My work is informed by a personal philosophy developed through years of teaching Mindfulness and Wellness practices. Here is the lens through which I see the world and consult with others. These ideas are successfully applied in coaching/training individuals as well as organizations.
1. Change is the only constant. This ancient principle is more evident today than ever. (As the Zurich Insurance tv ad demonstrates, “Because Change Happens”). Success depends on understanding this truth; but recognition is not enough. To see the world with fresh eyes, to be flexible in times of adversity or when stuck, as well as at peak points, builds self reliance, enables leaders to guide others and overall, to enhance flow.
2. Its not Us vs Them. We are interdependent human beings, connected to each other. Our global economy, technological advances, ecological change all reinforce this, another ancient principle. Actions and thoughts effect the greater whole. Leadership becomes an act of service. Leading is a conscious effort to contribute to order and organization.
3. Learning to be present, aware and in the moment establishes a best practices approach to people and situations. It enhances Social Awareness, a factor of Emotional Intelligence. The ability to respond in a genuine, authentic, conscious manner emerges from the quiet within.
4. Utilizing whole brain functions expands capabilities. While left brain strategic planning has been the hallmark of smart business, the ability to access right brain capacities of intuition and creativity are essential in the 21st century. Recognition that right brain functions support Emotional Intelligence factors is the next step in developing and maturing these qualities to meet dynamic changes in the workplace.
5. Insight, creativity, both are benefits of Mindfulness. This practice slows the busyness, allows the mind and body to rest, reflect. Experience shows that in this state, ideas, creativity, ah has bubble up.
6. Awareness (both self and social awareness) emerge out of reflection and introspection. Additionally it strengthens personal motivation and self regulation, essential developmental factors of Emotional Intelligence.
7. Surprise teaches perspective. Whether the surprise is a windfall or difficult hardship, we learn to temper thoughts of how how it ”should” be, to realize the way things actually are. This isn’t complacency, its working with what exists, rather than being stuck in the “shoulds”. Surprise keeps the broad perspective in context. Taking it one day at a time is really what its about.
Resonating with these principles offers the world a brighter future. These values are not all inclusive, but can establish a starting point for conversation.
Sometimes we are forced to change. These forced changes come to us as a negative situation where we have to deal with. We hate this, we are afraid of it. But then after dealing with it, all of a sudden you see that this bad thing is one of the best things that happened in your life. Is it the “thing”? Or was it you, that was forced to step out of your rusty patron?
Thanks for your comment! I agree, fear can be a motivator. In hindsight, maybe every situation is neither negative or fortunate. It about our reactivity. (I want that, I don’t what this). If we challenge ourselves to release old styles of thinking, conditioned responses we let go of some of the fear. Your website’s home page photo of skydivers illustrates this really well! pb