaglet to fly. This metaphorical wisdom
underscores a fundamental truth that applies not only to the animal kingdom but
also resonates deeply within the world of human endeavors. In this article, we delve
into the intricacies of this analogy and explore how it parallels the
intricacies of achieving success. I hope that this quintessential knowledge
that will elevate your understanding and prowess, allowing you to soar high
above the competition.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This quote "A piglet
can't teach an eaglet to fly" encapsulates profound wisdom that resonates
deeply with our journey towards self-improvement and growth. Just as the eaglet
possesses an innate ability to take flight, we too harbor untapped potential
within us that yearns to be unleashed. In this transformative exploration, we
delve into the layers of this metaphor and unveil the secrets it holds for
guiding us toward a life of boundless achievement and self-discovery.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Embracing Your Inherent Nature</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">At its core, the metaphor
underscores the significance of recognizing and embracing our inherent nature.
An eaglet is destined to soar through the skies due to its inherent abilities,
while a piglet's strengths lie elsewhere. There is a Spanish proverb
“¡Zapatero, a sus zapatos!” which means, “Shoemaker, to his shoes!” This truth
extends to our individual personal development journey, urging us to connect
with our authentic selves. Much like the piglet's futile attempts to teach an
eaglet to fly, disregarding our natural inclinations in favor of conforming to
societal norms can hinder our growth. By embracing who we are and acknowledging
our strengths and passions, we lay the foundation for genuine and enduring
self-improvement.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Guidance from the Skies</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Just as the eaglet seeks
guidance from its fellow eagles to master the art of flight, our journey
towards personal development is enriched by seeking guidance and mentorship
from those who have traversed similar paths. Surrounding ourselves with
individuals who have achieved what we aspire to accomplish provides us with
invaluable insights, strategies, and encouragement. The metaphor reminds us
that, just as a piglet lacks the expertise to guide an eaglet to fly, seeking
guidance from those who lack the necessary experience can impede our progress.
By aligning ourselves with the right mentors and resources, we expedite our
growth and amplify our potential for success.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Crafting Your Flight Path – Goal
Setting and Strategy</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The eaglet's flight isn't
a haphazard journey; it follows a deliberate path as it rides the currents of
the wind. Similarly, in our pursuit of personal development, setting clear
goals and crafting a strategic plan is essential. The metaphor reminds us that
a piglet lacks the wisdom to chart an eaglet's flight path, just as we must be
cautious when seeking guidance from those without a clear strategy. By
outlining our objectives, breaking them into actionable steps, and staying
focused on our course, we ensure that our personal development journey is purposeful
and effective.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Stepping Outside Comfort Zones</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Flight for the eaglet is
a leap into the unknown, a stretch of its wings and a test of its boundaries.
Likewise, personal development flourishes when we embrace discomfort and step
outside our comfort zones. There is a French proverb “L’appétit vient en
mangeant (Appetite is encouraged by eating) that aptly sums up this notion. It
means once you take steps to start anything you will eventually get to the
point where you start to enjoy it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
important thing is to start, despite the fear. Growth and transformation occur
when we challenge ourselves, confront fears, and take calculated risks. The
metaphor mirrors the piglet's inability to guide an eaglet into the skies,
illustrating that our personal growth stagnates when we remain confined within
our comfort zones. By embracing the unknown, we set the stage for exponential
personal development and self-discovery.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Belief in Your Wings and Trusting
Your Potential</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The eaglet's first flight
is a manifestation of its unwavering belief in its abilities. It trusts in its
wings and takes a leap of faith, defying gravity to soar to new heights.
Similarly, self-belief is a cornerstone of personal development. The metaphor
serves as a reminder that doubting our capabilities is akin to expecting a
piglet to teach an eaglet to fly. To truly soar in the realm of personal
development, we must cultivate self-belief, recognize our potential, and trust
in our ability to overcome challenges. By nurturing a strong belief in ourselves,
we unlock the doors to limitless growth.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Navigating the Storm</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Life, much like the skies
the eaglet conquers, presents its share of challenges and storms. It is during
these moments of turbulence that the lessons from the metaphor "A piglet
can't teach an eaglet to fly" shine most brightly. Just as the piglet's
attempts at flight are futile, seeking guidance from those ill-equipped to
navigate life's storms can lead us astray. Instead, we must draw inspiration
from the eaglet's resilience and tenacity. “Big tree noh cut dung wid one blow”
is how the Jamaicans communicate this phenomenon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The proverb literally translates: “one blow
is not sufficient to fell a big tree.” So, in navigating the storm do remember
that perseverance is the key and success takes time. In English societies the
saying “Rome wasn't built in a day” carries a similar meaning. By harnessing
our inner strength and weathering life's challenges, we emerge stronger, more
resilient, and equipped to soar even higher.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Overcoming Gravity and Pushing
Through Self-Doubt</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The act of flying defies
gravity itself, requiring the eaglet to push against the very force that seeks
to hold it down. Similarly, in personal development, we often encounter
self-doubt and internal resistance that can hinder our progress. The metaphor
underscores the significance of pushing through these mental barriers. Just as
a piglet's limitations prevent it from overcoming gravity's pull, our
self-doubt can keep us grounded. By cultivating a resilient mindset, challenging
negative thoughts, and believing in our capacity to overcome, we empower
ourselves to break free from the chains of doubt and reach new heights.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cultivating Authenticity</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The eaglet's flight is a
reflection of its unique identity and abilities, a testament to its
authenticity. In our personal development journey, embracing our authenticity
is paramount. The metaphor echoes the importance of acknowledging our
uniqueness, just as a piglet's attempts to teach flight underscore the folly of
conformity. By celebrating our individuality, we tap into a wellspring of
creativity, passion, and potential. When we align our actions with our true
selves, we unlock doors to innovation, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose that
propels us toward our aspirations.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Soaring Toward Fulfillment</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">In essence, the metaphor
"A piglet can't teach an eaglet to fly" encapsulates a profound truth
about human potential. Just as the eaglet's flight is an embodiment of its
innate capabilities, our personal development journey is a testament to the
boundless potential that resides within us. By recognizing our inherent nature,
seeking guidance from those who have navigated similar paths, cultivating
resilience, embracing discomfort, nurturing self-belief, setting goals,
uplifting others, pushing through self-doubt, and embracing our uniqueness, we
spread our wings and soar toward fulfillment.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Resilience </span></span></span></b><b><span style="line-height: 25.68px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">–</span></span></span></b><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;"> The Wind Beneath Your
Wings</span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The eaglet's journey to
flight is a testament to resilience and unwavering perseverance. Every attempt,
every flap of its wings, contributes to its eventual mastery of flight. Where
there’s a will, there’s a way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Spanish say it like this: “Donde hay gana, hay maña” meaning where there is
desire, there is ability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
resilience parallels our personal development journey, where setbacks and
challenges are inevitable. The metaphor emphasizes the piglet's limitations in
teaching an eaglet to fly, reminding us of the importance of cultivating
resilience and a steadfast commitment to our goals. By persisting through
challenges and setbacks, we fortify ourselves, building the wings that will
carry us to new heights of personal achievement.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Elevating Others </span></span></span></b><b><span style="line-height: 25.68px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">–</span></span></span></b><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Guiding Fellow
Eaglets</span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">While the metaphor
emphasizes the limitations of a piglet's guidance for an eaglet, it also holds
a lesson in mentorship and leadership. As we progress along our personal
development journey, we accumulate experiences and insights that can benefit
others. The saying: Each one Teach one is commonly banded about in English
communities and this concept suggests the importance of passing on knowledge to
those who come after you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is not only
in families or in communities but also in workplaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The concept of on-the-job training and
coaching comes to mind. Just as the eaglet's flight eventually enables it to
guide its fellow eaglets, we too have the potential to uplift and empower those
around us. By sharing our knowledge, providing guidance, and nurturing the
growth of others, we contribute to a collective journey of transformation and
empowerment.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Flight of Continuous Growth</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The eaglet's mastery of
flight is not a singular event but a continuous process of refinement and
growth. It hones its skills, adapts to changing conditions, and consistently
strives for improvement. Similarly, personal development is a lifelong journey
that requires ongoing dedication and self-reflection. The metaphor reiterates
that shortcuts and quick fixes are of limited value, just as a piglet's
inability to teach an eaglet to fly underscores the importance of consistent
effort. By committing to continuous learning, self-awareness, and improvement,
we position ourselves to evolve into the best versions of ourselves.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Business Considerations</span><o:p style="font-size: 12pt;"></o:p></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The metaphor "A
piglet can't teach an eaglet to fly" holds valuable lessons for the world
of business, offering insights into leadership, teamwork, growth, and success. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="margin-left: 54pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -36pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">i)<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span>Leadership
and Mentorship<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Just as a piglet lacks
the expertise to guide an eaglet to fly, effective business leaders understand
that mentorship and guidance should come from those with relevant experience.
In the business world, seeking advice and mentorship from seasoned
professionals who have achieved success in a similar field can significantly
impact growth. Aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders benefit from
learning from those who have navigated challenges, providing insights that can
help them make informed decisions and avoid pitfalls.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="margin-left: 54pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -36pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">ii)<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Embracing
Core Competencies<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">In the same way that an
eaglet is naturally equipped for flight, businesses should focus on their core
competencies. Attempting to venture into areas that do not align with their
strengths can lead to inefficiencies and hinder growth. Recognizing and
capitalizing on strengths while forming strategic partnerships or outsourcing
areas of weakness can optimize business performance and results.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="margin-left: 54pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -36pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">iii)<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span>Team
Dynamics and Skill Alignment<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Similar to the eaglet
seeking guidance from fellow eagles, businesses thrive when teams collaborate
and learn from one another. Effective teams leverage each member's unique
strengths and skills. This metaphor underscores the importance of placing the
right individuals in the right roles to ensure efficient operation and success.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="margin-left: 54pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -36pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">iv)<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Strategic
Planning and Goal Setting<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Just as an eaglet's
flight follows a deliberate path, businesses should craft clear goals and
strategic plans. This metaphor highlights the necessity of having a
well-defined strategy to navigate market challenges and changes. Setting
measurable objectives and breaking them down into actionable steps ensures that
businesses progress purposefully toward their desired outcomes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="margin-left: 54pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: left; text-indent: -36pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v)<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Innovation
and Risk-Taking<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Just as the eaglet
embraces discomfort in its first flight, businesses that step outside their
comfort zones often drive innovation and growth. Taking calculated risks,
exploring new markets, and adopting emerging technologies can propel a business
forward. The metaphor encourages businesses to embrace change and seek opportunities
beyond familiar territory.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="margin-left: 54pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -36pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">vi)<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Belief
in Vision and Adaptability:<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The eaglet's first flight
symbolizes unwavering self-belief. Similarly, businesses need to believe in
their vision and adapt to evolving market conditions. Having confidence in
one's business model, coupled with the ability to pivot and adjust strategies
when necessary, is crucial for sustained success.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="margin-left: 54pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -36pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">vii)<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Resilience
in the Face of Challenges:<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Life's challenges, akin
to the storms an eaglet faces, are inevitable in the business world. Just as
the metaphor suggests seeking guidance from experienced sources, businesses
should turn to industry experts or mentors during challenging times. Embracing
resilience, learning from setbacks, and applying lessons learned can help
businesses weather storms and emerge stronger.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="margin-left: 54pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -36pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">viii) <span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Continuous
Learning and Improvement<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The eaglet's journey is
one of continuous growth and refinement. Similarly, businesses should
prioritize ongoing learning and improvement. Adapting to changing market
trends, investing in employee development, and staying informed about industry
advancements are essential for staying competitive and achieving long-term
success.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="margin-left: 54pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -36pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">ix)<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Empowering
Others and Building a Strong Team<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The metaphor encourages
uplifting fellow eaglets, highlighting the importance of leadership in
nurturing growth. In a business context, this translates to fostering a culture
of mentorship, where experienced team members guide and empower newer members.
Building a cohesive and supportive team environment enhances collaboration and
promotes collective success.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="margin-left: 54pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -36pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">x)<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Strategic
Investment and Resource Allocation<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Just as an eaglet's
flight requires strategic navigation of wind currents, businesses must allocate
resources wisely. This metaphor underscores the need for careful planning and
resource management. Investing in areas that align with the company's strengths
and objectives while minimizing wastage contributes to efficient growth.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">In conclusion, the
metaphor "<b>A piglet can't teach an eaglet to fly</b>" serves as a guiding
light for our personal development journey. Just as the eaglet's flight is an
embodiment of its inherent potential, our quest for self-improvement is a
testament to the vast reservoir of untapped talents within us. By embracing our
inherent nature, seeking guidance from mentors, cultivating resilience,
embracing discomfort, nurturing self-belief, and committing to continuous
growth, we can unleash the inner eaglet as we propel ourselves toward soaring
heights of personal achievement and fulfillment. The metaphor also offers a
range of insights applicable to various aspects of the business world. From
leadership and mentorship to strategic planning and innovation, these lessons
can guide businesses in achieving sustainable growth and success.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">As we navigate the skies
of personal development and business prowess, may we remember the wisdom of the
eaglet and its indomitable spirit. Let us spread our wings, overcome
limitations, and soar towards our true potential, unfazed by the
well-intentioned but misguided efforts of piglets along the way.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">__________________<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">If you're keen to explore
other inspirational and creative articles on personal development, please sign up to this blog:
<a href="https://camptys-andrea.blogspot.com">https://camptys-andrea.blogspot.com</a> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">#personaldevelopment #selfdeveloment #entrepreneurship #criticalthinking #inspirationalquotes #creativethinking #personalgrowth #businessdevelopment</span></span></p><p></p>Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-63836619692215165172022-05-12T13:28:00.000+01:002022-05-12T13:28:07.797+01:00The tree that grows in a rubbish dump<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisvh3Ysluss7jWH1eA7rWfBjT6AZ4CPWijRvDHxq7-5ttxHVtqcCtmbZLsAtE_SeCa13Qlj32YuNdYHR2aZLEdpG3Tx-Wotg8-WaFHFcZh-3xfuMc0QxdAtAuPYFz4Y-cNNeX4olLvzv7LSkjQWvaZ9bVZxAqviwcyBn8mDsK6EeySbB3-5qTVoAZSA/s3840/Single-tree-garbage-wreckage_3840x2160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisvh3Ysluss7jWH1eA7rWfBjT6AZ4CPWijRvDHxq7-5ttxHVtqcCtmbZLsAtE_SeCa13Qlj32YuNdYHR2aZLEdpG3Tx-Wotg8-WaFHFcZh-3xfuMc0QxdAtAuPYFz4Y-cNNeX4olLvzv7LSkjQWvaZ9bVZxAqviwcyBn8mDsK6EeySbB3-5qTVoAZSA/w487-h273/Single-tree-garbage-wreckage_3840x2160.jpg" width="487" /></a></div><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><div style="text-align: center;"> Courtesy of: https://es.best-wallpaper.net/Single-tree-garbage-wreckage_iphone_wallpaper.html</div></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; text-align: justify;">A tree that grows in a
rubbish dump does not produce rubbish; it blossoms and produces fruit of its kind.
Too often, we believe that our humble beginnings hinder our progress in life.
We are each born under different circumstances - different countries, cultures
and social standing, but we all have an equal right to aspire higher.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; text-align: justify;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt;">The fact that your
surroundings are not impressive or that you were not born with money does not
deny you the right to thrive and grow. We are often the architects of our failure
because we focus on the rubbish and use it as a crutch - an excuse to drag
ourselves through life. A tree that is planted among rubbish draws whatever
nutrients it can from that rubbish and yields produce. Its fruit is as sweet or
as sour as similar trees, and it grows to its usual stature. We should take a
leaf from that tree and seek out opportunities from within our circumstances.
We should use the challenges we face as footstools and ladders to get where we
want to go. Unfortunately, many of us do not know where we want to go, or we
fear the unknown, so we do not embark on our journey in the first place. We are
scared to take risks, and as life has no guarantees, we play it safe and stay
on the sidelines, leading mediocre lives.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">We should not focus on
the disappointments, hurts and pains we suffer - they help build our story but will
not propel us to the achievement of our destiny. For example, if you don't know your father or you were raised in the ghetto that should not scar you for life. We have a right to be hurt but not to remain wounded. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt;">Our mind is not made for
storing rubbish – it is made to enable us to face life challenges and make a
difference for ourselves and others. We should use our stories to inspire others, not to drag us down.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; font-size: 14pt;">There is no excuse,
for it's not where we start but our attitude to life. It is about recognising
what we have within—our innate talents and abilities coupled with a
determination to serve and aspire higher. Every human being, able-bodied or
differently-abled has something to offer; we have a mission in life and have to
develop the vision to see it through. There is a Spanish proverb: Cría fama y
échate a dormir. Literally it states: Raise
fame and lie down to sleep. And what it means is: Your reputation follows you.
So, it's about your reputation at the end of the day—the person you become, despite of your humble beginnings or unfavorable situations in which you find yourself. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Despite the challenges
we face in life, we should seek to
maintain a rubbish-free mind and experience a paradigm shift in our thinking if
that's what it takes to pursue our goals. The great men of old— the inventors,
activists and scientists were not endowed with everything they wanted. Many of
them started in the rubbish, but they recognised that what was within them was greater
than what was around them. They believed they could effect change and create
impact, even when they consistently failed. We remember their names today, not
because of how they started, but rather how they ended. We all have to be
grateful to them for the benefits we enjoy today for like the trees, they grew
and spread their branches to provide shade and a place for us to rest, even
when their roots were grounded in the rubbish dump.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;">In the workplace</span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">When we are in
positions of power, we have the opportunity to impact people and empower them
to be their best selves. Whether it be position power, expert power, resource
power or personal power, we should not use it to wield authority to the
detriment of people. Good leaders inspire and empower. If people in your workspace
feel like rubbish, they will not produce the best work for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Recognise that every person has the exact
basic needs, hurts the same way and has the same dreams to be successful.
Irrespective of how much money you have, you still need people to spend it with
and indeed to help you make it. Ultimately, it is not your money that will
bring you a cup of tea if you should feel faint.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Let us, therefore, go
forward with a positive attitude, safe in the knowledge that though we may find
ourselves navigating rubbish situations, we are not rubbish, and we have no
business imbibing the rubbish that we may encounter in our environment. Let us
be aware of the needs of others and not let their circumstances hinder us.
Indeed, let us be proactive in lifting each other out of any rubbish situations
they find themselves in, always aware of our own humanity. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Instead of focusing on
the rubbish, let us focus inward to manifest outwards the attributes with which
we have been endowed and entrusted as custodians to deliver to those we meet
and those who may yet traverse our path. In the same spirit, let us take steps
to clean up our environment so that those whose lives we touch may have a clean
and healthy space to thrive and grow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><br /><p></p>Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-16107258475086629752017-06-26T20:55:00.043+01:002023-08-12T02:38:10.783+01:00Walk is better than sit<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wI1vLY-O8AHhYICqhrXqFCpebITF5BL-y4AwfF3i05pyNbCb2CkhpYnSHDML762IFEAwvuoOufxaaabqmOIp4xuKKcWiBhD3eloKxJJeYx-qbGYmjcMU2-DJGvdfiiLF__djCGUauVaBDYXw4psq8CtAvc3LJ3rkm24op3epdonlIoaw__qCw6_iP6bf/s507/leisure-time-1551705_640.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="507" height="369" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wI1vLY-O8AHhYICqhrXqFCpebITF5BL-y4AwfF3i05pyNbCb2CkhpYnSHDML762IFEAwvuoOufxaaabqmOIp4xuKKcWiBhD3eloKxJJeYx-qbGYmjcMU2-DJGvdfiiLF__djCGUauVaBDYXw4psq8CtAvc3LJ3rkm24op3epdonlIoaw__qCw6_iP6bf/w442-h369/leisure-time-1551705_640.jpg" width="442" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo courtesy of Nicki
Löschner on Pixabay</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-size: 21px;">Last week I attended a religious event after umpteen invitations by a friend. The session was very enlightening and I met many interesting people. At the end of the event, I had the opportunity to introduce the </span><a href="https://pocketlearner.net/index.html" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: #8c68cb; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Pocket Learner</a><span style="font-size: 21px;"> – our educational programme which empowers parents and carers of children with cognitive disabilities. To my surprise 90% of those in attendance expressed an interest in the project – whether as end users or as distributors. </span></div></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">For several months I had found excuses to avoid attending the meeting – it’s too cold, too far, it lasts too long, finishes too late, the list goes on. Now that I had taken the time to attend, I realised the value in making the effort, even when I could not see the benefits I focused on this experience I realised that there was a similarity with the attitude to life that many of us sustain. We all have gifts and talents which we fail to explore or enrich, effectively sitting down on them. Talents exist to be nurtured and grown; we should add value to them and use them to our benefit and that of others with whom we encounter. </div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">In many cases our inaction is driven by fear; we dread the possibility of catastrophic failure or the fact that we could be ridiculed by others. We are scared of slipping and falling so we sit down in our comfort zones, or cower in corners and watch from the side-lines. We fail to realise that we do not grow when in a relaxed mode, we need to step outside our comfort zones if we are going to make an impact. Jamaicans say<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">: “Mongoose says that a man who can’t take risks is not a man”</em>, i.e. taking risks is a life skill.</div>
<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.85); font-family: "Source Sans Pro", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin: 2.8rem 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If we want change we have to propel that change</strong></h2>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
It is not unusual for those who venture out to lose their way but generally they rediscover their path and are stronger for the experience. Indeed every person who is successful has experienced failure. Falling is acceptable provided we pick ourselves up and finish our race. In life’s amusement park it is those who dare to venture who enjoy the best rides. If we settle in perpetual comfort we will not grow; there are mountains to climb if we want to see the other side and often that climb is extremely tiring. </div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Recently there was a fire in London and as I watched in awe I thought about the loss of life of so many young people who will never get a chance to continue their race. Life is for living now; tomorrow is not promised! There is an English proverb: “<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Procrastination is the thief of time”.</em> We should therefore choose to start our walk today, not sit and “wait and see what happens”. If we want change we have to manufacture that change, become a catalyst, a stimulus for that change. </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Last Christmas I made a conscious effort to visit neighbours and friends who are housebound. On every occasion my life was enriched. In some cases I received physical gifts and in others I benefited from the wealth of knowledge shared by my more elderly hosts. I still recall and relish moments I spent with them; it really was better to walk than to sit. When we give of ourselves to others we also receive. Giving, whether tangible or intangible – a listening ear, a short visit, a kind word, encouragement, funding… enable us not only to reach out to others but also to reach within ourselves. </div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Being a blessing to others brings joy and other intrinsic outcomes that money cannot buy. There is no greater feeling than the opportunity to observe personal and professional growth engendered by our efforts. Sometimes that small gift is all an individual needs in order to propel them to the next level. Jamaicans explain it in this way: <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“If you back monkey it will fight tiger</em>” i.e. support and encouragement boost people’s confidence enabling them to embrace bigger, more rewarding challenges. Do your bit for mankind!</div>
<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.85); font-family: "Source Sans Pro", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin: 2.8rem 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If you walk today, chances are you'll run tomorrow </strong></h2>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The act of giving does not mean that we encourage dependency; it simply means that we should be good neighbours and in the process impact positively on the life others. Too often we choose to be judgmental, focusing on other people’s circumstances. If you find yourself judging the other person it is better not to give, for that giving would not have come from the heart. </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Opportunities are lurking in every corner, if only we would stop focusing on the negativity around. Don’t dwell on the past mistakes of yourself or others – what’s done is done. See today as a good day and get up and walk! If you walk today, chances are tomorrow you could run. You will fall sometimes; that’s acceptable. Get up, learn your lessons, recognise your humanity and try again.</div>
<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.85); font-family: "Source Sans Pro", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin: 2.8rem 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Businesses too, need to walk and not just sit</strong></h2>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
As business owners we too have to recognise the importance of walking and not merely sitting. Those who perpetually operate at the same level - continuously sitting and not walking - will not grow. We have to introduce new ways of working and encourage the creativity of our colleagues and employees. We cannot afford do adopt a “if it’s not broke don’t fix it” attitude. If we invite and encourage complacency we’ll be overtaken and soon enough taken away by the undertaker. Ten years ago many of us did not do business online; nowadays we have to consider and explore how we can add value via this medium. There is a Spanish proverb:<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </strong><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Camarón que se duerme se lo lleva la corriente</em><strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </em>- </strong>The shrimp that falls asleep is swept away by the current i.e: You snooze, you lose.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
How many of our small organisations sustain a corporate social responsibility budget? More important still how many actively seek to support vulnerable people or contribute to charitable causes? The same principles of giving as an individual obtain in the case of organisations, large and small. It is not accidental that Bill Gates is one of the richest men in the world. Here’s a quote from him: “<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Money has no utility to me beyond a certain point. Its utility is entirely in building an organisation and getting the resources out to the poorest in the world.”</em></div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Have a heart</strong></div>
<div class="slate-resizable-image-embed slate-image-embed__resize-left" data-imgsrc="https://media.licdn.com/mpr/mpr/AAEAAQAAAAAAAA2dAAAAJGM2MzQyYzE2LTY4NzgtNGYxOS1hZGIzLTg1ZGY4ZGFiMDY3YQ.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; clear: both; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); float: left; font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin: 0px 32px 0px 0px; max-width: 432px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">It is not good enough to say the company's profit margins are slim so there isn’t enough available to give. Small contributions will have very little impact on your organisation but may bring significant benefit to others. My organisation sends items to disabled children and their families in different developing countries every year; it is such a joy to see the difference it makes to recipients. We have now developed <a href="https://pocketlearner.net/index.html" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: #8c68cb; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">The Pocket Learner</a> and we are keen to find partners and well-wishers to enable us to distribute the resource to vulnerable and disabled children living in deprived areas or disadvantaged situations.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Let us make a commitment to start walking while we still can. Let us, in our walk, remember those who are most vulnerable and open our hands and hearts. Clenched fists can’t give and certainly they cannot receive.</div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-73785173827776865742017-02-23T00:40:00.001+00:002017-02-23T00:40:54.031+00:00One Fool Makes Many<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Today I dropped my little girl at school and on exiting the compound I saw a group of parents at the gate which appeared locked. On approaching the area one of the individuals told me that the gate was locked and that they were waiting for someone from the school office to release it. I approached the gate and saw that the padlock was indeed locked but not holding the gate. I pushed the gate and <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">voilà</em>, it opened! The others were surprised; we laughed as we all went our separate ways.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The above scenario made me think - Why didn’t one of them try to open the gate? Who had set the pace? What would have been the breaking point and when would it have come? Although this was a simple scenario, I saw it as herd mentality showing how people are influenced by others and therefore adopting different behaviours.</div>
<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.85098); font-family: "Source Sans Pro", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin: 2.8rem 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Be your own man!</strong></h2>
<div class="slate-resizable-image-embed slate-image-embed__resize-full-width" data-imgsrc="https://media.licdn.com/mpr/mpr/AAEAAQAAAAAAAAxzAAAAJDIwYWYzMjdkLTdmYmEtNDdkMS04M2M4LThmMzdiZGY4MDYwZA.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; clear: both; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin: 3.2rem 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
In life we often allow others to order our steps instead of charting our own paths. It is more comfortable to behave “normally” rather than run the risk of ruffling feathers or being laughed at. But what is normal? My definition of normal changed when my little girl was born with a disability and I realised that “normal” is, like “beauty” – in the eyes of the beholder. (Being able to appreciate her beauty instead of her shortcomings led to the development of the <a href="http://pocketlearner.net/" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: #8c68cb; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Pocket Learner</a> which beautifies the lives of others as they raise aspirations by learning to read.) It may be normal for me to walk two miles to work whereas someone else may view that as crazy! Yet, for another person it is normal to walk 5 miles or more on a daily basis. We should not allow ourselves to be bullied by those who “<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">shout the loudest</em>”. We should not allow others to describe our “Normal”!</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
When I had pushed the gate, I was taking a risk of being ridiculed. That was a chance I was willing to take for I am not bothered by the potential actions of others. By letting other people determine our steps we ignore opportunities to exploit our talents and creativity. We miss out on our potential for success because we are too afraid to trust our instincts. There is a French proverb that says - <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“A vaincre sans péril, on triomphe sans gloire” (To win without risk is a triumph without glory). </em>By pushing the gate I was swimming against the tide at the risk of being judged by people I would see every day. "<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">You can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs</em>" is another proverb that is relevant. If we remain behind the gates we will never know what could have been… which floodgates we could have opened, whose life we could impact, how we could change the world. We should not worry about other people’s concerns, for our dreams are not theirs to see; it is for us to realise.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
What’s the worst that can happen? One fails. But that’s not the end of the world so we must get up and get going again. We remain focused but not so focused that we fail to live and to love along the way. Life has a way of humbling one, if one is not humble. What is important is how we recover from failure, the lessons we learn, whom we teach, the laughter, the tears – in effect the full repertoire of a life well lived. <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the USA said</em>: “In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years”. How true! </div>
<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.85098); font-family: "Source Sans Pro", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin: 2.8rem 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Take the padlock off you!</strong></h2>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Sometimes the padlock on the gate seems locked but in reality it’s the padlock in our minds and hearts that needs unlocking. It’s your innate creativity that is waiting to be released into the stratosphere propelling you to the next level. <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“The only thing we have to fear is...fear itself…”</em> <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">(Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, USA)</em>. It is the goodness in our hearts that craves to be unleased on the world but nothing will happen until you do something. The more uncomfortable it is, the more interesting the ride and the more life-changing it can be. There is a Spanish proverb that puts it like this: <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">A mas honor, mas dolor (The more the danger, the greater the honour)</em>. Running around on the ground with chickens, scratching here and there eking out a living can never produce the joy of soaring to higher heights like eagles. They don’t settle on lowly pastures, rather, they rise above the storm riding on its winds; at rest while those below are tossed about. </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Those of us who take our chances despite the fear we feel often face criticisms and abandonment from those who fail to understand our actions. Whether they act out of love, fear, envy or hatred, the impact is the same – frustration of our efforts. Many of those who love us, out of their own fears and inhibitions seek to protect us from the daggers in society, perceived or real. I heard a prominent African pastor relate how his parents both died when he was a teenager and their death, though it brought pain in the short term, turned out to be the stimulus which propelled him into the stratosphere. He was able to take risks which he could never have taken had his mother been alive. Today he is a very successful man with a mega church; he founded a university, sits on various boards and travels the world preaching and teaching. Had he focused on and internalised popular ideas about black people being unable to achieve, the perceived lack of opportunity, his poverty-stricken environment, and the bankruptcy mentality of many in his milieu he would have padlocked himself into a box, thus creating a barrier to the extensive personal and professional growth he achieved. We should never entertain the idea of inferiority for no one is better than the other - we all have the same needs and we all do the same things to survive.</div>
<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.85098); font-family: "Source Sans Pro", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin: 2.8rem 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">It can be a lonely road</strong></h2>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
We all want the same things in life but only a few of us are willing to take the necessary steps to achieve them. While embarking on actions to bring about change we often find that we are alone, with no one willing to show their hand but once we achieve our goal we find many partakers, indeed some who claim to have shared our struggle. That shouldn’t stop us from pursuing our goals and breaking moulds. Life is not a popularity contest; those who succeed are those who, despite the challenges, loneliness and pain continue to strive, falling over but getting up and getting going again. We are all partakers of the success of efforts of those who have gone before; many of whom never lived to see the fruits of their labour. It is our responsibility to build on their work so that future generations can benefit from our efforts too. <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">To whom much is given, much is expected (St. Luke 12).</em> It is our duty to keep going, even when it’s a lonely road.</div>
<div class="slate-resizable-image-embed slate-image-embed__resize-full-width" data-imgsrc="https://media.licdn.com/mpr/mpr/AAEAAQAAAAAAAA2QAAAAJDg0YjM2OGM5LWFlNDMtNDk5My05MWY4LTgzNTEyYmM0ZGMyMA.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; clear: both; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin: 3.2rem 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.85098); font-family: inherit; font-size: 26px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Words alone don’t change anything, unless you are God </strong></div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
There are many people from all walks of life who have ideas that could carpet the world several times over. Some are very good ideas, some need work. Yet they have never lifted a finger to come into their purpose, they fail to build character and create impact. Indeed many good ideas lay in the burial ground never to be explored and we the people are no richer for it. There is a thin line between planting and burying; we have to ensure we chose the correct one. We should bury the past and plant the future.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
For those of us who have faith we should also realise that prayer alone does not bring change. <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“Faith without works is dead”</em> (The Bible: James 2) so there is no point praying and hoping that someone else will <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“be the change you want to see in the world”</em> - Mahatma Gandhi. If we want to experience change in our lives it has to start with us. It takes a paradigm shift in the mind with the acknowledgement that we are responsible for our own destiny, irrespective of any external or environmental factor. We can’t keep blaming others or the system or other phenomenon for our lack of growth. We have to look into our lives and see the opportunities available or the ones we can create. When I looked at my little girl with her disability and saw how enthusiastic she was to learn it was clear to me that this was an opportunity to impact many lives, so with her help we created <a href="http://pocketlearner.net/" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: #8c68cb; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">The Pocket Learner,</a> an innovative educational tool that opens the door for many who struggle to learn. Life without learning is not living; we must continue to learn and put our learning into action. Words alone do not change anything.</div>
<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.85098); font-family: "Source Sans Pro", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin: 2.8rem 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Becoming agents of change</strong></h2>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
As managers/owners of organisations we should consider:</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
- Are we swimming against the tide and allowing our people to chart their own paths?</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
- Do we foster a culture of creativity or do we install padlocks in our workplaces? </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
- Do we encourage a herd mentality - the dreaded “groupthink” in order to achieve a “comfortable” existence?</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
- Are we afraid of challenge and so stifle novel ideas before they emerge?</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
- What is the legacy of our businesses – are we in it for the money only or are we impacting lives.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
- Do we have a corporate social responsibility budget and what do we use that budget for? </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 21px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 3.2rem; margin-top: 3.2rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
We cannot allow others to push us into a position where we are concerned only about our competitiveness and neglect our duty of care for stakeholders and the wider society. We must operate ethically and protect our integrity. We have to be aware of the tide but not be unduly influenced by the tide. It is said that <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">everybody is somebody’s fool</em> but we would do well to avoid the company of negative people because <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, "Source Serif Pro", serif; font-size: 0.975em; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">one fool makes many</em>! </div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-20233021798675777902016-06-05T01:24:00.000+01:002016-06-05T01:24:12.275+01:00Don't judge a book by its cover<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
This week I paid a visit to Ms D, an elderly lady who has cerebral palsy. With the exception of the occasional visit to church she is basically confined to her home. I endeavour to visit her as often as possible to help with chores and complete the odd task. As her eyesight is failing she often asks me to read her mail and prepare documentation. I am not related or obligated to Ms D but it is a joy to be able to carry out this labour of love for someone who needs it. <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth (Muhammad Ali</em>).</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
During a recent visit Ms D told me about a love affair she had when she was in her 50s. The gentleman concerned was married and a member of the church. She spoke with passion about the relationship which lasted several years until his death some 20 years ago. While I enjoyed our chat I was secretly bemused by the fact that Ms D, as disabled and pious as she was, had participated in such a liaison. I found it difficult to conceive that this lady who has always struggled to walk, lift her arm, comb her hair; with almost incomprehensible speech and other disabilities could attract the attention of an able-bodied man to the point where he had considered divorcing his wife and marrying her. </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
I’ve been thinking about our encounter and on reflecting on my behaviour, I realised that I was displaying the same attitudes I endeavour to challenge in society – unfairness and disrespect towards vulnerable and disabled people. In effect I saw Ms D as someone unable to love and be loved by a man, simply because of her extreme physical disability, totally disregarding the fact that her cognitive capacity is unaffected. What I failed to realise is that <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">l’habit ne fait pas le moine</em> – French proverb meaning the vestment does not make the monk (don’t judge a book by its cover). Had she been an able-bodied person I would not have found it funny even taking into account the fact that she is a devout Christian. I think my attitude displayed narrow-mindedness and prejudice. I disregarded the reality that at the end of the day we all crave the same things - the fact that someone looks different does not mean that they have different needs. There is an African proverb –<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> hunger is felt by a slave and hunger is felt by a king. </em>After fulfilling our basic needs everyone wants to be loved and we all have the capacity to love. Although I did not utter a word or in any way reveal my surprise, my covert reaction to the fact that Ms D had engaged in this relationship was judgemental, mistaken and dishonourable. Why wouldn’t she be a candidate for an affair? She’s a woman first and foremost! </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
In life we run the risk of wrongly judging our fellow men. We all have shortcomings, behaviours of which we are not proud lurking in our closets. We see people through spectacles coloured by our own biases birthed from our upbringing, socialisation, and acquired behaviours. We are influenced by societal norms, expectations and pressures and these, coupled with our personal choices and preferences, make us take actions not because we want to, but because we are afraid of the consequences of our inaction. We try to fit in, often at the expense of others; becoming involved in bullying and general warped behaviour which in time become our norm. </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
I remember watching a documentary on TV which explored people’s attitudes to black men wearing hoods. It emerged that a black man wearing a hood on a quiet street was perceived as more dangerous than a white man wearing the same garment. In fact the level of danger, if there is any, is exactly the same. No one is saying that we should be naive but we should be careful not to stereotype people. We are well aware of how it feels when the shoe is on the other foot - when we are subjected to jeering, rejection, oppression, sarcasm. When I was completing my MBA I elected to undertake temporary employment and was assigned to a well-reputed higher education institution in London with responsibility for developing and implementing the staff development programme. One day I was working late and as I turned a corner to enter my office I was met with the words “Have you brought our coffee?” Bear in mind that I was dressed in corporate attire and had documents in hand. A secretary had been expecting refreshments to service a meeting in the office located next to mine. I did not respond but continued to my office and opened the door with my key. She was very apologetic when she realised what she had done. On this occasion she had requested coffee but it could easily have been: “Have you brought the mop?” I had no intention of applying for a permanent job at that institution and after that incident I couldn’t wait to complete my degree and leave. This happened some 20 years ago but I have not forgotten it - there is a Jamaican saying “<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">it’s not the person who poops in the pathway who remembers it, rather it’s the person who steps into it</em>”. The secretary might not have intended to offend; she was simply unaccustomed to seeing black people fulfilling such roles at the Institute. <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity. </em>(Hanlon’s razor). This was her norm and she was a victim of her own bigotry.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Last week I went to the local market where I saw some sweet potato that were comparatively expensive but looked much better than the others. I bought some to make a pudding. When I started to peel them I was shocked to find that the inside layer of every potato was 70% decayed. It was disappointing; I couldn’t imagine that those beautiful potatoes were so unfit for purpose. Needless to say, I had to abandon my desire for sweet potato pudding and make a coconut cake instead. Some of us are like those potatoes, beautiful on the outside but ugly on the inside - <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">buy meat you get bone, buy land you get stone</em> (Jamaican proverb); there’s really no perfection in life.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
As business people, we have to be careful of judging people based on our personal values and expectations. We should not deny people opportunities because on the exterior they do not portray the image we perceive as ideal. We have to be careful of giving preferential treatment to those who resemble us most. Consider, are you fair in your treatment of people or are you swayed by their physical attributes? </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
We have to develop behaviours that empower and cultivate attitudes that enable us to take the high road and avoid the temptation to be biased. Failing that we risk extending that bias into areas such as race, sexual orientation, religion, disability, etc. If we are to excel in contemporary business our organisations need people from a broad cross-section of society, not just from our inner circles of like-minded people. Organisations that promote closed-minded cultures will not withstand the test of time in cosmopolitan, multiethnic cities. There is no surprise that the Institute I referred to above was struggling with recruiting people from non-white communities; they held several meetings to generate ideas for diversifying the profile of their student body. We are all richer when we embrace and learn from one another because apart from the few individuals who wish to destroy humanity, at the end of the day we all want the same things. <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Man sleeps in a fowl’s nest but fowl nest is not his bed</em> (Jamaican proverb which reminds us that people find solutions to their problems but that does not mean that they do not have higher aspirations.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
I am developing the Pocket Learner educational system which supports individuals who struggle with learning. Sometimes we look at people and we judge them based on what we think we see, not recognising that each person has aspirations and needs similar to ours. As clued up as I am, I still found myself judging Ms D based on her disabilities. I am not sure if this can be attributed to normal human behaviour but it is ugly, very ugly. <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">We should not judge people by their peak of excellence; but by the distance they have travelled from the point where they started. (H</em><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">enry Ward Beecher).</em></div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Judging says more about us than about those being judged. Never judge a book by its cover!</div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-48126155390350473412016-05-27T12:21:00.000+01:002016-05-27T12:21:01.466+01:00When Silence Isn't Golden<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">Last week a lady called Rosalinda contacted
our office seeking to have a translation done. She emailed the document to us;
we acknowledged her request and sent her our procedures. Shortly
afterwards we received a telephone call from Mrs B - Rosalinda’s boss, a
solicitor. She later sent us an email outlining her concerns –
words to the effect that she did not agree with a particular condition in the
procedures her client had received. Essentially she wanted us to waive
our request for a 50% deposit before the work began. She added that she
would be paying for the translation and would commit to paying the full amount
upon receipt of the completed document.</span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">When I saw her communication I was
somewhat taken aback. I noted she had taken the time to let us know that
she works for a large well-known, reputable firm which over time had engaged
the services of many translators and they had never been asked for a
deposit. She also made it clear that she was a person of integrity and
her word would be her honour. </span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">I am thankful for most things in life
and on this occasion I was especially grateful for the training and years of
experience I have had in diplomatic service. I was well aware that I
could not document what I actually thought but I knew that I had to balance
diplomacy with education. There is a Jamaican proverb that says: <i>It
is not everything that is good to eat that is good to talk. </i> Some
things are better left unsaid but somehow I needed to enter her world and take
her into mine. I acknowledged her email and explained that we were not prepared
to change our procedures. I suggested to her that this was an instance
when she may be better off accessing her bank of translators who are willing to
work in accordance with her requirements. To my surprise I received a prompt
response in a totally different tone - she understood why we had to operate in
that manner and she would advise her client accordingly. In 10 minutes
Rosalinda accepted our procedures and made the 50% deposit we had
requested. We processed the document; she settled the remainder and it
was dispatched to her as agreed. She later acknowledged receipt and
expressed gratitude for and satisfaction with the service.</span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">So what was all the fuss about?
I have for some time come to the realisation that if you do not stand up for
something people will take you down for nothing. I have seen people who
sacrifice their souls “for a peaceful life” or for fear of being regarded as
aggressive. Sometimes we have to say NO and not let desperation, fear or
other factors rob us of our objectivity. We should say “Yes” when we are
in accord and “No” when we mean no. William Shakespeare, in <i>Henry
IV</i>, said: <i>Tell the truth and shame the devil.</i> The
aim should not be to hurt the feelings of others but we should not keep quiet
just because it’s easier. We need to establish boundaries which allow us
to maintain a clear conscience, knowing that we did what we thought was right,
not what was comfortable. Equally, we need to choose our battles so that
we do not find ourselves caught up in unnecessary strife which will adversely
impact on our quality of life. There are moments when it’s better to let
go, for the struggle is not worth the reward.</span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Negotiation is a viable approach in
many cases. Considering the scenario above, it could be that Mrs B is
accustomed to getting her own way. She may genuinely have believed that
she was entitled to what she demanded based on her past “successes”. What
she requested was not impossible in theory – we do have clients with whom we operate
a 30-day payment term. However, those
are longstanding clients who have an account with us. This was our first encounter with Rosalinda and
with Mrs B. Negotiation entails
listening to others and finding win-win solutions. It requires two-way
communication and giving and taking of feedback but ultimately you have to
decide the outcome that is acceptable to you and whether the end justifies the
means. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">We do not live our lives in a
straight line; there are bends and crosses that we have to navigate in order to
come out on the other side. I wanted Mrs B and her client to take their
troubles and go away but they opted to remain and we were able to work together
and achieve a positive outcome for all parties. There is a Spanish
proverb: </span><i>De cuerdo y loco todos tenemos un poco </i>-<span style="color: #222222;"> <i>All of us
have a little sanity as well as a little craziness within</i>. We
sometimes have to look beyond the weaknesses and find in the person the
characteristic we need in order to make progress. Being able to work with
individuals we don’t like is a skill. It demands goal setting, objective
thinking, focus, and a high dose of professionalism which will enable us to
keep our eye on the goal while we traverse the challenges we may have to encounter. </span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">Being assertive does not hurt your
character; rather, it upholds your integrity. I remember in my early
working life I was appointed to provide secretarial support to several senior
personnel. I was often at loggerheads with them because over a period of
time they had grown accustomed to treating their subordinates without much
respect. I did not set out to be a controversial junior officer but I
felt compelled to fight my corner for the values I deemed important. In
the end I sustained far more meaningful relationships with my bosses and I felt
a lot more respected than many of my peers who adopted a code of silence.
I realised then that people cannot ill-treat you without your consent. To this
day some of my former colleagues are bitter about missed opportunities for
further/higher education and promotion because they allowed themselves to be
bullied by their then bosses.</span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">How do we as business people
demonstrate assertiveness? As business owners we have to check facts and
listen to our gut when we are presented with business proposals, opportunities
to work in partnership, requests for character references, among others.
We have to take into account a number of variables including reputation,
business activities, track record, objectives, etc and be careful not to
sacrifice our values for potential profits. If your company is
strategically positioned and has a good reputation there will be no shortage of
entities seeking to establish commercial relationships for ‘mutually
beneficial’ outcomes. While it is great to build alliances, bear in mind
that <i>not everything is glitters is gold</i>. Sometimes we have to
say NO.</span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">Listening is a very important life
skill, an art that many people cannot seem to grasp. Last week I attended
a business show in London’s Excel centre. I met an exhibitor who was promoting
her CRM software and having seen my visitors’ card which revealed my position
in a training institution she seized her opportunity, explaining how and why
her software would be perfect for my company. I explained that the system
would not be a strategic fit for my company model but she would not listen; she
had already made up her mind that hers was the ultimate programme </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;">that would enhance
the operations of my organisation. She proceeded to outline hypothetical
scenarios of how the system would enhance my business – totally out of sync
with our operations. Her insistence bordered on aggression - totally
unproductive, desperate behaviour. According to the French, <i>Il n’y a
pas plus sourd que celui qui ne veut pas entendre</i> – No one is as
deaf as the one who does not want to listen (<i>there are none so blind as
those who will not see).</i></span><span style="color: #222222;"> I simply allowed her to rant
and rave then I said thank you and moved on. I did not think it was worth
my expending further energy on this occasion as the outcome was already clear
to me.</span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As it relates to our personnel we
should allow them to have an opinion and avoid cultivating oppressive cultures
that hinder open, two-way communication. We may not like what we hear but
we should not feel threatened by the truth. As managers we have to
be candid in our communication with our staff and be emotionally
intelligent. We need to be self-aware, be able to manage our emotions, be
motivated, show empathy and develop social skills. This includes active
listening and responding accordingly, whether we are in agreement or not,
bearing in mind that we do not all share the same starting point and our values
do differ. We then follow up with positive feedback and reflective thinking,
recognising that we too consistently learn.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">As effective managers we assume and
accept responsibility, recognise and accept our mistakes and apologise when
necessary. We delegate responsibility and empower people, giving them enough
autonomy to perform in their roles. At times we may have to allow our
employees to make mistakes ensuring that an appropriate mechanism is in place
for learning to be consolidated. We implement fair procedures and are not afraid
to pursue a necessary course of action because it is more comfortable to do so.
We have to be assertive, not aggressive.</span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">Contemporary organisations,
especially those based in cosmopolitan cities are melting pots of cultures and
we are charged with driving productivity in this challenging environment.
We need to ensure that we build learning organisations which offer a range of
developmental opportunities across our organisations and which allow our people
to be assertive. </span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">In business silence is not golden.</span><span style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-85357171488984879422016-02-05T23:24:00.002+00:002016-02-05T23:24:46.038+00:00Horses for Courses<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Last week I took my little girl Shari to gymnastics. We’d been attending weekly for the last 4 weeks and for the most part she has refused to follow the instructions. Shari has special educational needs so her communication skills are not at the level of her peers. However, she has a wide vocabulary and does understand the instructions. It was quite frustrating to watch the trainer - Marie struggle to get her to do the most basic tasks. Marie offered to seek advice from her manager – a senior gymnastics trainer who specialises in working with children with additional needs, preparing them to participate at the national and international levels.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
This week we attended the session and Marie produced feedback based on her conversation with her supervisor. She had been advised that she should terminate the session the moment the child starts to misbehave. She said she was surprised and disappointed at the advice given; she really did not feel that it was the appropriate step to take. We both recognised that based on that advice the session could be concluded after just 5 minutes. Marie suggested that I joined in the one-to-one session with Shari and see what happens. I agreed and tried it and what a difference that made! She was like a different child... jumping, climbing and lunging about like a pro. </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
It is important to respect qualifications and experience but often we have the answers if only we trust our gut. The experts do not always know better. There is a Jamaican proverb that says: the wisest man is sometimes a fool - <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">no one has it all together all the time</em>. When we apply a broadbrush approach to life we run the risk of denying people opportunities, damaging their self esteem and confidence, and the process becomes totally unproductive. </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
At ACT - our training company in London we tailor our training programmes, working with individuals, enabling them to be accountable for their personal development. Sometimes we apply additional incentives and in some cases they are not needed. Many of our trainees arrive with broken spirits, being unable to find work despite consistently applying, and tired of what they see as Job Centre harassment. They are not always lazy people – they have hopes and dreams, goals and aspiration like anyone else. All they need is for someone to listen, to believe in them, help them identify their strengths and carve out an appropriate path. Progress is primarily mental, not physical. Once a person has the right mindset and attitude they can make progress. </div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
As service organisations we need to understand that everyone will not fit into our little boxes. There are different routes to a destination; indeed there are various types of destinations – not everyone will end up at the same place; the key is to ensure that the chosen route is an interesting and engaging one. Over the years we have encouraged thousands of people to aspire higher. We enabled them to access sustainable employment opportunities even when they were unable to read and write English well. We do that by ensuring that the people we hire to help us have the appropriate soft skills along with the required technical competence to support our trainees. Further, we ensure that our values are shared and that our culture is appropriate to the business we are operating. When that happens success is guaranteed and your marketing budget can be halved.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
We should never assume that because someone does not take the route to which we are accustomed their value is to be discounted. Several years ago I was seeking membership of a prestigious translators and interpreters institute . I had trained for years as a professional Interpreter and Translator in Mexico City and later pursued university studies in Spanish and French, gaining a Masters degree with honours. When I applied to the institute I was flatly refused; the requirements stated that I had to qualify from a UK institution in order to become a member. Whatever qualifications I held did not count. I refused to enroll on a local course and as membership of the institute was important for my career I decided to fight for the right to be a member. In the end they tested me rigorously and as I passed all the tests they no longer had any credible basis on which to continue to refuse the application. I am now a senior member and am often invited to co-host their training webinars for new members. Sometimes we have to fight for what we know we deserve.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Marie is very passionate and skilled in her craft but she lacked self belief and drive. It took an irrational decision from her manager to stimulate her self esteem and restore that drive. Now she knows she is good enough. Not only did she find a workable solution but more importantly she discovered a technique that gave a little girl a chance to dance. She may not hold a degree in gymnastics and she may not have vast experience but she has talent and passion for her chosen field. Too often we think that others are better than we are because they say so, appear so, or because they have papers to show. Unfortunately academia cannot teach common sense and whatever instruments society may drum up, it cannot be replaced.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Maria has found a marketable solution to a common problem. This can open doors for her to work with other children who are similarly challenged. Indeed there is a long waiting list; I’d be the first to give her a recommendation. There is always an opportunity lurking; too many of us get so stuck on problem-solving, we fail to appreciate the prospects begging to be explored.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
As business owners and managers we should ask ourselves, are we flexible enough in our approach to managing people? Do we recognise that they are individuals with unique dispositions, needs and styles? Do we give them space to explore and be creative? There is a saying: When Jackass smells corn it gallops -<em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">treat people well and they will come through for you</em>. These are not the days of the well-oiled machine; we need people not only with a pair of hands but with a brain too. There is consistent change, the workplace is in constant flux; there is always something new to learn. We cannot assume that our way is the only way. <em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The road to hell is paved with good intentions</em> - while you may think you are protecting your staff by dictating their every move; consider that you may be stifling their creativity.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #232629; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
There are different courses for different horses.</div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-75285636260746029692016-01-11T17:16:00.000+00:002016-01-11T17:16:25.538+00:00If it’s not dead don’t throw it away<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 9.5pt;">When we started our training
organisation 10 years ago we had a student - Paul who had been referred to us
by the local Job Centre for mandatory employability skills training. He
was reluctant to attend but he knew that his welfare payments would be severed
if he failed to show. Paul was in his forties and had spent 25 years in
prison. It was clear that he was convinced that no one could help him and
he had a seriously negative attitude. He had no work history but we helped him
to develop a CV and slowly he started to trust the staff. It was immediately
apparent that he was very intelligent and had a lot to offer. He
completed the three-month programme and although he did not find work at the
end of it, his attitude and self-belief significantly improved. Four years
later I bumped into Paul in the local area and he was a changed man. He
gloated that he was working in a pharmacy and was pursuing studies in Pharmacy.
He expressed his gratitude for the help we had provided and indicated that he
was now looking forward to completing his studies and progressing in the
workplace.</span></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">What does it take for someone
to change their life and to embark on a different course? Often it begins
with someone believing in them and encouraging them. We showed Paul
unconditional love – not judging him or treating him differently because of his
checkered past. To this day we do not know what crime he committed because we
did not focus on that. What we saw was an individual who needed help, even if
he did not know or acknowledge it at the time. We recognised his value and
helped him to appreciate that value. We allowed him to be, tailoring a
programme that allowed him the flexibility he needed to make the
transition. When he fell short we avoided punitive measures prescribed by
others. We recognised where he was in his life and we adapted our
procedures to suit. In life things are not always how we want them to be
or how they should be. Sometimes 60% is enough for if insist on
perfection we risk losing the whole.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">We do not choose our lives – our
life chooses us. We are born into families, cultures, communities – we
didn’t choose. Some of us are born with medical conditions – we didn’t
choose. A few months ago I received a third international award for the
Pocket Learner – an educational development system that enables parents,
carers, teachers and others to educate children, particularly those deemed slow
learners or those diagnosed with special educational needs. The Pocket
Learner arose from frustration with my daughter’s lack of progress at
school. She has special needs and I was not convinced that the school was
adequately providing for her educational development. I embarked on a programme
at home helping her to build her vocabulary and learn to read. I was
shocked to see how well she responded! Now my life is dedicated to
helping her thrive and at the same time building a system whereby others with
circumstances similar to hers can be empowered. I did not choose my life;
it chose me.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">Recently I had the opportunity
to visit the Spanish island of Lanzarote. I recall the tour guide saying
that the island was built on volcanic ash from eruptions which took place over
a number of years during the 1730s. The resort still encounters constant drying
winds and to combat this they have taken measures to protect their flora
including the building of curved walls to protect their grape vines. With
its expanse of white buildings set against the black soil and creative
protective agricultural infrastructure Lanzarote is one of the most beautiful
places I have seen. Life thrives even in volcanic ash.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">Sometimes we are faced with
situations which we think have come to destroy us. We automatically
regard them as setbacks when indeed they are setups. They are there to
strengthen us, build our resilience and prepare us to impact. It’s only after
those moments when we crash and burn that we can rise from the ashes.
Those are the moments that we learn the most from; the ones that give us
experience that we can use to teach others and save them from unnecessary
pain. The pressures of life often squeeze us but just like a tube that
produces more when it is put under pressure, so we too are forced to produce
when pressure is applied – it is not there to kill us but rather to bring out
the best in us.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">Had we given up on Paul all
those years ago he might not now be looking forward to a career in Pharmacy. He
had been scarred but he still had life and thus hope. Had I buried myself
in self-pity and fail to recognise that my daughter could be helped the Pocket
Learner would not have evolved. Had the authorities decided to abandon
Lanzarote, the island would not have become such a wonderful destination for
people like me who seek a getaway from time to time. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>If it’s not dead don’t throw it away -
<i>Behind every dark cloud there is a silver lining.</i> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">As business owners we often find
ourselves on the brink, tempted to throw in the towel. We are hit by
internal and external factors that impact adversely on our organisations. A
few years ago we experienced a recession and many of us despaired, indeed many
did not survive. Those who survived had to dig deeper, become more
creative, productive, strategic, resilient. Our organisations were not
dead so we did not “throw them away”. Our character grows when we are
challenged. When no one or nothing is challenging us we can become
complacent and just saunter along, finding comfort in mediocrity. We have
to develop mindsets that see problems as opportunities, questions as
invitations. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>We have to
be the change we want to see in the world</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(Mahatma
Gandhi); not <i>go with the flow</i> but
direct the flow. Those of us in positions of influence should take the opportunity
to teach and consistently learn. It is through learning that we are able to
teach, through aspiration that we are able to inspire; through giving that we
are able to receive. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="background: white; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">We should not be afraid to make
mistakes for everyone who is successful has experienced failure. We
should treat them as mere bumps in the road, growth indicators, lessons of
life. When we get off the fence we may trip, fall and even bleed but in
the process we build value and even if we fail to achieve our ultimate goals we
build our capacity to contribute to humanity by sharing our experiences,
passing on valuable and perhaps invaluable information. Every one of us
has something to offer; some may have 1 talent, others - 5 and some may even
have 10. It’s not the number of skills we have that matters; rather, it’s
what we do with them. Where we start doesn’t matter, what counts is where
we end up and the distance travelled. Never give up on anyone; indeed
don’t give up on yourself and if it’s not dead don’t throw it away. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-15447204790301837982015-10-05T16:21:00.001+01:002015-10-05T16:39:21.453+01:00The heights by great men reached and kept... Lessons from the Rugby World Cup<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h1 class="article-title" itemprop="headline" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 28px; font-stretch: inherit; font-weight: 400; line-height: 36px; margin: 0px 0px 8px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></h1>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The 2015 Rugby World Cup is underway in England. It is wonderful to see sportsmen at their best, chasing a prize that would demonstrate their superior specialist skills and bring pride to their nations. As I watched the various matches, I realised that Rugby, and indeed other team games, offer important lessons, if only we take time to examine the principles:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></span>
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">i) Goal setting</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">– </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The ultimate aim of a rugby team is to score more goals than the
opponent and in so doing earn the coveted crown. In life too we have to
set goals and take steps to achieve them. When we go with the flow, life
just floats along and as we have no set destination we end up some place some day,
doing something with someone. Though we may have to change the goalposts
from time to time it is important to set goals to help us chart our paths to
our desired objective.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">ii) Targeting</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">– In order to win a game a team needs to hit the target. Team
members are aware of the target and they know that there are obstacles in the
way. They keep their eyes and minds on the target, never losing sight of
it. We too should have targets. What are you aiming for? Do you know
what you want, why you want it and how you will know when you have achieved
it? What would happen if you don’t hit your target; more importantly,
what would happen if you do? Many of us have learnt to handle failure but
struggle with success. We can’t afford to hit our target only to have it slip
from our hands, for we weren't prepared for it.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">iii) Drive</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – Irrespective of a team’s position in the league tables, they
must have drive. There is no shortage of takers for the position if a
highly-placed team loses momentum and its performance slips. Complacency
has no place in Rugby League or indeed in Rugby Union. In life too we must
maintain our drive. It is normal for one to tire or to lose interest but
it is not how many times we fall, but the number of times we get up and get
going again. If you are serious about achieving a goal you have to keep
up the momentum. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if necessary; often the
end is imminent though we may not be able to see it. </span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">iv) Teamwork</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">– Rugby is a team game; no one individual on his own can make a team
successful. A group of people come together to train, plan and execute;
sometimes they win and sometimes they lose. A successful goal and
resulting win is celebrated by all, not just by the individual who was lucky
enough to score. In the wider society we have to adopt an attitude of
cooperation. This is not a new concept - countries form economic blocs,
corporations merge or form strategic alliances in order to increase their
market share, individuals form partnerships and capitalize on each other’s
strengths to access bigger contracts. “<i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">No man is an island</span></i>”.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">v) Forgiveness</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">– Individuals within a team at times make mistakes that may lead to the
awarding of a penalty to the competitor; needless to say, the resulting goal
sometimes makes the difference between winning and losing. The team has
to put the error behind them, acknowledge their loss as a team and not focus on
the individual who made the mistake. We too have to forgive and not allow
ill feelings to fester. We have to look for the good in the person and
not dwell on the offence. Forgiveness liberates; it is not about the
other person being let off the hook, for that person will have to live with the
consequences of his actions, forgiven or not.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">vi) Celebration of small successes</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">- When a rugby game is in progress each goal is celebrated, even if
there are 80 minutes left to play. Although the game is not over, the
players, their management team and indeed their fans celebrate the successes
along the way. Too often we think that we have to conquer the entire
mountain before we are entitled to celebrate. Don’t be pessimistic!
Celebrate the small steps, for the big achievements are made up of smaller
(often invisible), consistent actions. Life is also about the journey,
not just the destination.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">vii) Time management</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – Rugby players have to turn up at pre-determined times for their
practice sessions and they have to commit an agreed amount of time to
practising. Time is a very important factor on the field – matches start
at set times and players are expected to play for 80 minutes and extra time if
necessary. Time is a great resource – not one to be
wasted. There are many factors in today’s society that can waste our time
if not managed effectively – emails, text, telephone calls, attendance at
events, social visits, meetings, traffic etc. We have to identify the
time wasters in our lives and manage them. </span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">viii) Commitment and dedication</span></b> –
Rugby players generally earn significant sums and although they have not been
in the news as much as footballers for example, there is no doubt that there
are many who feel that they earn too much in comparison with other
professionals. What is often ignored is the level of commitment and
dedication that they put into their preparation. They have to be out of
their beds at unsociable hours in wind, rain and sun in order to train with the
team. We too have to be committed and dedicated to whichever endeavour we
undertake. We cannot run away when the going gets rough or when we <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">cannot see the wood for the trees</span></i>. We have to
develop staying power; if we believe in what we do we’ll stay and see it
through. Aim for sustainability and longevity; if your venture eventually
fails, at least you can say that you gave it a fair shot. Learn your
lessons, move on and try not to repeat your mistakes.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">ix) Staying calm under pressure</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">- This characteristic is shown particularly when players are taking
penalties. There is tremendous pressure and the result of their effort may
not reflect their level of skill. There are many elements in life that
put us under pressure – economics, politics, technology; environmental, social
as well as personal matters, for example. Our ability to remain calm
reduces our stress level and strengthens our coping mechanism. There will
always be hills and valleys in our path but we have to look beyond the
immediate and recognise that there is always a way, even when we cannot see the
way. Bear in mind that if we fail today “<i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">tomorrow is another day</span></i>.”
The quickest distance between two points is not necessarily via a straight
line. There is a fitting Jamaican proverb: <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">Shortcut draws blood, long road draws sweat </span></i>– we
have a choice.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">x) Resilience</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">– I have never seen a rugby game where all the players remain on their
feet. Invariably they fall over and over and although they may hurt, they
keep going. In life we will be hurt sometimes, knocked over - even
trampled, we may be broken and we may bleed but once there’s life, there’s
hope. Get up and bounce back! You owe it to yourself.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xi) Physical exercise and keeping fit</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">– Rugby plays have to be fit; they constantly exercise in order to be
able to outmanoeuvre and outlast the competition. While some of us will
be overweight, what is important is that we endeavour to keep ourselves healthy
to the best of our ability so that we give ourselves the best chance of
achieving our goals. Keeping fit includes avoiding excesses that harm our
bodies and make us unfit to achieve our purpose. It includes getting
enough sleep and feeding our mind, body and spirit.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xii) Passion </span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">- Those who play rugby are not only drawn to the high wages and fame –
they generally have significant passion for the game. This is what makes
them get out of bed consistently; it keeps them going even after they have made
their millions. They are doing what they love to do and it may not even
feel like work. We too must find the source of our passion. If we
enjoy our work we are more likely to turn up in the rain, wind and snow.
We will be motivated and we will want to do it well. Passion gives us
staying power – makes us tough <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">when the going gets rough</span></i>.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xiii) Regard for family</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – After a tournament players can often be seen relaxing in exotic
places with their significant other. Good sportsmen spend time with their
families; returning to basics for a dose of reality from time to time.
They balance work life with family life, ensuring that neither suffers. Too
many families fall apart because individuals within the family fail to make time
for others. They are caught up in their own careers and they think that
being able to shower their family with money and expensive gifts can replace
quality time. Ultimately their personal lives get into trouble initiating
a vicious cycle as their professional lives start to suffer. Life is about
balance – achieve the right balance and your happiness and success will be
enhanced.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xiv) Strategy</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – Even if like me you don’t know much about rugby, you are likely
to be able to recognise effective strategies on the field when you see
it. The game follows key principles and formations i.e. strategies that
the team would have prepared. There is a saying that goes “<i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">if you fail to plan, you plan to fail</span></i>”. If you
fail to plan a strategy to achieve your goals they will just remain there and
become dreams, or may even turn into nightmares. If you just go with the
flow chances are you will wash up anywhere. While that may work for some
people most of us have to put strategies into place in order to survive and
thrive. </span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xv) Flexibility</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">– Although the team would have planned a particular strategy with their
manager, they often have to change, based on the actions of their
opponents. We often see managers replacing players or we may see a change
in strategy after half time. Players have to play in varying climatic
conditions – they have to adapt. In life we too have to be
flexible. Having a strategy is essential but as we do not exist in a
vacuum we must bear in mind that the external environment will impact and we
may have to change our strategy; we have to be aware of and responsive to the
actions of other people.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xvi) Positive thinking</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – Rugby players believe they can win every time. The moment
they consider defeat is the moment they are defeated. They have to
believe in themselves and their ability to conquer the opposition, thus
satisfying their fans and safeguarding their status. Every change begins in the
mind. Your thoughts lead to your actions and consistent actions become
habits. If you don’t develop a habit of believing in yourself it will be
difficult to conquer your mountains, indeed your molehills will start to
resemble mountains. Once you are realistic in your aspirations there is
no reason for you to doubt yourself; just use positive affirmations and
consider that if it doesn’t work out, <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">this too shall pass</span></i>.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xvii) Perseverance</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – Rugby players have to keep going. No doubt they tire
tremendously after 80 minutes of consistent running, however they block out the
pain as far as is possible, keeping at the forefront of their minds the goal
they are pursuing. Many of us tire quickly, we have very little staying power
and when the going gets rough we retire our projects and move on to something else.
“<i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">Rolling stones gather no moss.” </span></i>The next
project will not necessarily be easier and we may find that <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">the grass is not greener on the other side</span></i>. Stick
with it - take your project to completion.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xviii) Instinct </span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">– Irrespective of the level of the coaching and instructions given to
players, when they are on the field they are masters of their own
destiny. They have to weigh the consequences of their actions against the
risk of a goal being scored. At that moment intellect is good but instinct
is better. We too have to be in tune with our intuition and know when to take
actions that will impact our situations. Our mentors have no access to
our gut feelings; we have to be true to ourselves and acknowledge that instinct
is an innate quality that aids our decision-making.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xix) Self-control</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – Rugby players may get into tussles on the field if they feel
they have been disrespected or if their egos have been bruised. However,
for the most part they do exercise self-control. One could argue that
their restraint is attributed to the power of the referee’s yellow cards which
will see the player forced to leave the pitch for 10 minutes while the game
plays on. This man down could have disastrous consequences for a team. Self-control
is a key factor in emotional intelligence - one which enables us to exercise
tolerance, understanding, forgiveness and patience. If we allow others to
make us angry and we lose control we give away our power. If we don’t
control our emotions we lose opportunities and close doors that could lead to
good places – indeed we harm our chances in life.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xx) Respect</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">– Rugby players must show respect for authority. They will tell
you how much they wanted to be in the starting line-up for games but their
managers had other ideas. They may be substituted on the pitch and they
have no choice but to respect their manager’s decisions. Respect for self
and others are key ingredients in personal and professional growth.
Movers and shakers do not like disrespectful people and will not go the extra mile
to help even when it costs them nothing. The Jamaican proverb: “<i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">Manners takes you through the world</span></i>” conveys this well.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xxi) Professionalism</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – It must be very painful to lose a game, especially the ones that
are deemed important in league tables or which are played on the international
stage. Despite any disappointment or aversion players shake the hands of
their opponents and they often cheer them at the end. Even when they are
suffering an embarrassing defeat they don’t abandon the game. Whatever we
do we should ensure that we adopt a professional approach. It is
tantamount to integrity and these are the factors that make us look good and
add value to our repertoire. Pain is found in every walk of life and
although we have the right to hurt, we do not have the right to remain
wounded. As the saying goes: “<i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">Today for you, tomorrow for me</span></i>”.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xxii) Discipline</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – Despite what people may think rugby players are generally highly
self-disciplined. They have to be careful about what they consume, they
have to refrain from certain vices and they have to ensure that they have
sufficient rest in order to keep themselves fit for the team. In life we must
maintain discipline if we are to co-exist peacefully. At the very least
we have to be tolerant, respect diversity, obey the law and pay taxes. No
one wants to live in a lawless society where our security is compromised
because people simply disrespect authority, disobey rules and ignore
responsibility.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xxiii) Fearlessness</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – Watching a penalty shootout is a very tense moment even for
those who do not play the game. Imagine therefore the fear that the
penalty taker must feel, aware of the responsibility on his shoulders.
If left unmanaged fear stifles creativity; it stops us from taking risks
that could propel us forward and it curtails our drive. It is a
natural phenomenon that we all experience but we have to develop strategies to
control it. <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">Feel the fear and do it anyway</span></i> (Susan
Jeffers).</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xxiv) Money</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">making </span></b>– Rugby players earn big money. They
found their purpose, play with passion and earn well from their chosen a
career. They do not waste time in roles that do not pay well and if they
are not playing well they are replaced. We too must find worthwhile
opportunities and ensure we are making good use of our time. While it is
fine to be in entry level jobs for a while, the onus is on us to grow
professionally so that we can meet our needs and be a blessing to others in due
season.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xxv) Work hard, play hard</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – We have already established that rugby players work hard.
They play hard too. It is not unusual to see photographs of them in the
press enjoying themselves in some faraway place with their mates or loved
ones. In our aspiration to acquire the finer things in life we often
forget to have fun. We end up taking work home, working overtime, just to
make a few extra bucks to <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">save for a rainy day</span></i>.
Unfortunately by the time we get around to enjoying our savings many of us find
ourselves alone, are ill or may even be dead. “<i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">All work
and no play makes Jack a dull boy.</span></i>”</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xxvi) Patience</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – There are often debates about whether a manager should be fired
after an unsuccessful run or if such a manager should be allowed to complete
their intended contractual tenure. Often it takes a while for success to
come; the board, players and fans alike have to exercise patience and allow the
team to gel under the manager’s leadership. <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">Patience is a virtue</span></i>; too often we give up early
because we don’t immediately see the results we are hoping for. There is
a Jamaican saying that explains this phenomenon: <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">the darkest part of night is when day soon light</span></i>”.
There will be difficult moments but with patience and hard work we will <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">see the light at the end of the tunnel</span></i>.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xxvii) Gratitude</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – Many rugby players, indeed many sportsmen will tell you that one
of their greatest joys was the fact that they were able to purchase property
for their parents. Many will have assisted their friends and family to
set up business, settle debts or purchase items beyond their reach. We
too must not forget our roots; we must reach out to those who helped us in our
formative years and those who may have struggled with us before we achieved
success. There is a famous quote that says: <i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;">be careful how you treat people on your way up because you might
meet them again on your way down</span></i>.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xxviii) Generosity </span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">– From time to time we hear of sportsmen who have donated money and
resources to individuals. It could be as simple as purchasing drinks for
everyone at a venue or leaving a handsome tip at a restaurant. They
generally do not count their pennies; they focus instead on bringing in the
pounds. In life we too must be generous with our resources. It
doesn't have to be financial help – giving of our time, effort, know-how,
physical resources, among others is just as good. For those of us who do
business we must ensure that we negotiate win/win contracts so that all parties
feel valued. There is no need to attach getting to our giving; indeed
giving is the seed to your getting.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xxix) Philanthropy</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – Right across the world there are projects that are set up and/or
funded by sportsmen. Altruism goes beyond one’s immediate social group
and extends out to humanity, perhaps building a school, funding a charity,
purchasing equipment for a hospital, developing a sport facility within a
community. Human beings must seek to leave a legacy, however small, not
only to our family but to the world. We are bound to support our own
children but how many of us help other people’s children? We may not be able to
help everyone but surely we can help someone.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">xxx) Hard work brings true joy</span></b><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> – As we watch the various teams go for glory, one cannot help but
cheer, irrespective of our allegiance. When you listen to their stories
and see how far they’ve come you recognise how deserving of their place they
are. They believe in themselves, work well as a team, remain calm under
pressure, exercise patience, perseverance, professionalism and discipline;
conquer their fear, plan their strategy and execute their plans. At the
end of the tournament they can be proud of representing their countries,
regardless of the outcome.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #232629; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Every corner of our life is packed
with lessons to be learnt and shared. These are some that rugby players,
and indeed other professional sportsmen can teach us. Let us explore
these factors in our lives and start to build a legacy.</span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; padding: 0cm;">The heights by great men reached and
kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions
slept, were toiling upward in the night</span></i><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">.
(Henry Wadsworth Longfellow).</span></span><span style="color: #232629; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-79070526977899975612015-06-30T22:24:00.001+01:002015-06-30T22:24:19.846+01:00One-eyed man is king in a blind man’s country<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 15.05pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today I was
conversing with Audrey - a fellow parent of a child with autism. We had
both been attending a social event with our children and were discussing the
challenges we face with the education of our children. I had on a
previous occasion told Audrey about the Pocket Learner system I developed to
enable my daughter Shari to build her communication skills and learn to
read. On this occasion I took the opportunity to demonstrate the
system to her with the help of my little girl. I took out one of the
cards and asked Shari to read it. She promptly responded “plum” showing
that she could indeed identify the word. When Audrey observed
this she retorted that the system was too advanced for her daughter who at
the age of seven is within Shari’s peer group. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 15.05pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 15.05pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I find it quite
peculiar that Audrey instantly determined that her little girl could not learn
using the system after seeing another child excel. Instead of
seeing Shari’s performance as proof that the system works she instantly closed
her mind to it and in so doing denied her daughter the opportunity to test a
programme that might well empower her even in some small way.
American writer<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><em style="box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0cm;">Richard Bach</span></em><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>said
"Argue for your limitations and, sure enough, they're yours." <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 15.05pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 15.05pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 18.8pt; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When we started
teaching Shari we did not know that it would work and that she would react
so positively and so quickly. That was three years ago and today she has
a wide vocabulary and is able to read several hundred words despite her
multiple learning difficulties diagnosis. It was not an overnight change;
it required consistency, patience and dedication. Audrey’s daughter
currently has no speech but the system enhances communication which is not
necessarily verbal. It is unfortunate that the child will not be able to
experience this tried and tested system which could enable her to embark on a
path of personal growth, because of a decision taken by her mother.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 15.05pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 18.8pt; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d;">Due to their personal
anxieties people close their own doors and in the process often close the doors
of those they love. When I was a child my parents did not support my athletic ability
because they were of the opinion that athletics did not lead anywhere. These
behaviours are often due to ignorance or fear - perhaps fear of failure or in
some strange way, fear of success. Many of us are cynical because of the
flood of offers we encounter daily – we develop st</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;">one w</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;">alls to protect
ourselves, not knowing whom to trust. Those walls may block the entry of
negative things and dodgy people but that same wall also keeps the good things
out. They also serve to restrict us in more ways than one. We
should not be afraid to try, particularly when the evidence is staring us in
the face.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 15.05pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 18.8pt; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That same attitude makes
us lack self belief and so we trust our future to others, thinking that they
are more equipped than we are. As parents it is primarily our
responsibility to educate our children – too many of us transfer that role to
others who traverse through the lives of our children for a relatively short
period. We have to work alongside established institutions to educate our
offspring for children with learning difficulties also have their contributions
to make - their talents to develop and exploit. They too have dreams and
goals to nurture and be nurtured. We should not allow fear or personal
insecurities to prevent us from enabling those for whom we care to achieve
their potential. Similarly we should not allow others to make us miss our
calling, for at the end of the day we are ultimately individually responsible
for the life we lead.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 15.05pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 18.8pt; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As life has no
guarantees, I cannot promise other parents that their children will benefit
from the Pocket Learner but I know that the system works. I am under no
illusion, I am fully aware that Shari is not at the same academic level as her
classmates but she is running her own race. We build on what we have, not
focus on our deficiencies. As a linguist, further education trainer and
performance coach I have used my skills to develop the programme but it was
Shari who made the system evolve. If her progress makes her appear like a
one-eyed man who is king in a blind man’s country, well so be it! Whether
we have one eye, two eyes or no eye at all, every one of us has within us seeds
waiting to be planted, not buried.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 15.05pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Further
information about the Pocket learner system can be accessed from our
crowdfunding campaign page (<a href="http://igg.me/at/pocketlearner/x/9989598" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;" target="_blank"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #0d0d0d; padding: 0cm; text-decoration: none;">http://igg.me/at/pocketlearner/x/9989598</span></em></a>) and on the
Pocket Learner website (http://pocketlearner.net/).<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-3304147799851656762015-06-03T22:41:00.000+01:002015-06-03T22:41:31.694+01:00Beauty from Ashes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 30px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Sometimes we receive news that change the course our lives and from one day to the next we are no longer the same. In 2006 when I learnt that my daughter would be born disabled I was shocked, hurt and scared. I didn’t know what to expect - all I could hear were people saying that life would be difficult, perhaps I wouldn’t be able to cope, the child wouldn’t be able to function effectively; I should consider my options. Shari is now 8 years old and like everyone else she has her challenges, but she is a complete and utter joy. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 30px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
This week we launched a crowdfunding campaign -<a href="http://igg.me/at/pocketlearner/x/9989598" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #96999c; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">http://igg.me/at/pocketlearner/x/9989598</em></a> - to present the Pocket Learner educational development system to the world. The Pocket Learner arose from the ashes of my frustration with Shari’s lack of academic progress. I did not accept that my little girl could not achieve more than was evident through her work at school. At home we set about working with her systematically to build her vocabulary. We began by using pictures and then we introduced written words. Before long the Pocket Learner began to take shape and now she has a wide vocabulary and is able to read several hundred words. The system has the potential to impact the lives of children across the globe. It will give hope to the many parents and carers who feel or who have been told that their children can’t learn.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 30px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Sometimes we are faced with situations which we think have come to destroy us. We automatically regard them as setbacks when indeed they are setups. They are there to strengthen us, to build our resilience and prepare us to impact. It’s only after those moments when we crash and burn that we can rise from the ashes. Those are the moments that we learn the most from; the ones that give us experience that we can use to teach others and save them from unnecessary pain. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 30px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Had I not gone through that period when all my dreams seemed to turn to ashes I would not have produced this beauty which is the Pocket Learner. Had Shari not been born disabled I wouldn’t have been inspired to develop this innovation that will empower many like her to aspire higher and achieve goals hitherto unimagined. I set out to help her find herself; it turned out that it was she who helped me to find myself. For many years I worked in industry, in diplomacy, in the public service – I have never considered the matter of disability. Now this is my mission, my life’s purpose. “What’s not dead, don’t throw away” (Jamaican adage) – never give up on anyone; indeed don’t give up on yourself. Too often we judge a book by its cover, refusing to take the time to delve beneath and find the purpose. If we dig deeper we’ll find dearer treasures – beauty from within the ashes. The pressures of life often squeeze us but just like a tube that produces when it is put under pressure, we too are forced to produce when pressure is applied – it is not there to kill us but rather to build our character.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 30px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
We have launched this crowdfunding campaign - <strong style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Pocket Learner: Reading without Boundaries</em></strong> on the Indiegogo platform to enable us to further develop the Pocket Learner and make it available to others like Shari; and for this we are seeking support. Even if your life is not touched by disability the system is a wonderful gift for any child. Further information on the system and on the campaign can be found our website: www.pocketlearner.net. Help us make that difference; help us impact the lives of those who need it most.</div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-50192448181460598502015-05-21T19:22:00.000+01:002015-05-21T19:22:15.945+01:00Not Every Skinned Teeth is a Laugh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: justify;">I<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> met with my friend ET recently who was actually
crying because he’d been cheated by an individual with whom he had transacted
business.</span></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">He explained how the woman had
appeared genuine and he had been encouraged by the prospect of working with her
in what he could see as a very profitable venture.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">Because he had felt so comfortable with her
he had given her direct access to his clients without implementing the
necessary safeguards. </span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">He explained that
she has a pleasing personality, always greeting him with a smile. </span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">It turned out that the deal was concluded in
his absence and now the woman appears to be dodging, refusing to hand over
payment.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">ET is a seasoned businessman who would be
aware of the need to pen an agreement.
When I asked him why he did not follow procedure he indicated that the
woman is a senior community figure, a mature woman who appears to be highly
regarded in the area. He had trusted her
on her word; now he was out of pocket by several thousand pounds and risked
losing face with stakeholders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I am aware that ET has been experiencing
hardships recently which might have explained his actions; but whether he acted
out of naivety, desperation or ignorance he did not deserve being taken for a
ride in this way. The obvious is not necessarily obvious; people
are not always whom they seem to be. We have to use our wisdom and listen to
our intuition as we navigate through the choppy waters in order to chart our
course. We cannot “give cheese to rat to
carry”. Some individuals do not set out
to deceive but money can change people and there is no shortage of influence
from those near and dear. But if “circumstances
make people” what place do honesty and integrity in business hold? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In order to protect our property and avoid
abuse it is important to get the balance right.
It is not about going through life being skeptical and suspicious of people. That attitude would weigh us down, take away
our energy and slow our progress. Rather
it is about separating your head from your heart, using wisdom and listening to
your gut. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When we started our training organisation
just under 10 years ago we conducted surveys among key industry personnel -
contractors whom we knew needed our services.
We asked appropriate questions and used their answers to shape our
offering. We received lots and lots of encouragement
from those people; they said if we could deliver the bespoke service they
needed they would definitely engage with us.
We believed them and set to work securing premises and equipment, and
tailoring our services in line with their request. When we actually started the programme we
noticed that they were suddenly inaccessible.
For one reason or another we could not obtain a contract and some of
them went into hiding. A key contract
manger disappeared for three months and when he returned he seemed to have been
afflicted with amnesia. We were like
strangers in the industry despite the extensive links we had forged over the
years and the massive groundwork we had undertaken. We survived the first year; it was a struggle,
all because we mistook skinned teeth for laugh.<span style="color: red; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It is normal for businesses to go through
challenging times and entrepreneurs can find themselves struggling to keep
their heads above water. During these moments
new business opportunities can appear quite tempting, even exciting. They can bring hope and like a “wolf in sheep
clothing” can be very appealing. As “a
drowning man holds on to a straw” it is not unusual to find individuals
relaxing their values, ignoring their intuition and compromising their
reputations in order to grasp what they perceive to be a lifeline. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Too often we feel compelled to entertain
business opportunities that do not fit our culture, that conflict with our
values, and which evoke niggling feelings within us. Business people in desperate situations often
take desperate measures which can ultimately be detrimental to the achievement
of their long term (and in some cases short-term) goals. There are many examples of partnerships that
go bad and an equal number that succeed.
Partnership working is wonderful when it works well for “two heads are
better than one” and “one hand cannot clap”.
But instead of running headlong into a relationship, be it business or
personal, take a moment to observe and study characters, for sooner or later
their reputation becomes yours. If you
partner with people or indeed with organisations of dubious character their reputation
will rub off on you - “show me your friend and I’ll tell you who you are”. The
Africans say “show me your friend and I will show you
your character”. The Jamaicans are more dramatic in their rendition - they
say: “If you lie with dogs you rise with
flea”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Your
character is something that is built; a prized possession that you should not
risk. According to the French: <i>Bonne renommée vaut mieux que ceinture dorée</i>. (A good name is worth more than a golden belt).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In business you really do need to assess carefully the individuals or organisations with which you choose to
partner. Don’t be afraid to say ‘no’
when it doesn’t feel right - assertion is not <span style="color: #0d0d0d;">aggression; if you have
doubts it is better to </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">err on the side of caution</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;">.</span> There may be synergies to
be obtained by partnering for after all “good friends are <span style="color: #0d0d0d;">better than pocket money”
(Jamaican proverb) and “To be without a friend is to be poor indeed”<i> </i>(Tanzanian proverb).<i> </i>Indeed these liaisons may be
mutually beneficial but you need to listen to your inner voice and ensure that
you draft an agreement. You may choose
to analyse the partnership considering factors such as: the potential benefits to both parties, a</span> weakness that the partner could help to alleviate, the skills
lacking in your organisation, competencies and contacts the partner has that
could prove advantageous to you and importantly, their reputation. Evaluate carefully
whether it could be a truly a win-win situation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> “If you stand straight, do
not fear a crooked shadow” is an old Chinese Proverb. If however, the person partnering with you
does not stand straight, you do have to fear that crooked shadow. The French gives us: <i>A l'oeuvre, on connaît l'ouvrier - </i>A carpenter is known by his chips.
What do your chips look like now and what would they look like under the
new partnership? How important is your
image to you? What are your values and
how far are you prepared to go? Looking
back I am pleased we did not partner with the organisations we were courting; 80%
of them did not survive the recession and the remaining ones are far less
powerful than they were in 2006.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There is a Chinese
proverb that says “</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Do not use an axe to remove
a fly from your friend's forehead”.
Well, if the relationship goes sour you may find yourself doing just
that; then you’ll stand to lose everything.
</span><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Not every skinned teeth is a
laugh!</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-33408586786267525932015-05-07T22:24:00.002+01:002015-05-07T22:24:57.635+01:00Once Bitten, Twice Shy!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I am currently engaged on a
project that has the potential to grow exponentially.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The more time I spend on the project, the
more the possibilities emerge and having realised the scope of the venture I
recognise that I will need some technical help in order to maximize the
opportunity.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In considering potential
partners it dawned on me that there is a close family friend who could help. However I wrestle with the idea of engaging
with him because of his reputation as a ruthless businessman. I have worked with him on occasions and have
been irritated by his business tactics.
Although he has an endearing personality he does drive a hard bargain and
he is not particularly concerned about the aftermath. Having experienced this behaviour has caused
me to struggle with my decision. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As I am not one to immediately
dismiss a potential opportunity I asked myself:
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>What would it take for me to look beyond the
past and focus on the present? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>Are there any safeguards I could put in place
which would protect me should I proceed?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>How do I know that the person(s) I eventually
chose will not be as ruthless as this man?
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">During this process I realised
that I was struggling because of a lack of trust. It is very difficult to work effectively with
someone you don’t trust, especially when you have first-hand experience of
their unethical behaviour. I decided to
“<i>take sleep mark death</i>” (Jamaican
proverb – use the past to judge the present) because the need to be constantly
looking over my shoulders would be too much to carry. Despite the potential benefits, I did not
want to be that bothered, and as no one is indispensable, I am convinced that someone
else will come along. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I understand that a mature way
of handling the situation would be to employ strategies that enable me to access
the skills I need from the individual. Everyone
has good and bad inside them and we shouldn’t just walk away from circumstances
that render us uncomfortable; in that case we would always be walking away and
starting over. True maturity is being
able to use the information we have to develop approaches that will allow us to
work with people, however unprincipled they may be. However, there is also the tiny
matter of wisdom and having recognised that my level of maturity is not at that
advanced I hold steadfast to my decision to walk away and safeguard my peace of
mind.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Although the wrestling is over
I cannot help but think how people miss opportunities because of a bad
reputation. Skill is only half the story;
trustworthiness, character, personality and a host of other soft qualities are
equally important. In business, as in
our personal lives, our reputation often precedes us and it also lingers; we
cannot escape it. It is a valuable,
prized possession; the behaviour that encourages others to refer our services
to others. People make and maintain
associations with others because of their reputation - “show me your friend and
I’ll tell you who you are”. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">From time to time I am
approached by fellow entrepreneurs for a character reference for someone they
met or whose services they are thinking of contracting. This can be uncomfortable as, although I’ll never
‘dig a grave’ for anyone, I will also not engage in deceitful behaviour in
order to protect them. If I had a good
experience I will promote their services; if it was unpleasant I won’t, but it
is not my style to block other people’s progress. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Five years ago I enlisted the
services of an individual to create a professional video for a product I was
promoting. The person did a dry run and
promised to return but never did and I could no longer locate him. The video he produced was of very little use
to me and as I had paid in advance, I lost money in the process. Recently a colleague called me to say this
person had been pursuing him for a business opportunity and asked my opinion of
him. I simply related the experience I
had with the individual and my colleague made the decision to avoid him. The
videographer missed an opportunity to access a big project that has international
potential. It had taken five years but his
reputation eventually caught up with him.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Individuals have to understand
that when they behave ruthlessly they are digging their own graves. People are responsible for building their own
reputations; they cannot expect others to fabricate it for them. We cannot expect to be recommended by people
we trample on when we are on our way up to collect our pennies, for when the
time comes to collect the pounds we may very well fall off the ladder.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">What we say is not particularly
important; it’s what we do and how we make people feel that matter. We should take care not to sacrifice
long-term growth for short-term gains.
Bob Marley sang “you can fool some people some time but you can’t fool
all the people all the time”. The fact
that we escape with being imprudent now and again should not encourage us to
make it a norm in our lives. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So how does this apply in the
workplace? If we under-perform how can
we expect our employer to give us a good character reference? How well do we work in our teams? Do we endeavour to expose the weaknesses of fellow
team members or do we strive for a high performing team where everyone feels
valued? We all have moments when we veer off-track but we should never
deliberately hurt those we serve. Our
lives should be one of service; for whether employer or employee, we all serve
each other. Our actions speak louder
than our words and if we perform well we will find our businesses generating
repeat customers and our customers will advertise our services. The Spanish explain it well: “Cobra buena fama y <em><span style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-style: normal;">é</span></em><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">chat</span>e a dormir (develop a good reputation and
you can go off to sleep) – basically once you have established a good
reputation you can rest on your laurels.
Leaving a storm in you wake may be impressive but it is also
nonsensical.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The saying: “today for you, tomorrow for me” holds true,
for no one wins all of the time. There is a French proverb puts it this way: “<strong><span style="background: white; font-weight: normal;">tel qui rit vendredi dimanche pleurera”</span></strong><strong><span style="background: white;"> -</span></strong><br />
<span style="background: white;">he who laughs on Friday will cry on Sunday.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Since “to err is human” (<span style="background: white; color: #252525; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Alexander
Pope) we will from time to time offend but once there’s life there’s an
opportunity to make amends, however difficult it may be. </span>If we make it a
habit to behave with integrity those moments will be minimised and in our
dealings with others we will choose to take the higher ground.</span></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-120480401586582232015-02-18T20:36:00.000+00:002015-02-18T20:36:22.858+00:00Patient Man Rides Donkey<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">Earlier this week I was pulling into a
car park when I was stopped by a man who beckoned for me to wind down my
window. I instantly thought he had some important information to
disseminate regarding the use of the car park. He proceeded to let me
know where he was from and that he was homeless and hungry. I was
surprised that he had stopped me at the entrance to the car park to tell me of
his plight but I politely said, let me park first, I can’t stop here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">I proceeded to park
and eventually identified a somewhat awkward space. As I was
straightening the car to fit into the space there came the stranger again
seeking my attention. This was despite the fact that other cars were now
entering the area and I urgently needed to clear the road. I found the
stranger’s behaviour<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>somewhat annoying
as not only was I in the middle of parking the car but I was also responding to
a phone call via Bluetooth. He was aware that I was busy on both counts
but he was only concerned about his own plight. I ignored the stranger
who eventually walked away. By the time I came out of the car he was
nowhere in sight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">My attitude to
people who ask for money in the streets is either I give them or I do not;
I don’t over-analyse the situation. I don’t argue with them or
criticise them and I don’t wonder whether they are going to use the funds to
satisfy their vice or to buy food as they<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>claim.
In this case I might have given the stranger some money if only he had
the manners to wait until I had parked the car and disembarked. On the
other hand, was his hunger so dire that it made him lose the ability to
exercise good judgement? In any case it made me wonder, how many of us miss
opportunities because of what is perceived as a poor attitude.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">One of the proverbs
my parents drilled into me as a little girl was “<em>manners takes you through the world</em>”.
At the time I wondered about the veracity of that statement, since in my view
the word “manners” should have been replaced with “money”. I now
understand that it’s all about one’s attitude to life; this is what opens doors
and accesses opportunities. The stranger’s behaviour could have been due to a
bad attitude, impatience or desperation. However, those behaviours rob us
of our ability to apply good reason and limit our success in circumstances.
We need to recognise that it’s not always about first mover advantage; rather
it’s more about being ready for the move. We talk about being<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><em>in
the right place at the right time</em><span class="apple-converted-space"><i> </i></span>but
I think it’s really about being “at the right place, at the right time armed
with the right attitude. There is no point being present and unprepared.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">I have a friend who
is a landlord; he recently told me that he had a tenant who had lost her job,
fell upon hard times and defaulted in the payment of her rent. He
explained that the woman was thoroughly ashamed of her situation but engaged
with him in a way<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>that touched
his heart. During the discussions he realised that she was particularly
skilled in a certain field and for a long time she really wanted to start her
own business but lacked the required capital. Eventually he provided the
capital for the venture and became her business partner. The business
helps her to pay her rent, and earn a decent living. It’s early days but
the business has good prospects and both parties are happy with the
partnership. Had the tenant displayed the wrong attitude she would have
received a notice to quit and missed a golden opportunity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">I am fully aware
that in contemporary Britain there is a lot of stress on many families and
often something has to give; I submit to you, it should not be your
manners. It is far easier for people to be kind to you if you have the
right attitude. It can be difficult to maintain a good attitude when
there are so many triggers to set us off. The French have a proverb that
offers advice in this situation:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><em>Tourner sept fois sa langue dans
sa bouche</em><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span> –
Turn your tongue in your mouth seven times, i.e. think long and hard before
speaking. Of course, your attitude is revealed not only in what you say
but how you say it - your body language speaks volumes!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">In maintaining the
right attitude, do not forget to show gratitude – There is a Nigerian Proverb<span class="apple-converted-space"><i> </i></span><em>that says: Give thanks for a little and you
will find a lot.</em><span class="apple-converted-space"><i> </i></span>Being
gracious is a key ingredient in maintaining a good attitude.<span class="apple-converted-space"><i> </i></span><em> The journey of a thousand miles begins with a
single step</em>; be grateful that you are able to take that<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>first step.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><em> </em>One
of the lessons I learnt from my parents is that they are kind to people so that
people can be kind to their children; <em>what
goes around comes around</em>. Consider that what you do impacts
not just<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>on you but also on
the next generation; think about your legacy. The Jamaicans say –<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><em>what
drop off a head drop on shoulder</em>. The next generation will
reap the “fruits” sown by their parents – whether they be wheat or tares. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">In the workplace how
do we mind our manners? As managers or owners of organisations do we
foster an environment of mutual respect or do we drive our employees into the
ground? Do we exercise patience when they make bad decisions and do we
take time to teach? Do we engage in power play and make our employees
fearful of losing their jobs or do we encourage creativity and personal
growth. Do we continuously remind them of our positions – I am the boss –
or do they happily do their jobs well aware of who is who without it impacting
adversely on their psyche? We should lead by example, if you find
you have the “Do you know who I am?” syndrome then you should review your
management style. It is easier to lead people than to drag them; no one
wants to follow someone who has a bad attitude!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">There is no shortage
of situations and personalities that will rile<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>our spirits, causing us to lose our
patience. People may even<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><em>take our meekness for weakness</em>.
There is a Spanish proverb: <em>Al
mal tiempo, buena cara</em><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>–
be positive even in the bad<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>times.
Since we are human first and employers later, we often respond in a “human” way
which translates into “<em>an
eye for an eye</em>”. However, if we can find it within ourselves
to take the higher ground and maintain a good attitude we will ultimately
endure. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">Maintain a good
attitude –<span class="apple-converted-space"><b> </b></span><strong>“</strong><em>If you don't like something,
change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude</em>” - Maya
Angelou.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-76143764107356332532014-12-17T23:35:00.001+00:002014-12-17T23:35:11.450+00:00Those with spoons will have the soup<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;">We decided recently to refurbish our
house so we contacted a labourer who is currently unemployed and looking for
work. He inspected the premises and confirmed that he could carry out the
work and the price was agreed. On the day in question the man failed to
turn up or call but a day later he came and reported that he had had to address
a personal situation so he apologised and asked for a second chance. We
agreed that he would start in a few days. On the day in question he
turned up two hours late and without tools, offering an excuse as to why he
wasn't able to start as agreed. We contacted another labourer and soon the
work got underway. Labourer number 1 lost the opportunity and is still
looking for work. There is a Spanish</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;"> </span><span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;">proverb:
Rey muerto, rey puesto - no one is indispensable!</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;">This scenario
highlighted to me the fact that some people miss opportunities due to their
state of unpreparedness. Irrespective of how well you know your craft, if
you are consistently unprepared you risk losing out to those who may well be
less skilled.</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;"> </span><em style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;">If you get spoon you will drink
soup</em><span class="apple-converted-space" style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;"> </span><span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;">is a Jamaican
proverb which captures the essence of this</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;"> </span><span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;">sentiment.
Without your tools you</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;"> </span><span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt;">may
miss out on the spoils.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">It is important to
keep your lamp oiled for that moment when the groom may<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>enter. There is no point in
scurrying off to get your tools, for when you return the door may be shut; the
opportune moment does not wait. Each of us has been given the same number
of hours in the day – ample time to prepare ourselves to take opportunities
which often<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>show
up unexpectedly. I recall many years ago I was offered a post in a
Spanish-speaking country. At the time I was not the most senior or the
most experienced but I was the most prepared. I was at the only one
available with the required level of Spanish language knowledge to function
effectively in that role. Instead of waiting the usual least three years
for such an opportunity I was offered the post after just one year. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">Sometimes we are
unaware of the object of our preparation. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><em>"I
will prepare and some day my chance will come</em> - Abraham
Lincoln. Our trajectory in life is not always obvious - some courses on
which we embark simply emerge as we traverse through life. I recall when
I was<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>at post I took the
opportunity to study the Portuguese language. This move was criticised by
some who thought it was a silly decision, since the language did not figure
among the most popular. Several years later I was head-hunted by a top UK
university to lecture Portuguese Translation at the postgraduate level.
Your dreams and aspirations are planted in you; others don’t have to be able to
see it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">Preparedness is not
only demonstrated in having access to your tools, skills or information but
also in being in the right<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>frame of
mind. There is no point in turning up if you are just going through the
motions, without motivation or passion. A lack-lustre approach in a
meeting, a limp greeting or a generally unenthusiastic attitude will not gather
traction. Being in the right place at the right time is just half the
story; we have to be able to turn up, identify and take opportunities and be
able to create a positive impact on the minds of those who are able to make
that moment count.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">I have seen people
turn up to key events without their business cards, or they turn up too late to
meet key people. I have been in the right place at the right time but
failed to bring samples of my work for showcasing to potential stakeholders.
Sometimes this happens because we think it’s too bulky, heavy or inconvenient;
there is a Jamaican proverb that says “<em>horse
is not too good to carry its own grass</em>”. Most people who make
it in life have been helped by someone – for no man is an island. Many of
us screw up our elevator pitch because we are unprepared. We know the
value of what we have but we are unprepared to promote it; and since movers and
shakers cannot access the information the moment slips by, uneventful.
Preparedness is a natural phenomenon - even animals prepare for winter as they
gather their food and dress their abode. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">Many of us spend
hours preparing our bodies for the rigours of daily life. While it is
important for us to pay attention to our flesh we are not just a body; we are
also mind and spirit. Any change we experience has to start from within.
Preparation helps us focus, to feel worthy and to excel. There is nothing
special in being ordinary; we have to step out of that sphere and venture into
the unknown in order to explore our horizons. Despite our level of
preparedness we can fail but that failure will provide key lessons that will
place us in<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>good stead for
our next adventure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">An attitude of preparedness
will position us in the right frame of mind to keep exploring and pushing
boundaries which so often place limits on us and hinder our<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>progress. If we believe that
each person has a purpose in life we need to build our capacity to fulfil that
purpose. The African proverb: <em>tomorrow
belongs to the people who prepare for it today</em> sums it
up well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">As leaders of
organisations we have to ensure that our organisations are fit to access
business opportunities that may come our way. We should continuously
pursue professional development training for self and staff; acquire
appropriate quality marks which may be required by prospective buyers; and
build meaningful relationships that add value, increase competitiveness and
give access to bigger contracts, improved supply chains and strategic
partnerships. We should attend events to gather key information that is
relevant to our industry and get to know who’s who in our unique marketplace.
We should have contingency plans and engage in succession planning.
Disasters (man-made or natural) can strike at any time. I've heard it
said: <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><em>It wasn't raining when Noah built
the ark</em>. Perhaps we too should build our arks not only to
withstand the tests of time but to chart its course.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin-bottom: 22.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #4d4f51; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">Preparedness is a
key ingredient in success building.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-38730238761549440772014-10-04T00:23:00.000+01:002014-10-04T00:23:33.768+01:00Cow doesn’t know the use of its tail<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCO1x81MrAg/VC8vPZGTL2I/AAAAAAAAAGs/Cj2oBGBHMPs/s1600/images%5B4%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCO1x81MrAg/VC8vPZGTL2I/AAAAAAAAAGs/Cj2oBGBHMPs/s1600/images%5B4%5D.jpg" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">I read recently that a d</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">og
started to walk on its hind legs after having an accident which resulted in damage
to its front legs</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">. I have seen dogs standing upright while
reaching for items but never seen one walking around on its hind legs. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">I thought it
interesting that the dog started to walk on its hind legs after finding that
its front legs were non-functional. Could
the dog do this before but simply didn’t? Had the front legs not been broken
would that dog have learnt to walk on its hind legs? This situation reminded me of the men and
women who participate in the paralympic games, going after gold and often
achieving more than when they did when they were fully able-bodied. I wonder why many paralympians and indeed the
dog were not inclined to do the same before they lost the use of their limbs. Does it suggest that the loss of a limb or
the occurrence of misadventure raises the level of consciousness of an
individual and forces him/her to be creative and fearless? Does this explain the phenomenon where people embark
on charitable ventures for the wider good after experiencing particularly
challenging life-changing situations?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Some may argue: <i>“if it’s not broken, why fix it?”</i>
suggesting that if we have two legs why bother to learn to hop. When I was a child my parents often told me <i>“When others are jumping to two legs you’re
better off jumping on one”</i>. This
Jamaican proverb had me seriously perplexed for a number of years until I came
to realise its significance- Don’t feel that you have to be like others, there
is no there is no shame in being different.
I now realise it can also convey the importance of being resourceful -
not feeling that we must have everything in order to be successful in our
endeavours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">This story made me
realise that we are equipped with what we need to pursue our goals. Sometimes we look at our situations and we
fail to see a way; we find reasons why we can’t, instead of seeing opportunities
where we can. There is a Spanish
proverb: </span><i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A
la ocasion la pintan calva</span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> - <i>Strike when
the iron is hot</i>. </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">We often wait until
our backs are against the wall before we explore our latent talents in order to
find solutions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">If we maintain an
open mind and adopt an attitude of gratitude in the presence of opposition, seeing
it as a challenge to dig deeper, we will be better able to look into and beyond
the opposition and spot the opportunity.
After the storm there is calm and it’s in that still moment that our
Eureka shows up. We can’t keep running;
sometimes we have to stop, assess, plan strategy and start again. We have to be creative in our thinking,
embracing a “yes and” attitude instead of a “yes but” one. Instead of waiting for a better moment or
another solution we should explore our options or better still, be the solution. <i>There
is no time like the present.</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">When we
ignore our innate ability we crave things that we believe we need to solve our
problems. We think that if only we could
get this or that all would be well and we would be happy. N</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">ot so long ago we attempted to potty-train our little girl. She became dry by day quite quickly but we did
not believe in our ability to achieve a similar outcome at night. We were referred to a clinic that specialises
in this field but there was a long wait.
While we waited we started the process of waking her up at a certain
time of the night. To our surprise, it
worked almost immediately. By the time
we got access to the treatment we no longer needed it. We had mistakenly assumed that because the
child has special needs it was beyond our capability to get her over this
hurdle, not realising that we were indeed equipped with the tools we needed. We learnt not to make unfounded assumptions –
<i>the proof of the pudding is in the eating;
t</i>ry it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">There is a Jamaican
proverb that says: <i>when trouble tek man pickney shut fit him</i> (similar to: <i>any
port in a storm</i>) - when our backs are against the wall we find ways of
coping; we find solutions, even if they are not ideal. We shouldn’t wait until we find ourselves in
a jam before we start to explore. We
shouldn’t have to lose a leg before we decide to climb a mountain. In the same way, we don’t have to wait until we
suffer misfortune before we embark on a venture that benefits others. We all possess much undiscovered, unexplored talent which we
haven’t nurtured. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">It is normal to
harbour feelings of inadequacy in the face of uncertainty. Inexperience, doubt and fear often override
our confidence and make us feel incapable.
We are born with solutions which may not resemble those employed by
others but are nonetheless relevant. The
solutions we enjoy today were first introduced by people who initially had no
experience and who would have failed several times. However they did not allow their enthusiasm,
drive and ambition to give way to the fear of failure. They didn’t give up and thanks to that dogged
determination and positive attitude, we enjoy a host of products and services
today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">As business people
what new, innovative steps are you taking to keep your organisation
growing? Are you tagging along on four
legs or are you trying to balance on two?
What would happen if you break a leg, could you still thrive? What happens if two key staff members resign;
would it impact adversely on your competitiveness? What key skills have you identified in your
company that could help to reduce cost and promote job satisfaction? Very often we have the skills we need under
our noses but because we are so far removed from the ground we fail to spot them. It is fine to have a helicopter view but it
is also good to pay attention to details.
We have to respect the competence of our most valuable assets – the
people who help us deliver the products and services that keep us in the game. Involve staff in your decision-making; they
understand what customers need and could save you thousands which you may
otherwise pay to consultants which often do not have firsthand knowledge and
understanding of your marketplace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Get to know the use
of your “tail” before you lose it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-29912954864527349442014-07-21T22:23:00.000+01:002014-07-21T22:23:26.773+01:00Hard work brings true joy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
The 2014 World Cup games recently
concluded in Brazil. It was wonderful to
see sportsmen at their best, chasing a prize that would demonstrate their superior
specialist skills and bring pride to their nations. As I watched the various matches, I realised
that the beautiful game, and indeed other team games offer important lessons,
if only we take time to examine the principles:</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>i) Goal setting</b> – The ultimate aim of a football team is to score
more goals than the opponent and in so doing earn the coveted crown. Teams set goals for different stages in their
development – they know where they want to be and when. In life too we have to
set goals and take steps to achieve them.
When we go with the flow, life just floats along and as we have no set
destination we end up some place some day, doing something with someone. Though we may have to change the goalposts from
time to time it is important to set goals to help us chart our paths to our
desired objective.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>ii) Targeting</b> – In order to win a game a team needs to hit the
target. Team members are aware of the
target and they know that there is an obstacle in the form of a goalkeeper who
is blocking that target. They keep their
eyes and minds on the target, never losing sight of it. We too should have
targets. What are you aiming for? Do you know what you want, why you want it
and how you will know when you have achieved it? What would happen if you don’t hit your
target; more importantly, what would happen if you do? Many of us have learnt to handle failure but struggle
with success. We can’t afford to hit our target only to have it slip from our
hands, for we weren't prepared for it.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>iii) Drive</b> – Irrespective of a team’s position in the league tables,
they must have drive. There is no
shortage of takers for the position if a top team loses momentum and its
performance slips. Complacency has no
place in the Primer League. In life too we must maintain our drive. It is normal for one to tire or to lose
interest but it is not how many times we fall, but the number of times we get
up and get going again. If you are
serious about achieving a goal you have to keep up the momentum. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if necessary;
often the end is imminent though we may not be able to see it. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>iv) Teamwork</b> – Football is a team game; no one individual can make
a team successful. A group of people
come together to train, plan and execute; sometimes they win and sometimes they
lose. A successful goal and resulting
win is celebrated by all, not just by the individual who was lucky enough to
hit the target. In the wider society we have to adopt an attitude of cooperation. This is not a new concept - countries form economic
blocs, corporations merge or form strategic alliances in order to increase
their market share, individuals form partnerships and capitalize on each
other’s strengths to access bigger contracts. “<i>No man is an island</i>”.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>v) Forgiveness </b>– Individuals within a team often make mistakes that
may lead to the awarding of a penalty to the competitor; needless to say, the
resulting goal sometimes makes the difference between winning and losing. The team has to put the error behind them,
acknowledge their loss as a team and not focus on the individual who made the
mistake. We too have to forgive and not
allow ill feelings to fester. We have to
look for the good in the person and not dwell on the offence. Forgiveness liberates; it is not about the other
person being let off the hook, for that person will have to live with the
consequences of his actions, forgiven or not.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>vi) Celebration of small successes</b> - When a football game is in
progress each goal is celebrated, even if there are 90 minutes left to
play. Although the game is not over, the
players, their management team and indeed their fans celebrate the successes
along the way. Too often we think that
we have to conquer the entire mountain before we are entitled to celebrate. Don’t
be pessimistic! Celebrate the small
steps, for the big achievements are made up of smaller (often invisible), consistent
actions. Life is also about the journey,
not just the destination.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>vii) Time management</b> – Footballers have to turn up at
pre-determined times for their practice sessions and they have to commit an
agreed amount of time to practising. Time
is a very important factor on the field – matches start at set times and
players are expected to play for 90 minutes and extra time if necessary. Time is a great resource – not one to be
wasted. There are many factors in
today’s society that can waste our time if not managed effectively – emails,
text, telephone calls, attendance at events, social visits, meetings, traffic
etc. We have to identify the time
wasters in our lives and manage them. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>viii) Commitment and dedication</b> – Footballers generally earn
significant sums and this has been a popular topic for discussion. What is often ignored is the level of
commitment and dedication that they put into their preparation. They have to be out of their beds at
unsociable hours in wind, rain and sun in order to train with the team. We too have to be committed and dedicated to
whichever endeavour we undertake. We
cannot run away when the going gets rough or when we <i>cannot see the wood for the trees</i>.
We have to develop staying power; if we believe in what we do we’ll stay
and see it through. Aim for sustainability
and longevity; if your venture eventually fails, at least you can say that you
gave it a fair shot. Learn your lessons,
move on and try not to repeat your mistakes. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>ix) Staying calm under pressure</b> - This characteristic is shown
particularly when footballers are taking penalties. There is tremendous pressure and the result
of their effort may not reflect their level of skill. There are many elements in life that put us
under pressure – economics, politics, technology; environmental, social and
personal factors, among others. Our
ability to remain calm reduces our stress level and strengthens our coping
mechanism. There will always be hills
and valleys in our path but we have to look beyond the immediate and recognise
that there is always a way, even when we cannot see the way. Bear in mind that if we fail today “<i>tomorrow is another day</i>.” The quickest distance between two points is
not necessarily via a straight line.
There is a fitting Jamaican proverb:
<i>Shortcut draws blood, long road
draws sweat </i>– we have a choice. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>x) Resilience</b> – I have never seen a football game where all the players
remain on their feet. Invariably they
are knocked over time after time and although they hurt, they get up and in
most cases they resume play. In life we
will be hurt sometimes, knocked over - even trampled, we may bleed; however,
there is no justification for staying down.
We may be injured but we don’t have to succumb to our injuries; bounce
back - look up and get up; don’t give in!</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xi) Physical exercise and keeping fit</b> – Footballers have to be fit;
they constantly exercise in order to be able to outmanoeuvre and outlast the
competition. While some of us will be
overweight, what is important is that we endeavour to keep ourselves healthy to
the best of our ability so that we give ourselves the best chance of achieving
our goals. Keeping fit includes avoiding
excesses that harm our bodies and make us unfit to achieve our purpose. It includes getting enough sleep and feeding
our mind, body and spirit.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xii) Passion </b>- Those who play football are not only drawn to the
high wages and fame – they generally have significant passion for the
game. This is what makes them get out of
bed consistently; it keeps them going even after they have made their millions. They are doing what they love to do and it may
not even feel like work. We too must
find the source of our passion. If we
enjoy our work we are more likely to turn up in the rain, wind and snow. We will be motivated and we will want to do
it well. Passion gives us staying power
– makes us tough <i>when the going gets rough</i>.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xiii) Regard for family</b> – After a tournament footballers can often
be seen relaxing in exotic places with their significant other. Good sportsmen spend time with their families;
returning to basics for a dose of reality from time to time. They balance work life with family life,
ensuring that neither suffers. Too many families fall apart because individuals
within that family fail to make time for others. They are caught up in their own careers and they
think that being able to shower their family with money and expensive gifts
will replace quality time. Ultimately
their personal lives get into trouble initiating a vicious cycle as their
professional lives start to suffer. Life is about balance – achieve the right
balance and your happiness and success will be enhanced.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xiv) Strategy</b> – Even if you don’t know much about football, you are
likely to be able to recognise effective strategies on the field when you see
it. The game follows key principles and formations
i.e. strategies that the team would have prepared. There is a saying that goes
“<i>if you fail to plan, you plan to fail</i>”. If you fail to plan a strategy to achieve your
goals they will just remain there and become dreams, or may even turn into
nightmares. If you just go with the flow
chances are you will wash up anywhere.
While that may work for some people most of us have to put strategies into
place in order to survive and thrive. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xv) Flexibility</b> – Although the team would have planned a particular
strategy with their manager, they often have to change, based on the actions of
their opponents. We often see managers
substituting players and giving them new instructions on the sidelines. We may also see a change in strategy after
half time if the manager deems this necessary. Footballers have to play in
varying climatic conditions – they have to adapt. In life we too have to be flexible. Having a strategy is essential but as we do
not exist in a vacuum we must bear in mind that the external environment will
impact and we may have to change our strategy; we have to be responsive to the actions
of other people.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xvi) Positive thinking</b> – Footballers believe they can win every
time. The moment they consider defeat is
the moment they are defeated. They have
to believe in themselves and their ability to conquer the opposition, thus satisfying
their fans and safeguarding their status. Every change begins in the mind. Your thoughts lead to your actions and consistent
actions become habits. If you don’t develop
a habit of believing in yourself it will be difficult to conquer your mountains,
indeed your molehills will start to resemble mountains. Once you are realistic in your aspirations
there is no reason for you to doubt yourself; just use positive affirmations
and consider that if it doesn’t work out <i>this
too shall pass</i>. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xvii) Perseverance</b> – Footballers have to keep going. No doubt they tire tremendously after 90
minutes of consistent running, however they block out the pain as far as is
possible, keeping at the forefront of their minds the goal they are pursuing. Many
of us tire quickly, we have very little staying power and when the going gets
rough we retire our projects and move on to something else. “<i>Rolling
stones gather no moss.” </i>The next
project will not necessarily be easier and we may find that <i>the grass is not greener on the other side</i>. Stick with it - take your project to completion.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xviii) Instinct </b>– Irrespective of the level of the coaching and
instructions given to footballers, when they are on the field they are masters
of their own destiny. We often see
footballers risk receiving a yellow or a red card in order to prevent the
opposition scoring. They have to weigh the consequences of their actions
against the risk of a goal being scored.
At that moment intellect is good but instinct is better. We too have to be
in tune with our intuition and know when to take actions that will impact our
situations. Our mentors have no access
to our gut feelings; we have to be true to ourselves and acknowledge that instinct
is an innate quality that aids our decision-making.<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xix) Self control</b> – Footballers sometimes get into tussles on the
field if they feel they have been disrespected or if their egos have been
bruised. However, for the most part they
do exercise self control. One could
argue that their restraint is attributed to the power of the referee’s cards - yellow
or red, which could punish them and their teams with disastrous consequences. Self
control is a key factor in emotional intelligence - one which enables us to
exercise tolerance, understanding, forgiveness and patience. If we allow others to make us angry and we
lose control we give away our power. If
we don’t control our emotions we lose opportunities and close doors that could
lead to good places – indeed we harm our chances in life. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xx) Respect</b> – Footballers must show respect for authority. They will tell you how much they wanted to be
in the starting line-up for games but their managers had other ideas. They are often substituted on the pitch when
they feel they have a lot more to give.
They have to respect their manager’s decisions. Even if they are dropped from the team they
still have to be respectful, especially if they hope to be courted by another
team. Respect for self and others are key ingredients in personal and
professional growth. Movers and shakers
do not like disrespectful people and will not go the extra mile to help even
when it costs them nothing. The Jamaican
proverb: “<i>Manners takes you through the world</i>” conveys this well.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xxi) Professionalism</b> – It must be very painful to lose a game,
especially the ones that are deemed important in league tables or which are
played on the international stage.
Despite any disappointment or aversion footballers shake the hands of their
opponents and they often cheer them at the end. Even when they are suffering an
embarrassing defeat they don’t abandon the game. Whatever we do we should ensure that we adopt
a professional approach. It is
tantamount to integrity and these are the factors that make us look good and
add value to our repertoire. Pain is
found in every walk of life and although we have the right to hurt, we do not
have the right to remain wounded. As the
saying goes: “<i>Today for you, tomorrow for me</i>”.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xxii) Discipline</b> – Despite what people may think footballers are generally
highly self-disciplined. They have to be
careful about what they consume, they have to refrain from certain vices and
they have to ensure that they have sufficient rest in order to keep themselves
fit for the team. In life we must maintain discipline if we are to co-exist
peacefully. At the very least we have to
be tolerant, respect diversity, obey the law and pay taxes. No one wants to live in a lawless society
where our security is compromised because people simply disrespect authority, disobey
rules and ignore responsibility. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xxiii) Fearlessness</b> – Watching a penalty shootout is a very tense
moment even for those who do not play the game.
Imagine therefore the fear that the penalty taker must feel, aware of
the responsibility on his shoulders. If left unmanaged fear stifles creativity; it
stops us from taking risks that could propel us forward and it curtails our
drive. It is a natural phenomenon that
we all experience but we have to develop strategies to control it.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xxiv) Money</b> <b>making </b>–
Footballers make big money. They found
their purpose, play with passion and earn well from their chosen a career. They do not waste time in roles that do not
pay well and if they are not playing well they are replaced. We too must find worthwhile opportunities and
ensure we are making good use of our time.
While it is fine to be in entry level jobs for a while, the onus is on
us to grow professionally so that we can meet our needs and be a blessing to
others in due season.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xxv) Work hard, play hard</b> – We have already established that
footballers work hard. They play hard
too. It is not unusual to see photographs
of them in the press enjoying themselves in some faraway place with their mates
or loved ones. In our aspiration to
acquire the finer things in life we often forget to have fun. We end up taking work home, working overtime,
just to make a few extra bucks to <i>save
for a rainy day</i>. Unfortunately by
the time we get around to enjoying our savings many of us find ourselves alone,
are ill or may even be dead. “<i>All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xxvi) Patience</b> – There are often debates about whether a manager
should be fired after an unsuccessful run or if such a manager should be
allowed to complete their intended contractual tenure. Often it takes a while for success to come;
the board, players and fans alike have to exercise patience and allow the team
to gel under the manager’s leadership. <i>Patience is a virtue</i>; too often we give
up early because we don’t immediately see the results we are hoping for. There is a Jamaican saying that explains this
phenomenon: <i>the darkest part of night is when day soon light</i>”. There will be difficult moments but with
patience and hard work we will <i>see the
light at the end of the tunnel</i>.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xxvii) Gratitude</b> – Many footballers, indeed many sportsmen will
tell you that one of their greatest joys was the fact that they were able to
purchase property for their parents. Many
will have assisted their friends and family to set up business, settle debts or
purchase items beyond their reach. We
too must not forget our roots; we must reach out to those who helped us in our
formative years and those who may have struggled with us before we achieved
success. There is a famous quote that
says: <i>be careful how you treat people on
your way up because you might meet them again on your way down</i>. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xxviii) Generosity </b>– From time to time we hear of sportsmen who
have donated money and resources to individuals. It could be as simple as purchasing drinks
for everyone at a venue or leaving a handsome tip at a restaurant. They generally do not count their pennies;
they focus instead on bringing in the pounds.
In life we too must be generous with our resources. It doesn't have to be financial help – giving
of our time, effort, know-how, physical resources, among others is just as
good. For those of us who do business we
must ensure that we negotiate win/win contracts so that all parties feel valued. There is no need to attach getting to our
giving; indeed giving is the seed to your getting. <b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xxix) Philanthropy</b> – Right across the world there are projects that
are set up and/or funded by sportsmen. Altruism
goes beyond one’s immediate social group and extends out to humanity, perhaps
building a school, funding a charity, purchasing equipment for a hospital, developing
a sport facility within a community.
Human beings must seek to leave a legacy, however small, not only to our
family but to the world. We are bound to
support our own children but how many of us help other people’s children? We
may not be able to help everyone but surely we can help someone. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>xxx) Hard work brings true joy</b> – As we watched the German team go
for and achieve glory, one cannot help but cheer, irrespective of our
allegiance. When you listen to their story
and see how far they’ve come you recognise how deserving of the title they are.
They believed in themselves, worked well as a team, remained calm under
pressure, exercised patience, perseverance, professionalism and discipline;
conquered their fear, planned their strategy and executed their plan. At the end of the tournament they returned
home to a heroes’ welcome. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
The current thinking is that success
is not about working harder, but rather, working smarter. Irrespective of how smart we think we are, we
have to put in the hours if we want to achieve our goals. We have to put measures into place for making
money to satisfy our needs and wants. <i>Hard work still does bring true joy -</i> ask
the Germans! </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-25746460909971168132014-05-18T00:26:00.000+01:002014-05-18T00:27:20.876+01:00Circumstances Make People<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From time to time it is
reported in the media that parents are arrested for harming or fatally wounding
their children. It was recently reported
in the UK press that a mother killed her three severely disabled children while
she was left at home with them, their father being away on holiday with their
able-bodied child. This extremely sad
case came as a shock to friends, family, neighbours and the wider society as
despite the affliction of the children aged 3-4, the family appeared content.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">No doubt the mother, who has
been arrested and charged, will come under severe criticism. As someone who is familiar with the
challenges of caring for a disabled person, I can understand the desperation
she could have felt. I wonder how many
of those who now point fingers at her offered a helping hand when she needed it
most. How many people reached out and
touched her in one way or another, perhaps offering to babysit while she took a
break? Caring for three children under
the age of five is no mean feat, a situation made worse by the fact that those
children are unable to walk, talk or attend to their personal needs. Those who know the mother say that she is a respectable
woman, never in trouble or caused any trouble.
What went wrong therefore? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>“Man is the creature of circumstances</i>” said Robert Owen - an
Eighteenth Century Welsh social reformer and philanthropist. When our backs are
against the wall we find ways of bouncing back, provided we are not ready to
give up. The situations in which we find
ourselves often dictate the decisions we make and in some cases we make
decisions that are contrary to our values.
Some call this phenomenon “survival”; others see it as “going off the rails”
and, as in the case of the mother in this text, some call it “snapped”. Our prisons are packed with people who
snapped.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We all find ourselves changing
our goal posts as we traverse through life.
Many of us in our early years would have said – “by X time I must have
done Y” or when I grow up I will be Z.
As we mature our aspirations shift as environmental factors impact and
we realise that our goals are no longer realistic. <span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">There is an African proverb that says: “People are
like chameleons – circumstances make them change their colour”. </span>The
direction and quality of our lives do not depend on us alone, for we<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"> are but part of a whole. Our interactions, the people we meet, the challenges
we face - and overcome, where we live and a host of other factors impact on the
nature and quality of the lives we lead.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My life experiences have
widened my understanding of human behaviour and I recognise that people have
varying degrees of strength depending on the circumstances. The fact that I am strong in the workplace
does not mean that I am strong in the home or in a social setting. Consider the following example: Several years
ago I attended a colleague’s wedding reception; we had been waiting for the MC
to arrive and as time passed it became increasingly worrying as it appeared
that this person would not show up. I
was asked to step in for the MC, an area in which I had neither experience nor
passion but I found it difficult to decline, given the circumstances. Luckily 15 minutes into the programme the MC
arrived and the day was saved. The fact
that I was a leader in the workplace led people to believe that I would be a
fitting MC at the wedding. I recognise
that I had skills that were transferable and I rose to the occasion (albeit
apprehensively), for circumstances make people. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The fact that we find
ourselves in an uncomfortable situation can be a blessing in disguise for it is
that discomfort which may provide the stimulus to unearth our latent skills and
propel us to discover new avenues for development and prosperity. Had I been so inclined, the wedding scenario
could have given birth to talent yet explored and who knows where it could have
led. An uncomfortable situation can ignite
a spark and fuel the fire within - triggering innovation, entrepreneurship,
creativity, growth. Some people call it
luck – being in the right place at the right time; some call it destiny, others
see it as simply grasping opportunities that present themselves. Renowned Motivational Speaker, speech coach
and bestselling author Les Brown might have been uncomfortable when he was
suddenly thrust into the role of radio DJ (a position he craved) but he
excelled in the role and it essentially helped
him to launch his outstanding career.
If we endeavour to <i>bloom where we
are planted</i> chances are our circumstances, coupled with a positive attitude
will enable us to conquer greater heights. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On the flip side, there are
those who, despite a change of circumstances, do not themselves experience or
embrace change. I have a friend who is
currently contemplating divorce because his wife refuses to bury her ghetto mentality,
despite moving out of the ghetto. Seeds
placed in the ground can either be planted or buried; we must recognise that we
cannot change people who do not want to change.
Circumstances will not “make” everyone!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">World economics has impacted heavily
in recent years but despite the challenges we can have a positive effect on
others if we engage a caring attitude. We
must recognise that people often need help but are too afraid, too shy or too proud
to request it. On the other hand we are overly
worried about being rebuffed so we adopt an attitude of apathy in order to protect
our hearts. Don’t be that person who could
have helped but didn’t; don’t risk living a life of regrets. The mother in this story shouldn’t have had to
ask for help; from a distance everyone could see that she needed help. We are too quick to close our eyes and mind
our own business when really the human race is a single race and whatever affects
one affects all. That is why foreign
aid for development makes sense, provided it is appropriately administered. You
can close your eyes as much as you want; you will still see because you don’t
need eyes to look within. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is said that people living
in deprived communities are more prone to committing crime. While we must not
use a broad-brush to paint all such people we have to recognise that if people are
unable to meet their basic needs they will pursue unconventional ways of
providing for their needs; they won’t just go away and neither will their
needs! Provide avenues for those people
to earn their keep and chances are they will embrace the opportunities presented
and start to contribute meaningfully to society. Jamaican singer/songwriter – Buju Banton sings: <i>“Circumstances
made me what I am; was I born a violent man?”</i> We all have the same basic aspirations – adequate
food, clothing, shelter, safety/security, access to health care, a decent
future for our children. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the workplace how do we relate
to others? As leaders of organisations
do we choose to close our eyes to the plight of individuals who clearly are
struggling but who nonetheless turn up day after day? Do we explore and implement ways of alleviating
their distress? Too many of us know the
right actions to take but fail to take them because of weak leadership or for
fear of being accused of double standards.
We meander about like masked ogres – oblivious, or rather insensitive to
people’s situations. The changes we make
do not have to be significant – small incremental steps such as introducing
flexitime will allow employees more time to prepare their children for school
and/or to benefit from reduced travel costs, being able to travel during off
peak hours. Being able to avoid peak
hours can also reduce stress levels and boost productivity. A small action can make a big difference. There is a Jamaican saying: <i>When
oders a jump pan two leg yuh betta jump on one; </i>(when others are jumping on
two legs, you are better off jumping on one)<i>
</i>– don’t be afraid to be different; pursue the right course of action,
unpopular though it may be.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Look at the bigger picture –
caring for people means caring for ourselves for if our employees are
consistently unhappy, the safety and security of our workplaces are at risk. If we negotiate win-lose contracts, they will
be unsustainable. It is always better to
care about others for if they are content, we will be too - for contentment is contagious.
If you continually push people into
corners where they feel they are unfairly treated they will eventually rebel.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Life is increasingly stressful
for many, without regard to their background, belief, financial status, or
other defining characteristic. We don’t
know what it takes to push someone over the edge – it’s not always obvious! Offering a helping hand often costs us
nothing but that lowly act could prove invaluable - it could save a life - for
circumstances make people. </span></div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-50295720339746180302014-03-09T00:30:00.000+00:002014-03-09T00:30:07.758+00:00The Poor will be Poorer?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was recently visiting someone in
hospital when I encountered a hospital employee – a woman who appeared to be in
her late 40s – heading for the toilets with her cleaning equipment. When she emerged
she acknowledged me with the words “the poor will be poorer”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While conversing with her I learnt that her
name is Norma and that she has been employed as a cleaner at the hospital for
many years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She indicated that she had always
ensured that her work was done to a very high standard but had seen colleagues
who had not been so meticulous get promoted ahead of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I sensed that she felt frustrated, unrewarded,
unappreciated and taken for granted. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
chatted for a while and she left in a somewhat more cheerful mood.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“The rich get <span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">richer and the
poor get poorer” is a phrase that is used in the context of economic inequality
but I realised during our conversation that she was referring to the Bible –
Matthew 13:12 – “</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Whoever has will be given more, and he will
have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from
him</span></i><span style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">.” </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">It is unfortunate that that verse is taken
out of context for if we read the preceding verses we see that it is a parable
referring to seeds falling in different places – on stony ground, among thorns
and on</span> good ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did Norma
take the parable literally and was therefore bound by its inference, believing
that being poor was her fate?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a
Jamaican proverb that says: “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hard ears pickney
nyam rackstone” - who doesn’t hear will feel. </i>Some of us hear but do not
listen and eventually face the consequences, while others listen but do not
hear because they are so distracted.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Since the encounter I found
myself thinking about Norma’s chosen words: “the poor will be poorer”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is significant that she stopped there, not
mentioning the rich for clearly she has no part with ‘them’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She cannot imagine herself among the rich so she
saw no point in uttering it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we do
not prepare our minds for increase how will we cope with that increase when it
arrives? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Norma drew inspiration from the
Bible but how could those biblical references be more encouraging to her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If her seeds fell on good ground she would
appreciate the need to build her repertoire and become the best cleaner there
is and widen her horizons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would
develop the courage and confidence to approach her bosses for promotion or to
discuss her professional growth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would
develop the will to explore avenues for personal development (within or outside
the organisation) – applying for higher or lateral positions that will give her
more job satisfaction, opportunity for upward mobility and greater rewards, financial
and otherwise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">We all have talents but it is for us to
seek ways of showcasing and maximising them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There is no point throwing them on stony ground and then complaining
that they don’t grow. Neither should we let negative influences confuse, hamper
or ensnare us; we have to take our future into our own hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we want something we have to work for it
or ask for it; we cannot assume that it will be handed to us. The same Bible
that Norma reads tells us:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="background: rgb(253, 254, 255); color: #0d0d0d; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">"Ask and it will be given to you;
seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (Matthew 7:7)</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too many of us don’t ask, don’t receive and
then blame the world for not giving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
years ago I was writing a book and needed some pictures; I tried to purchase
them but couldn’t handle the restrictions so I turned to the internet where I
found some wonderful pictures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I asked
the various owners if I could use their pictures and every single person said
“Yes”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the end I had more than I
needed and I happily sent copies of the book to those who had obliged. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I pondered more on Norma’s statement
– the poor will be poorer, the thought occurred to me - how can it be that the
person who is responsible for maintaining the most important part of the house
see herself at the very bottom (no pun intended) of the pecking order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As far as I see it, the bathroom is the main
part of the house for what you can do in the bathroom you cannot do in any
other part of the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s break it
down – the bathroom has a bath where you can sleep if necessary, just place a
pillow and some sheets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The toilet
provides a seat with cover which can be used as a chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your bathroom includes a dressing table
you can use it as a dining table and it has a sink where you can wash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can wash your clothes in the bath and
hang them on the rails to dry – the bathroom can replace the laundry room,
living room, dining room and in a given moment, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the
kitchen – just place a hotplate on the dressing table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is improbable that we use our bathrooms in
that way but it is certainly possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Now turn the tables and let’s see where in our houses we can use in the
same way as we use our bathrooms?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
think we would be challenged to identify such a place.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It follows therefore that the bathroom
is the key part of the house. If a man’s house is his castle, what can we
conclude? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider: if the toilets at
the castle are out of use and an important event is being planned at the venue
it is almost certain that the said event would be cancelled (unless other
conveniences can be accessed).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why does
the person who is in charge of the most important part of the castle find
herself at the bottom of the pile (again, no pun) - disregarded, disrespected,
scoffed at and worse still, lack self esteem?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How can the cleaner be made to understand that she plays a key role?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a popular anecdote that goes like
this:</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 21.2pt 10pt 21.3pt; tab-stops: 418.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The parts of the body were talking, each in turn
arguing that they hold the most importance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The eyes said that without them the body wouldn’t see where it was
going, the legs said that without them, no one was going anywhere; the hands
said they do the work that bring in the money, and the list goes on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When it was the anus’ turn, they all laugh
and scoffed at it, clearly indicating that it was the least among them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bottom took offence and went on strike
and hell broke loose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The eyes started
to bulge, the legs weren’t going anywhere, the stomach hurt, hands couldn’t go
to work, no one was able to function. They soon realised the importance of the
anus and eventually they acknowledged that Mr Anus was indeed the boss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He went back to work bringing an end to the chaos.
</span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">The above correlates with a biblical
story (1 Corinthians 12: 12-26) and holds important lessons about the
interconnectedness and inter-reliance of our body parts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are interdependent - we need each other to
survive and no one is better than the other, irrespective of his or her status.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is an Italian proverb that says: </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Alla<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="yshortcuts">fine del gioco</span>,
il re e il<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="yshortcuts">pedone</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>tornano
nella stessa<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="yshortcuts">scatola</span></span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"> (Once the game is over, the king and the pawn go back
into the same box). </span></i><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Be humble, respectful and grateful for we are all equal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The first will be last” (Matt. 20:27-28) promotes
Servanthood for “if anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and
servant of all”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This week one of my students asked me to
explain the meaning of the word ‘initiative’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That is what Norma should show – an attitude that goes beyond the call
of duty, is resourceful, creative, identifies problems and proposes solutions; she
should make herself invaluable!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If that
doesn’t work at least she would have earned a good reference which will position
her in good stead to seek more rewarding opportunities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the end of the day no one is indispensable
and she is not tied to that hospital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She may have other reasons why she may want to stay – location, fear,
resistance to change, apathy, convenience, the work schedule, travel costs, relationships,
flexibility, security... the list goes on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She has to consider all those factors and decide what is important to
her.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As managers of organisations, how do we
relate to our junior staff?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do we
recognise the value of their contributions to our success and do we create
pathways through which they can grow and get an opportunity to shine?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too often we ignore those who are watering
our roots, appealing instead to those who are admiring our leaves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We should be careful about this and take time
to ensure that those who are close to us feel valued and know that they are
appreciated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seek opportunities to show
appreciation – a gift from a business trip, a birthday card, at simple Thank You.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look around your office and find the
Normas that may be there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Help them
discover their talent and show them how they could increase their rewards and
enhance their job satisfaction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look for
opportunities to show gratitude and appreciation; share some of the spoils with
your staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Life is a cycle and we don’t know where
we will be tomorrow; be nice to people and take no one for granted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the end of the day all human beings need
the same things to survive (food, clothing shelter) and generally share the
same aspirations – safety, belonging, esteem, self actualisation/success.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No man is an island and the sooner we realise
it, the better off we all will be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we
help others to get what they want, we in turn will get what we want.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The poor may get poorer but if they
look carefully at what they have in their hands and use it, they may discover
that they are not so poor after all.</span></span></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-5791923420270808402014-01-31T22:29:00.000+00:002014-01-31T22:29:24.459+00:00Self Belief – Key Ingredient in Personal Growth<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: justify;">I run a weekly Employability
Skills session for young people aged 18-24 who are preparing to embark on a
career. Recently I had a young woman - Emily in my session whose profile
revealed that she had completed high school, qualified as a Beauty Therapist
and went to university.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">When I asked her
about her chosen career I learnt that her sole interest was in securing a
domestic cleaning job.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">She indicated
that she had no other aspiration, despite her education, training and employment
history.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">I found this decision somewhat
strange so I probed further.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">She mentioned
that she had dropped out of university and lost her youth mentoring job some
time ago.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">She had a number of failures
and during this period she was told that she was dyslexic and couldn't excel at
anything.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">She basically ‘accepted her
fate’ and arrived at the conclusion that she would seek employment as a cleaner
because she enjoyed cleaning her house.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Before I proceed, I want it to be
clear that I have no issue with people who work as domestic cleaners. Our society needs people who are willing and
able to perform a range of jobs in order for us to lead healthy, abundant lives.
There is therefore nothing wrong in pursuing a career in cleaning if you are
passionate about it and you made the choice yourself. However, what bothered me about the foregoing
situation is the fact that Emily made this decision not on her own accord but under
emotional duress. I realized that deep down
there was a burning desire to aim higher but this was being extinguished by
fear and the constant echo of words pronounced by others who almost succeeded
in crushing this young woman’s spirits.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It cannot be right that one
person can destroy the hopes and dreams of another in this way. There is a popular proverb that says: <i>if you
can’t say good, say nothing</i>. People
should be careful what they say to others, for the tongue can destroy. Those who have been on the receiving end
should consider the Swedish proverb (Ingenting
under solen är beständigt) <i>nothing
under the sun is lasting</i>; let it go and live your life – treat their words as
<i>water on a duck’s back</i>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the absence of self belief we
can fall into the trap of unwittingly allowing other people to set our goals
and limits. If we have no one to inspire
us we risk focusing on our weaknesses and fulfilling the prophecy of those who
either lack intelligence or who do not wish us well. Do not
nurture your imperfection - look on what you have, not what you are lacking. Revisit your successes, learn from your
failures but do not dwell on them. We should never allow the words of others to
determine our actions or to carve our paths – our lives are for us to live and
sometimes others cannot appreciate the routes we take. In my session I had a very disillusioned
young woman who felt that she had no choice but to lead a life based on the
dictates of others. There is a Chinese proverb that says: <i>“the
person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person doing it</i>”.
Unfortunately my student lost focus because of that interruption which dented
her aspirations. She believed the lies
told by those who said she couldn't do it and she simply lost her way.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It is up to us to paint our self
portrait in a positive, progressive light.
We cannot rise above the person we think we are and if we fail to stand up
for something we will sit down for nothing, allowing other people to plan and direct
our lives. Attitude is a chosen position
– we can fulfil the wishes of others or we can ignore them and take
responsibility for our actions. Your dream is
planted in you, not in the minds of naysayers or people who reign in their
little kingdoms created for the execution of dreams. Whatever scar you may have
had from your past should not deter you from aspiring to a bright future. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sometimes the words of discouragement come
from people you love within your family or circle of friends. I was in a seminar last week and heard the
story of a fellow attendee who told the group that someone close to her had
made her life hell for the last few years because she had made a mistake. He simply would not let it go and he used
every opportunity to ensure that she didn't forget the incident. She explained that she was in turmoil inside
because although she felt that his actions were wrong she had internalised the
pain and it was making her ill. I told
her to set herself free, for no one is entitled to harass another to the extent
that she is so disturbed. We have a right to be hurt but there is no reason to remain
wounded. She should put an end to it
once and for all and consider what <span style="background: white;">Eleanor
Roosevelt said -</span> <i><span style="background: white;">Nobody can
make you feel inferior without your consent</span></i><span style="background: white;">. She should stop giving him
consent.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I had to take similar steps in my life
- I got to a point where I had to make a decision that I would not allow my
mother to upset me anymore. For several years she constantly got on my nerves
for reasons beyond my control. She
provided me with all the material things I needed and funded my education but
there was no demonstration of love. As
an adult I returned the favour – providing for her as required and ensuring
that she was not lacking in any way. However
it came to a point where I had to establish my boundaries in terms of my
relationship with her, keeping her out of my personal life and sharing no sensitive
information with her. We shouldn't apologise for protecting our hearts; this may be difficult for some but when
you learn to love yourself it is surprisingly easy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As leaders of organisations we also
have the responsibility to foster self belief in those we manage. Do we empower our staff, give them autonomy
and encourage them to set their own boundaries?
Do we interpret their assertiveness as aggression? We have to be careful particularly when
working with young people as we need to ensure that we play our part in the
development of their confidence and growth within our organisations and otherwise. Life is not a passive experience; if you just
go with the flow you will survive but chances are you won’t thrive. Sometimes we fail but that does not matter,
for it is in the face of failure that we appreciate success. Do not use your staff’s failures to embarrass
them or crush their spirits. Develop the
ability to make corrections and then let them go; don’t dwell on their mistakes. Actively look for the good in the individual,
nurture it and it will grow. Help them
determine their own future and allow them to explore their creativity. Make them accountable for their actions
as well as their inactions. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2pt;">As leaders we too must believe in ourselves – we have to
believe in our ability to lead our organisations and believe we can
succeed.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2pt;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2pt;">Most importantly we have to
believe that we are worthy and adequately equipped for the task.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2pt;"> </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2pt;">The
depth of your belief and the strength of your conviction determine the power of
your personality.</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2pt;"> (Brian Tracy).</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2pt;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2pt;">If
we believe in ourselves as leaders, our staff will believe in and rally behind
us, helping our organisations to weather the storms and grow stronger, for the benefit
of the whole.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Self belief leads to self
confidence.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">If we believe in ourselves
we will develop confidence and be able to tap into our innate abilities and unleash
our potential.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Never let anyone define
your goals; no one can be better at being you, than you yourself.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Be your own man, believe in yourself!</span></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-31036063635630176472013-12-16T20:35:00.001+00:002013-12-16T20:35:44.276+00:00Blooming and Planting<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="WordSection1">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Last weekend I spent some time calling a few friends with whom I had not made contact for some time.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">One of the ladies I spoke with – Elaine – was </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">explaining how frustrated she had become because, although she was grateful to be employed, she felt that she was being forced to forego her dreams in order to focus on less rewarding work.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">During our conversation I learnt that she wanted to start her own business - teaching English to non-native parents of primary school children.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> In her current job she provides classroom support for disabled children, enabling them to access the curriculum. Elaine wanted to start her business several years ago but her personal circumstances did not allow and she had to put her plans on hold.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As I listened to Elaine I realised that she was missing
an important fact – she has not deviated from her course; in fact she is actively
paving her path. She fails to see that by acquiring experience of supporting
disabled children she is developing skills that will enable her to work better with
her chosen target group. Not only will
she be able to teach English to parents but she will also be able to empower
them to proactively contribute to the education of their children – disabled or
otherwise. Elaine is perfectly
positioned to develop skills that will widen her repertoire and enable her to
offer practical help to parents, particularly those with challenging/challenged
children. She will develop added value
and be able to carve out a niche for herself providing a unique service. There is a Spanish proverb <i>“no por mucho madrugar amanece mas temprano”
(rising early won’t make the sun rise any sooner).</i> Take
your time, be methodical and things will fall into place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As I thought about her situation it occurred to me that
very often we fail to appreciate emerging opportunities because we can only see
our ultimate goal. We think that if we haven’t achieved it by X time we would
have failed and society would judge us harshly.
The fact is, we are the ones who are judging ourselves and demotivating
ourselves unduly; people who matter do not spend time watching and judging
others – they focus on things that are more important. It is right to pursue your aspirations but
there is no single, tried and tested route to success. The fact that you desire to go from A to B
does not mean that you have to go in a straight line; indeed you may find
yourself being diverted to C and D or even to E before you eventually arrive at
B. We can’t always plan how we live our
lives – our experiences along the way will dictate the steps we take. Given the same raw materials different people
will embark on different paths and
achieve dissimilar outcomes – that doesn't mean that they are wrong. Take for example the numbers 3 and 2. If I were to ask for an equation using those
two numbers (in their positive or negative form) what would I get? Following are some possibilities: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; margin-left: 62.1pt; mso-border-alt: dotted windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt dotted windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt dotted windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="border: dotted windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: dotted windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 127.6pt;" valign="top" width="170">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
3 + 2 = 5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
3 – 2 = 1<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
3 x 2 = 6<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
3 ÷ 2 = 1.5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
2 ÷ 3 = 0.66<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-3 + 2 = -1<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-3 – 2 = -5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-2 + 3 = 1<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: dotted windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: dotted windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: dotted windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 127.55pt;" valign="top" width="170">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-2 - 3 = -5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-2 – (-3) = 1<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-3 - (-2) = -1<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
3 ÷ (-2) = -1.5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
2 ÷ (-3) =
-0.66<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-2 ÷ (
-3) = 0.66<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-3 ÷ (+2) = -1.5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-2 x (-3) = 6<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: dotted windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: dotted windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: dotted windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 127.6pt;" valign="top" width="170">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-2 x 3 = -6<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-3 x 2 = -6<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
-3 x (-2) = 6<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
3 + (-2) = 1<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
2 + (-3) = -1<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
3 – (-2) = 5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
2 – (-3) = 5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
3² = 9 <b>AND</b> 2³ = 8<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Until I experimented with these numbers I didn't realise that there were so many possibilities (and there may be others that I have not discovered!) We don’t know everything - there are always other ways, even when we think that our options are exhausted.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It shows that you should never give up - chances are you could discover that important difference that everyone else overlooked and you’ll be able to develop your unique selling proposition and create a niche for yourself. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Don’t get frustrated because you are not where you want to be today – while there is life, there is hope.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Life is a journey, at times may seem stormy but always remember that cloud lined with silver.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Keep planting, especially when you are not blooming!</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Keep giving – to yourself the gift of knowledge and to others whatever they may need, especially when you think that you have nothing to give.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Keep ploughing and you’ll reach deeper depths where you are likely to find dearer treasures.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There is a Jamaican proverb that
says – <i>it’s never too late for a shower
of rain</i>. Don’t panic because you are
getting older and haven’t yet achieved your dreams. Look at where you are and see how it can position
you to get to where you want to be. Celebrate your achievements - yesterday and
today are building blocks for tomorrow but only you can decide whether you will
multiply your opportunities, or divide them.
The past helps you prepare for the future; it does not dictate the
future and you surely shouldn't dwell on it. As we journey through life we
focus on images we can see ahead through our large wind shield, though we glance
from time to time in our tiny rear-view mirror.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Many of us are working in areas
that are different from the subjects we studied - learning prepares us for
life; not just for a career. You gain
transferable skills that can be applied to a range of areas and it boosts your
marketability and appeal. Do not scoff
at opportunities presented; indeed see them as building blocks for the future
for you never know which block will become your chief cornerstone. Make the best of your current situation and
your future situation will make the best of you. There
will be moments when we are unhappy - take the bitter with the sweet, take a
step back and look for the opportunities lurking beneath the shadows.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One key principle in life is the importance
of setting goals. It orientates you,
gives you direction and something to aim for; it promotes growth. I can attest to this: some time ago as a young
professional I decided that alongside my work I would earn an average of one
certificate (academic or otherwise) per annum.
One year I received a certificate in drawing and painting, another year
I received one in poetry writing, and the following year I received a
certificate in Portuguese language.
Today my hobbies include oil painting; I have had my poems published and
won monetary prizes for poetry; and I have been head-hunted by a top UK
university to lecture on a Portuguese Translation programme. Knowledge is never
too much and we never know which doors it may open.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">How can people in business
encourage their employees to bloom where they are planted? Can we endeavour to inspire creativity and foster
a work culture that promotes growth, recognises effort and rewards
achievement? As business owners we too must
bloom where we are planted as we strive to maintain and improve our position in
the marketplace. Complacency has no
place in business for there will always be someone striving to overtake,
replace or obliterate you. As we build
our workforce we should promote learning organisations where employers and
employees alike are able to unleash their ingenuity and use their initiative to
produce quality and promote excellence. Do
not be afraid to support your employees in their quest for new knowledge; encourage
critical thinking, tolerate mistakes, allow autonomy – dare to let your employees
fly! Foster a culture that promotes collaborative decision-making; chances are
new avenues for business growth will be identified. In his book – Maverick! veteran
Brazilian entrepreneur Ricardo Semler advocates this kind of leadership and he empowered
some of his employees to become independent suppliers to his company.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Continuously be in pursuit of
knowledge, for learning is lifelong and i</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">t’s by expanding our horizons that we develop the confidence to reach
for greater heights. There is a Chinese proverb that says: </span><span class="firstword" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #232323; line-height: 115%;">Be</span></i></span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"> </span></i></span><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">not afraid of going slowly, be afraid only of standing still.
</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Let’s not therefore lament over our current position; instead let’s
use our condition to leverage our future; let’s keep planting and we’ll keep blooming.</span></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-27296577552671938382013-10-19T16:52:00.001+01:002013-10-19T17:27:45.377+01:00Love conquers all<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d;">Last week we had a vibrant discussion about
ethics at our dinner table.</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;"> </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;">The family
had watched a popular talent contest and saw where judges had suggested to
contestants in two groups that they disband as only one singer in each group
was deemed talented enough to continue in the contest.</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;"> </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;">In one case the split took place and in the
second the contestant refused to leave her bandmates behind, risking a
lucrative and potentially rewarding singing career.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The discussion at the table was
particularly effervescent because we had two distinctly opposite
positions. Some of us thought the contestant
that split lacked ethics and the rest of us thought that the one that refused
to separate and lost the opportunity to progress was silly. As I reflected on the scenarios it made me
think... what would I have done if I were in that situation?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It is human to feel rejected and hurt
in such situations but I believe that those who know the true nature of love
will suppress their personal pain and experience joy for another. There is a Chinese proverb that says: <i><span style="background: white;">Prosperity
makes friends and adversity tries them</span></i><span style="background: white;">. </span>Until we recognise the meaning of love,
and are willing to let others fly on our wings, and until we understand that
the benefit to the whole is more significant than the benefit to one, we will
not maximise our potential as a people. American professional basketball player
Michael Jordan demonstrates this well when he said: “I built my talents on the
shoulders of someone else's talent”.
Today Jordan is recognised not only as one of the greatest sportsmen
ever but also as a great philanthropist, donating millions to charity including<span style="background: white;"> $450 million dollars for Hurricane Katrina
reconstruction and assistance. </span>This
is a classic example of the French phrase <i>Tous
pour un, un pour tous</i> (all for one, one for all) rendered by Alexandre
Dumas in his classic - The Three Musketeers. <span style="background: white;">The
rise of one has benefitted the whole.</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br />
What would happen if instead of malicing the successful contestant her
bandmates were to support and encourage her?
I am happy when my friends excel for I too can share in their success. What is unfortunate is when successful individuals
“forget” their peers as they become caught up with life in the fast lane. It’s fine to have money but money shouldn’t
have you. Unfortunately some people develop amnesia as
it relates to where they come from and only remember when they come crushing
down, for nothing and no-one moves in one direction all the time. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As a people we often make the mistake
of trying to climb with others on our backs when in fact what would be better
is to climb alone and then reach down and help others up. Michael Jordan sums it up beautifully when he
said:<i><span style="background: white;"> “To be successful you have to be
selfish, or else you never achieve. And once you get to your highest level,
then you have to be unselfish. Stay reachable. Stay in touch. Don’t isolate”. </span></i>Too often we allow ourselves to be
blackmailed and sent on guilt trips when it comes to our own success; we find
ourselves apologising for achieving excellence.
Could it be that our bandmates/brothers/friends have different talents
which they must identify and pursue themselves?
It’s fine to love singing but if you are not talented in that respect
could you not support someone who is?
Chances are you would be better off working with animals, children,
numbers or trading in the City. Nobody
is void of talent; if we take some time to reflect and develop self awareness
we will discover our passion and find out what makes us tick. Sometimes it is
staring us in the face but we fail to see it or we don’t acknowledge it – what
do you have in your hands? There is no
point trying to live someone else’ dream for it is not ours to live. Everyone must dream for himself and run his
own race and sometimes it’s a lonely road.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I have a friend who tells me that I am not
good at accepting compliments. He says
that I tend to brush it off and change the subject. I thought about it and realised he could be
right. I am not proud of that behaviour
for it shows that I am not confident in my ability, I don’t recognise my value
and I take no credit for my efforts. I
too must stop trivialising my achievements, stop apologising for excelling and focus
instead on developing and showcasing the talents I have been given. We have to recognise that it is not a bad
thing to succeed. As far back as I can
remember I was never happy with my success if the people I love didn’t succeed
as well. I recall at the age of 11 when
I passed the exam to enter high school my parents were over the moon but I was sad
because all my friends had failed. I did not understand how to celebrate
success in the presence of failure. Now
I know better; now I understand how to experience success and in turn help
others to achieve. Don’t apologise for
your successes – make them work for the greater good!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">As people who run organisations we need
to consider: do we celebrate the success
of others in the workplace? Do we foster
and encourage a culture where people are free to be creative? Do we grant our workers autonomy - holding them
accountable and responsible for their actions?
Business owners must be able to recognise talent and nurture it so that individuals,
as well as their businesses, can thrive.
Don’t spend time sweating the small things - micro-managing people, punishing
failures. Focus instead on tapping into your
employees’ innate abilities and find ways to discover and appeal to their
passions. There is a </span><span style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Ugandan Proverb that
says: <i>A leader's handbag is never completely empty.</i> What tools do you have in your bag to help
you unleash creativity and motivate your staff? Do you compete with or are
threatened by your staff’s ability? </span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"> Take
time to get to know your employees and discover their hidden talents. How many
times have we seen organisations hiring new workers when individuals with the
required skills sets are already employed within the organisation?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">There is a Jamaican
proverb that says: <i>If yuh back monkey im wi fight tiga</i> (literally, if you back a
monkey he will fight a tiger) - when people are supported and encouraged they
will climb mountains hitherto unimagined. B</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">uilding a strong support network around
you provides a safety net so that if you fall, there is someone strong enough
to catch you. One person can’t have a party so why would you want to be alone
at the top? Life is a cycle, indeed a circle – going
around and coming around again; we don’t know where we will be tomorrow. H</span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">elp people to shine
and develop their talents; chances are, the light they emit will bring you
warmth and brighten your way. There is a
Greek proverb that states: <i>a society
grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit
in.</i> Leave a legacy! Don’t focus on
what you as an individual stand to benefit; after all you are being shaded by trees
planted by people you have never met.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Love conquers all!</span></div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-5435660121460614352013-08-13T21:45:00.000+01:002013-08-13T21:45:31.040+01:00There’s no Time like the Present<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">A few weeks ago a friend Rob asked me
to accompany him to see his cousin George, a 50 year old man who was suffering
from lung cancer. Although they lived a short distance apart, the cousins had
not seen each other for over 20 years.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Last week George had a barbecue and
invited his friends and family and according to Rob he ate, drank and smoked
all afternoon. Today George died peacefully in his sleep. Apparently
he was well aware of his diagnosis but concealed it from his family who had no
idea he was so ill. He didn’t want to worry anyone; he simply
embraced his fate and decided to go out with a bang! </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">What I want to focus on is not George’s
acceptance and defiance of death but the fact that he and his cousin who
apparently were buddies in their early years, lived in such close proximity of
each other yet, although both able-bodied, they never made the effort to meet up
and hardly communicated over the years. It makes me wonder about the
effect of time and space on human behaviour. What kept them apart
for so long – technology, stresses of life, family demands, economics, time
pressures? Rob has many regrets for now he has realised that he lost
20 years that could have been spent more meaningfully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Indeed he will spend more time planning his
cousin’s funeral than he spent with him over the last 20 years.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">I have seen so many people who want to
take action – start a business, write a book, pursue higher education... So
often they put off embarking on their aspirations, waiting for the perfect
moment. As far as I am concerned, today is as good as any other day; tomorrow
I’ll be older, not necessarily wiser, perhaps weaker. <span style="background: white;">Haruki Murakami</span></span><span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> - renowned Japanese writer summed
it up nicely when he <i>said</i></span><i><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">“Unfortunately, the clock is
ticking, the hours are going by. The past increases, the future recedes.
Possibilities decreasing, regrets mounting.”</span></i><span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">We all know of people who die
prematurely for one reason or another. Procrastination is a thief of our time
and we need to recognise its agents – people, places and things that create a
lot of noise around and cause us to lose sight of our goals. I don’t
want to leave this world regretting what could have been; I want to think I made
the best of the time I had.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Many years ago at my first job I was
secretary to a highly educated, skilled and experienced public servant - Mr
D. Ever so often he would complain about the monotony of his job, the
pittance which was his remuneration, and how unappreciated he
felt. I recall I was 19 years old when I suggested to him that he
looked further afield and considered his options. He responded that
he had to wait for his pension, for he couldn’t just walk away after so many
years of service. Mr D retired on full pension some 20 years later,
slightly early because of ill-health. Shortly after his retirement
he indicated to me that he was starting a business that would empower many disadvantaged
people and he would pay me good money to manage the venture for him. I
assisted in fine-tuning the business plan but explained I was not available to
manage the project. He had identified/developed a great model and I
could feel his enthusiasm – he had gotten his mojo back! He
subsequently paid me frequent home visits often unannounced and at times
before 7:00 am to discuss the project – he was so excited! Two years
after his retirement Mr D died. Just as he had started to live, he
died - dream unrealised. He had stifled his aspirations for so long,
awaiting a pension which was barely enough to cover his bills and remaining in
a job that contributed to his illness and eventual demise. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Apart from the
effect of time-wasting agents we are faced with the issue of
fear. Too many of us are afraid of failing but if you think about
it, you can fail your way to success - many people do. There is no
one who is truly successful who can say they have never experienced failure –
it comes with the territory. When that happens, just pick yourself
up, dust yourself off, let the nine day wonder pass and try
again. Success delayed is not success denied; sometimes we need more
time to learn and prepare ourselves to handle success. Some efforts
seem to go in vain but often there are lessons to be learnt. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Sometimes you have to be
bold! Don’t apologise for your dream and don’t let people make you
cry. If you feel you can do better, chances are – you can; don’t
spend your life merely existing in silent agony, bitterness or
frustration. It’s great to be humble but excessive humility and
submission will not earn respect for your dream. Understand that you cannot
have it all at once; that sacrifice will need to be made but if you are
determined enough nothing can stop your dream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s better to die trying than to live wondering what might have been.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">For those who have taken the step of
setting up business, consider... what could you be doing today that you have
kept postponing? In my case it is market development – taking our services
to a wider audience, including overseas markets. As business leaders
we often find ourselves chasing the pennies while the pounds are getting
away. There is a Jamaican proverb that says: <i>Fry the
big fish first, the little ones after</i>. We have to prioritise so
that we do not spend our time engaging in activities that add little value,
while more significant opportunities slip away. Are there activities
that you could outsource or employ someone to do, even on a part-time
basis? Can you find a volunteer or a trainee to help? Too
often we run behind our business, allowing it to run us (aground) instead of us
running it. Don’t be like my former boss who allowed other people’s
business to run him into the ground, leaving no time to pursue his own dreams. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Yesterday is history - let’s learn from
it; tomorrow is not guaranteed, today is the best we have; there is
no time like the present!</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669094907166197756.post-46856360712522054722013-05-16T23:27:00.002+01:002013-05-16T23:27:46.146+01:00Opportunity Knocks, and not Just Once<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Earlier this year I received a call from my friend Helen who
had been frantically job-hunting for some time.
She told me that as soon as she had booked and paid for her holiday the
ideal job opportunity came up. She was
absolutely distraught, having to choose between losing hundreds of pounds and
making herself available for an interview which had no guarantee of success. Eventually she chose to take her holiday as
the fare was already paid and was non-refundable. Three days after her return she received correspondence
from a large corporation about a job. In
fact she was being head-hunted based on work she had done and reference from a former
colleague.<span style="background-color: white;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Life is full of uncertainties and often things do not go the
way we choose. We cannot package our
wishes into a little box and pick them out when convenient; indeed we are faced
with many unknowns and we have to make decisions the best way we can. Helen was disappointed because she thought
she had missed the opportunity of a lifetime.
Now she is pleased she did not get that job for the latter opportunity is
a new <span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">role
which carries a more attractive remuneration package and allows her to be
creative.</span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"> The first opportunity doesn't have to be the right
opportunity! Consider the Swahili
proverb: “<i>To run is not necessarily to arrive”.</i> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Don’t worry about missed opportunities
for there will be others; what is important is that we recognise and take them
where possible. Lily Tomlin has an
interesting take on this: “</span><i><span style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Don't
be afraid of missing opportunities. Behind every failure is an opportunity
somebody wishes they had missed”</span></i><span class="bodybold"><span style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">. </span></span>Sometimes we have to create our
own opportunities – step out in faith, self belief and determination; that is
what many successful entrepreneurs do.
They do not always make the right decisions, in fact they sometimes make
very poor, ill-informed decisions but they do not wallow in self pity or
regret. Successful people understand failure
for they all experienced it at some time during their journey. <span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-bidi-font-family: "Goudy Old Style"; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">There is no point beating
yourself up about decisions you have made; we <i>win some and we lose some.</i></span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">
</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Too often we are derailed in our aspirations by detractors
who focus on our failures and encourage us to stifle our dreams and lead
mediocre lives. They attempt to
extinguish the fire that burn within us, for deep down we always know that we
can do better. We have to take chances
and understand that not every decision will be the right one. Don’t
believe the voices that highlight your mistakes for there is no perfection in
life. Having self belief, passion and the
will to succeed will carry you through. Don’t sit on the sidelines and allow
yourself to be washed up because you are focusing on your mistakes or are too scared
to take risks. Your past prepares you
for your future; it is not there to deter you from progressing. Maybe you didn't finish college, or you messed
up your relationships, had addictions, squandered your money or got caught up
in crime. Quit focusing on the past for <i>while there is life, there’s hope. </i>The Spanish puts it like this: <i>nunca es tarde si la dicha es buena</i>
(it’s never too late to do well). You
still have an opportunity to make a difference!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yesterday I was driving to an event
and was relying on the satellite navigation system to guide me. I missed the exit and couldn't turn around instantly. The GPS system simply recalibrated and
allowed me to capitalise on the next opportunity. I realised that not only did I have another chance
to get to my destination in good time but I had also learnt an alternative
route. Missed opportunities can be a
source of knowledge; learn the lessons and use them to enrich your repertoire and
add value to your life experience. We
all get off the right track at some point, whether literally or figuratively
but what is important is that we recalibrate and get back on track. Wallowing in regret results in wasted, uneventful, unfulfilled
lives which, although exist, never truly live. Don’t worry about where you've been; think more about where you are going. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In business too we are faced with missed opportunities. In our decision making processes we grapple
with choices which may come back to haunt us if they turn out to be wrong. <i>To err
is human</i> (Alexander Pope). Business
people must take remedial actions - not dwell on their mistakes but take steps
to reduce or eliminate any adverse effect.
Not every opportunity that presents itself will be a great opportunity; for
example - business owners have to make decisions on who to partner with, which
company to outsource to, which deals to pursue or accept. We cannot assume that everything that comes
our way is for the taking for <i>not
everything that glitters is gold</i>. We
have to ensure that our business activities do not clash with our values and
that any relationship developed does not bring our organisations into
disrepute.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We are here to live our lives abundantly. Don’t live your life feeling unworthy
despite what you did or what has been done to you. Forgive yourself and forgive others, for nothing
that may have happened in the past is so bad that it must deny you your bright future. Look up and get up! Forget about addictions, vices,
embarrassments, trouble with the law - bury them and take the new opportunities
that life brings. Create your own
opportunities too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="tab-stops: 148.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In Helen’s
case the missed opportunity was just that – a missed opportunity. Chances are your earlier
opportunities would have enabled you to compete with chickens; in fact you may
even have become Mother Hen. How does
that compare with the opportunity to soar with eagles? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="tab-stops: 148.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="tab-stops: 148.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">If you are feeling broken because of bad
decisions, past failures or missed opportunities, turn that mess into a message
and remember:</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Opportunity knocks and
not just once!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="tab-stops: 148.5pt; text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Andrea Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342648752422912502noreply@blogger.com0