Just give a minute of serious consideration to each of these three ideas to boost your influence, your grace under pressure and your organization’s ability to thrive in an uncertain future.
When you've read them, ask yourself, “How can I use these ideas to get a better result today?”
1) Increase your INFLUENCE by acting on this:
"The only way to change their behaviour is to change your behaviour in relationship to them."
That’s what I believe Gandhi meant when he said you need to be the change you want to see in the world. And if you're not (yet!) a Gandhi? Read a sample chapter of my book, Committed Action: the three-step method to inspire your people to take ownership and get results. (You'll find free resources and a diagnostic quiz as well).
2) Build your GRACE UNDER PRESSURE by perceiving events like this:
"The basic difference between an ordinary person and a warrior is that a warrior takes everything as a challenge while an ordinary person takes everything as a blessing or a curse."
This is why I’m working with an A-Team of former soldiers at Sandhurst to help senior business leaders face hard realities and respond with positivity and vitality. If this sounds interest, listen to this podcast with my friend and partner in this initiative, former paratrooper Sean Bacon, or email me.
3) THRIVE IN AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE by making sure you’re following this immutable truth:
"The rate of learning on the inside has to be faster than the rate of change on the outside."
So how fast is your learning loop? Those of your managers? That of your front-line? That of your organization? Learn about the methods I've taught executives at Oxford and at innovative organizations such at The Advanced Propulsion Centre UK in my book, Start With What Works: a faster way to grow your business. Follow the link for a sample chapter and further resources.
P.S. In case you’re interested, here’s a brief note on the sources of these ideas. which are very powerful, and if you know about them – which many business people don't – very practical. 1) comes from the work of behaviour study pioneers such as the Gregory Bateson, Paul Watzlawick and colleagues at the celebrated Palo Alto Group 2) is from Carlos Castaneda 3) has been stated by many ‘masters’ in many ways, ranging from Reg Revans – pioneer of organizational learning, Jack Welch – legendary CEO of GE and John Boyd – maverick dogfighting instructor and strategist who inspired a lot of people who didn't always give him credit.