blog

The Hidden Wisdom of Those Who Refuse Power

In one of my previous organisations, a senior leader surprised us all by quitting his job and retiring the day he turned 50. We couldn’t imagine why anyone would make such a drastic decision. He was one of the most respected people in the organisation, and we were sure he was on his way to […]

Why Entrepreneurship Isn’t the Freedom You Think It Is

Do employed people think about being their own boss? I meet many smart, young, energetic individuals who are always wishing to own a business. Many of them work for good organizations and many have even built a side gig from something they are passionate about. This is no different to when we were young. The […]

A New Kind of Leader for a New World

In today’s world, leaders exhibit two distinct personality traits. One extreme exemplifies subservience or a compliant nature, chosen for the role due to their willingness to conform to those in positions of greater power or status. Conversely, the other extreme embodies self promotion, is ego centric – focuses on me, me and I, and often […]

The Digital Escape and the Reality We Avoid

I am not sure if everyone feels it, but I struggle living in two parallel worlds these days. When we exist in the digital world, life seems so easy. Food delivery services will bring you whatever you are craving for and E commerce suppliers will make things coming to your house very easy. You can […]

Beyond Success: Finding Meaning Through Inner Guidance

Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with senior leaders across various organisations, both in my professional career and now in an advisory capacity. These are outstanding individuals who, on paper at least, possess all the requisite attributes; prominent titles, significant responsibilities, and an outwardly successful demeanor. However, when you dig deeper, […]

From Careers to Crypto: The Rise of Speculation in Modern Life

The budget this year has made me think about where this world is going. Not that there was anything good expected from this meaningless annual exercise. From the casino-like world of crypto (now boosted by the highest levels of our government) to the pursuit of easy profits for a few through finance and real estate, […]

AI Is a Tool, Not a Replacement: Why Human Judgment Still Matters

Here is my attempt to understand Artificial Intelligence from a different perspective. The current debate about AI often focuses on its potential to automate knowledge work. It is assumed that AI will gradually replace human cognitive functions, eventually surpassing our capabilities in all areas. This seems to be correct as computational power, algorithm sophistication, and […]

From Amateurism to Excellence: Reviving True Professionalism

As a society, our culture wants us to conform and follow a laid-down path in life. Innovation requires breaking out of this, which means facing our worries about failure, criticism, and the potential negative impact on our careers. Here is an intriguing experiment; HR managers everywhere should record the start times of all meetings and […]

The Power of Stillness: How Quiet Moments Deepen the Mind

I was travelling the last few weeks – during the so called war in south asia. Since I could not fly back home nor could I help do anything about the situation, I got to spend alone time with myself without many distractions. I did not have to do anything; not perform for work, not […]

How to Recognize Integrity in Everyday Behavior

Human nature inherently leads us to give greater prominence to the thoughts we focus on. Consequently, it is crucial to refrain from sowing negative thoughts in others’ minds. Ideas remain abstract until they are articulated, whether verbally or in writing. The more time and repetition an idea receives, the more tangible and realistic it becomes. […]