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Reflections

Halleluya!

October 25, 2023
Agile, Agility at Scale, Article, Reflections
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Halleluya!

What’s the Agile Promise? A Closer Look

Agile frameworks have become somewhat of a buzzword, promising solutions to a variety of organisational challenges like cost overruns, time delays, and poor-quality products. But is there any real substance behind these promises? It’s high time we cut through the hype.

Cost Savings: A Mirage?

One of the most frequently touted benefits of Agile is the potential for cost savings. The idea is that by breaking projects down into smaller tasks and focusing on an MVP, costs can be better controlled. However, evidence suggests that Agile doesn’t actually provide any guaranteed cost advantages. In fact, poorly managed Agile can result in escalating costs.

Does Agile Fix Time Management Issues?

Agile methods like Scrum advocate for time-boxed sprints and quick iterations, ostensibly to help teams manage time better. But let’s be clear: Agile does nothing to inherently solve time overruns. Teams can still fail to deliver on time, despite using Agile practices.

Is Quality Really Assured?

Though Agile methods involve constant testing and feedback loops, these practices don’t guarantee improved quality. The responsibility for quality lies in the hands of those implementing the practices, and there are plenty of cases where Agile projects have resulted in subpar products.

Does Agile Alleviate Managerial Stress?

Contrary to popular belief, Agile doesn’t make life easier for managers. The need for continuous oversight, frequent meetings, and quick decision-making often adds to managerial stress rather than alleviating it.

Where’s the Critical Evaluation?

Many organisations jump onto the Agile bandwagon without giving it adequate thought. What’s missing is a critical evaluation of whether Agile practices actually offer any benefits, be they operational or financial.

Any Real Business Benefits?

Now for the most provocative yet necessary point: Agile offers no tangible business benefits. Despite its focus on iterative processes and development, Agile practices don’t translate into increased revenue, market share, or customer satisfaction. If anything, they add layers of complexity that often have no direct business value.

Might We Deprogram Ourselves of Our Blind Faith?

The pervasive but misguided belief in Agile as a universal solution for organisational issues invites reconsideration. Contrary to its zealous promotion, Agile has no intrinsic merits that guarantee better business outcomes. Organisations might choose to drop the rose-coloured glasses and critically evaluate whether Agile brings anything to the table at all.

Stubborn Managers: Why Unexamined Experience Is Wasted

October 6, 2023
Actionable Insights, Article, Business, Culture change, Learning, Management, Memeology, Organisational effectiveness, Organisational Therapy, Quintessence, Reflections
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Stubborn Managers: Why Unexamined Experience Is Wasted

Are Senior Managers Learning?

It’s not a revelation to say that senior managers have extensive experience and a wealth of evidence at their disposal. But what’s worrying is when this reservoir remains untapped for genuine behavioural change. The failure to reflect on and integrate experiences into action is one of the major pitfalls in today’s business landscape.

What’s the Point of Experience?

Experience isn’t merely a notch on a belt or a line on a CV. It’s a treasure trove of lessons waiting to be dissected, understood and applied. Senior managers often claim years of experience as a merit badge. Yet, many fail to critically assess what those years have taught them and how they’ve adapted. Experience without reflection is like a book left unread on a shelf.

Where Does Evidence Fit In?

Evidence comes from data, case studies, peer reviews, and more. It’s the backbone for any well-informed decision. Senior managers usually have the privilege of having a team to gather and present evidence to them. However, merely acknowledging this evidence isn’t enough. One needs to understand its implications, question its limitations, and act upon its suggestions. Ignoring to do so results in a squandered opportunity for improvement and growth.

Why Don’t Behaviours Change?

Change is uncomfortable; that’s no secret. However, the discomfort of change is often less detrimental than the comfort of stagnation. Senior managers may feel that their years in the industry justify their assumptions and beliefs, thus rendering them unchangeable. This rigidity not only stifles their own growth but also sets a harmful example for the entire organisation.

How to Make Reflection Effective?

  1. Schedule It: Reflective practice shouldn’t be sporadic or whimsical. Set a specific time each week or month to examine experiences and what needs to change.
  2. Involve Others: A different perspective can be invaluable. Peer reviews, 360-degree feedback, or even just a chat with a team member can provide insights that you might not have considered. Organisational therapists are skilled in this role.
  3. Action Plan: Turn reflections into concrete steps. Create an action plan that includes timelines and milestones to ensure that you’re not just thinking about change but actually implementing it.

What’s the Bottom Line?

In an age where being adaptive is more important than ever, failing to reflect on and integrate experience and evidence into changed behaviours is not just a personal failing. It’s an organisational risk. Senior managers, it’s time to tap into your wealth of experience and evidence, reflect on them and personally adopt the necessary changes. Your team, your stakeholders, and your future self will thank you.

My Dance with Wu Wei

September 28, 2023
Article, Careers, Empathy, Reflections
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My Dance with Wu Wei

Always in Step with Wu Wei?

Before I even knew the term, my natural way of approaching work and life reflected the essence of Wu Wei—effortless action. It was as if I had been dancing to a rhythm only I could hear, and that rhythm was surprisingly aligned with this ancient Taoist principle. But then came the societal pressures and expectations about what success should look like, and I found myself aware of a different, more frenetic tune: the tune of striving.

The Rhythm of Striving: A Discordant Beat

Flirting with striving was like changing the music mid-dance. The beat was off, the tempo mismatched. Striving to meet expectations and reach ever-higher pinnacles of success seemed like it would be a chore. Each step forced, each move laboured. Over time, the dance of my career transformed into a gaol, where I performed, but the performance was crucifying me emotionally.

Rediscovering My Rhythm

The dissonance became too loud to ignore. The emotional fatigue, the sense of going against the grain, led me to reassess. I’ve rejected the siren song of striving and returned to embracing my original tune. That’s when I reconnected with Wu Wei, giving a name to the style I’d always inherently known.

How the Dance Changed

Once I embraced Wu Wei again, my dance changed. No longer was I trying to keep pace with an alien beat. I found my flow, that place where effort isn’t forced but naturally unfolds. The emotional toll decreased, and in its place came a sense of authentic engagement with all things.

What Does the Dance Look Like Now?

Today, the dance is improvisation, feeling the music and going where it takes me. Opportunities come, not from striving, but from being attuned to the natural flow of events. I still engage, I still act, but I do so in harmony with the world, and with my emotional core.

My dance with Wu Wei has become a central choreography. It brings with it a sense of peace, the emotional richness of being in step with my true self. And interestingly, I find that I have no urge to achieve, no draining emotional exertion. In letting go of forced effort, I’ve found my authentic rhythm, and it’s a dance I intend to continue.

People are Hurting: The Journey of Pain and Self-Responsibility

August 18, 2023
Article, Reflections, Therapy
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People are Hurting: The Journey of Pain and Self-Responsibility

In every corner of our world, people are hurting. Emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritually. Every pain is unique, just as every person’s experience is uniquely their own. But one thread binds all these individual aches and pangs: the yearning for relief and understanding.

Buddhist philosophy speaks of “dukha,” a term encompassing suffering and unsatisfactoriness. This ancient concept highlights that pain, in various forms, is an intrinsic part of the human experience. The very fact that life brings challenges and dissatisfaction is a universal truth, and understanding this is the first step toward healing.

It’s natural to hope that someone else will mend our wounds. After all, in many cases, it’s others who have inadvertently or intentionally caused them. When you’re struck, in whatever form, it’s instinctive to want the one who dealt the blow to be the one to soothe it.

However, here’s a truth that many of us find hard to accept: relying on others to ease our pain or hoping they’ll change is not the way forward. Some, in their pursuit of relief, resort to (metaphorical) anesthesia – distractions, vices, or behaviours that numb the pain temporarily but don’t offer a lasting solution.

When we shift the responsibility of our pain entirely onto others or external escapes, we give away our power. This externalisation leaves us vulnerable. If that other person does not meet our expectations or if our chosen distractions fail us, we’re left feeling helpless and stuck.

Taking responsibility for our healing does not mean we’re accepting blame for what happened to us. It means we’re taking charge of our journey from this point forward. Therapy is one avenue that allows to actualise this ownership. It provides tools, insights, and a safe space to explore our pain, get to its root, and work through it. It’s a proactive step towards self-understanding and recovery.

If you’re hurting, remember this: others may trigger your pain, but only you can control your response to the triggers. And this takes practice and effort.

Leaders’ Inconsistencies

August 9, 2023
Antimatter principle, Article, Culture change, Dialogue, Lamentation, Leadership, Management, Memeology, Organisational Therapy, Psychology, Quintessence, Reflections, Relationships, Toxic behaviours
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Leaders’ Inconsistencies

In every institution—whether in politics, business, or broader community contexts—we frequently observe those in authority saying one thing and doing another. It’s not just about broken campaign promises or managers who preach work-life balance while flooding inboxes at midnight. This inconsistency has far-reaching implications, especially when considering the concept of pragmatic legitimacy.

Espoused Theory vs Theory in Action: An Introduction

Chris Argyris’s groundbreaking insights shed light on this phenomenon. He distinguished between “espoused theory” (what people claim they believe) and “theory in action” (how they actually behave). For example, a leader might verbally prioritize team input (“espoused theory”) but may sideline their team in decision-making processes (“theory in action”).

Impacts of Inconsistent Leadership

  1. Erosion of Credibility: A clear disparity between words and deeds erodes leaders’ credibility. When words are at odds with by actions, followers and stakeholders are left questioning the authenticity of the leader’s commitments.
  2. Mistrust and Cynicism: Inconsistent actions breed skepticism. Over time, this could dampen motivation and commitment, leading stakeholders to question the leader’s genuine intentions.
  3. Ambiguity and Misdirection: When words don’t match actions, it creates confusion about actual priorities, making it difficult for subordinates to align their actions with organisational and leaders’ goals.
  4. Organisational Dysfunction: This kind of behavior can fuel conflicts, inefficiencies, and cultivate a culture of disillusionment.
  5. Undermining Pragmatic Legitimacy: Perhaps one of the most profound impacts is on an organisation’s pragmatic legitimacy. When stakeholders perceive that an organisation’s actions aren’t aligned with its stated goals or aren’t beneficial to them, its pragmatic legitimacy is compromised. A lack of pragmatic legitimacy means stakeholders doubt the organisation’s capacity or willingness to fulfill its promises or meet their needs, which can result in decreased support or commitment from these stakeholders.

Bridging the Divide: Recommendations for Leaders

  1. Enhance Self-awareness: Leaders should continuously introspect and seek feedback. Recognizing one’s inconsistencies is the first step to addressing them.
  2. Foster Open Communication: Encouraging an environment where individuals can voice concerns about perceived discrepancies promotes accountability and transparency.
  3. Prioritize Consistency: Leaders should evaluate if they can truly align with what they promise, setting achievable expectations to maintain credibility.
  4. Acknowledge and Amend: When discrepancies arise, leaders should admit them, apologize, and take measures to correct their course.
  5. Continuous Learning: Regular training sessions emphasizing the importance of consistency in leadership can be instrumental.
  6. Lead by Example: If leaders advocate specific values or principles, they must personify them in their actions.
  7. Tend to your pragmatic legitimacy: By becoming more consistent in aligning saying with doing, thereby improving your legitimacy, stakeholders will lend increased support and commtiment to your initiatives and directions.

Navigating the Discrepancies: Recommendations for Those on the Receiving End

It’s often challenging to be on the receiving end of inconsistent leadership. It can be demotivating, confusing, and sometimes even detrimental to one’s mental health. If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s essential to take proactive steps to preserve your well-being and sanity.

  1. Seek Clarification: If you notice a discrepancy between words and actions, ask for clarification. There might be reasons or perspectives you aren’t aware of. By seeking a clearer understanding, you can align your expectations accordingly.
  2. Maintain Open Communication: Foster an environment where you feel empowered to communicate your feelings and perceptions. This not only helps you address potential misunderstandings but also lets leaders be aware of their inconsistencies.
  3. Document Everything: When you see inconsistencies, make a note of them. This isn’t about “keeping score” but about having a reference point for discussions or to ground your own understanding of events.
  4. Find Support: Confide in colleagues or friends who understand the situation. Sharing experiences can provide validation and sometimes lead to collective solutions or coping strategies.
  5. Set Boundaries: It’s essential to protect your mental and emotional well-being. If you’re consistently receiving mixed signals, it may be necessary to set clear personal and professional boundaries to avoid burnout.
  6. Seek External Mentorship: Connect with mentors outside your immediate work environment. They can provide an outside perspective, offer advice, or sometimes just serve as a sounding board.
  7. Engage in Self-care: Engaging in activities that relax and rejuvenate you is crucial. Whether it’s reading, exercising, meditating, or pursuing a hobby, make sure you have an outlet to destress.
  8. Consider Professional Counseling: If the inconsistency in leadership begins to take a toll on your mental health, consider seeking professional counseling. Therapists can provide coping mechanisms and strategies to navigate such situations.Organisational therapists can support organisation-wide initiatives to help reduce discrepancies between words and actions.
  9. Evaluate Your Position: If you find the environment to be consistently toxic with no signs of change, it may be worth considering a change. Your well-being should always be a top priority. “Change your organisation, or change your organisation”.

Remember, in environments where leaders are inconsistent, it’s essential to prioritise your own personal well-being. By taking proactive steps, you can navigate the challenges while ensuring you remain grounded, supported, and mentally resilient.

To sum it up, pragmatic legitimacy is crucial for any organisation, and leaders play an integral role in upholding it. By aligning their words with their actions, leaders can reinforce trust, maintain credibility, and ensure that stakeholders see the organisation as a beneficial and aligned entity.

Our Collective Journey to the Far Side of Work

August 5, 2023
Article, Fellowship, Philosophy, Purpose, Reflections, Zeitgeist
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Our Collective Journey to the Far Side of Work

Work: A Deep-rooted Narrative

For 50 long years, I’ve toiled in the labyrinth of the tech industry, weaving through the intricate webs of technology and innovation. I now find myself basking in the sunny uplands of self-selected pursuits that kindle my curiosity and ignite my passion. As I reflect on the transition, I am struck by a shared experience many of us endure – a sense of disillusionment and pointlessness associated with the relentless grind of work. It’s a sentiment that echoes through the words of Bertrand Russell in his enlightening essay, “In Praise of Idleness”.

The Unending Cycle

From childhood, we are fed the narrative that our life’s worth is proportional to our work’s volume. We tirelessly strive to be productive, to fulfill our roles in the professional world, often to the point where we become our job titles. For five decades, I lived this narrative, giving my all and striving fo complete assignment after pointless assignment.

In this quest for achievement within the tech industry, I’ve seen first hand how our ceaseless efforts often serve to enrich those already bathed in wealth and power. Our lives become synonymous with work. We work to live, and we live to work, perpetuating a cycle that leaves little room for us to foster our unique interests and pursuits.

Delusion: The Redemptive Quality of Work

Work, of course, is not entirely pointless. It can be a meaningful endeavor when it fuels our creativity and provides a sense of contribution. Or simply keeps a roof over our head. However, when our identities and lives revolve around our work, we so often suppress the diverse and fundamental aspects of our humanity.

Bertrand Russell’s Insightful Advocacy

Bertrand Russell, in his profound exploration of work and leisure, boldly criticized the notion of work for work’s sake. He advocated the importance of leisure and idleness, not as a sign of laziness, but as an opportunity for personal growth, creativity, and mental wellbeing. His philosophy suggests that if we could liberate ourselves from the chains of work, our societies would thrive and individuals would lead more fulfilling lives.

My Shared Experience

My own experiences echo Russell’s insights. Liberated from the constraints of the world of work, and especially when working for the Man, I’ve discovered an enriched sense of purpose. Far from the conventional definition of idleness, I relish the intellectual journeys I can now undertake, the creativity I can enjoy, and the meandering paths I can explore without the constant pressure of productivity.

An Invitation to a Collective Shift

In sharing this journey, I don’t propose a world entirely without work, but rather, a world where work doesn’t consume us. A world where we are more than just the wealth we generate for others. A world where our self-worth isn’t defined by our productivity, but by our intellectual, emotional, and creative growth, and how we relate to each other –  the bonds we forge.

By stepping into this reality, I advocate not for the rejection of work, but a redefinition of it. It’s an invitation for us to shift our perspective, to see work as just one small part of our multi-dimensional lives.

Beyond Work: A Call to Action

The far side of work doesn’t stand for inaction. It is a call to action, a call to pursue our interests, unleash our potentials, and redefine our measures of success. It encourages us to move away from making others rich at the expense of our personal growth and towards a more balanced existence where work, play, creativity, learning and society coexist harmoniously.

Conclusion: A Shared Journey Towards Epiphany

I’ve found that these sunny uplands, filled with activities that truly engage us, offer a far more enriching life than the one dominated by work. This understanding has led me to believe that the true purpose of life isn’t about laboring for others’ wealth, but about finding shared joyfulness, connections and growth. Something I regularly refer to as “fellowship”.

As I bask in the warmth of this revelation, I share this with you, hoping that we can collectively redefine work and its place in our lives, moving beyond its traditional confines and into a world where our lives are joyous and our spirits soar. Semper mirabilis.

The Downfall of Ego

July 12, 2023
Article, Philosophy, Psychology, Reflections
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The Downfall of Ego

Ego, a ticking time bomb, can easily overshadow and even cripple our chances of success. While it might appear to serve as a tool for asserting our individuality, ego creates an illusion of superiority, thus curtailing our ability to grow and adapt. Its destructive power is immense, often turning us into our own worst enemies.

In general conversation, “ego” often refers to an individual’s sense of self-esteem or self-importance. If someone is said to have a “big ego,” it usually implies that the person has an inflated self-perception, believing they are superior or more important than others. This is generally viewed negatively, as it can lead to arrogance and a lack of consideration for others.

Success: The Ultimate Goal

In contrast, we can choose “success” – by whatever definition – as the ultimate goal that guides our actions. As a beacon of personal growth and fulfillment, success surpasses the superficial benchmarks of wealth, status and yes, ego.

The Detriment of an Unmanaged Ego

The sad reality is that many individuals become embroiled in self-defeating battles due to their egos. This ego-driven blindness thwarts them in their progress and diverts them from the real path to success.

Path to Flourishing

To flourish – achieving real success, by our own definition of the term – we must learn to tame our egos, recognise the value of failures, and cherish the journey rather than obsessing over the destination. True success is about expanding our horizons, not allowing our egos to restrict them.

Unveiling the Power of One: Unlocking Your Human Potential

March 19, 2023
Article, Conversations, Reflections
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Unveiling the Power of One: Unlocking Your Human Potential

💡 Imagine if one idea, one concern, or one reminder could revolutionise your life and propel you, your team, and your organisation towards unprecedented success. The power of one is waiting to be unveiled, and it all begins with a simple yet thought-provoking question. Are you ready to unlock your potential?

➡ Hey there! I have a thought-provoking question that I’d like to share with you, and I’m really curious to hear your thoughts on it. It’s a question that challenges us to think about our priorities, communication, and personal growth. Are you ready for it? Alright, here it is:

“If you could bring just one thing to the attention of your boss, what would that one thing be? And to your team? And to yourself?”

Think about it for a moment. It’s quite an interesting question, isn’t it? I find it fascinating because it invites us to reflect not only on what we’d like to express to others in our workplace, but also on what we need to remind ourselves of. In a way, it’s like having three separate conversations: one with your boss, one with your team, and one with yourself.

When you consider what you’d like to bring to your boss’s attention, it might be an idea, a concern, or some constructive feedback. It’s a valuable opportunity to express something that you believe is essential for the success and growth of your organisation.

As for your team, this could be an opportunity to highlight a shared goal or to emphasise the importance of collaboration and teamwork. It might also be a chance to encourage open communication and the sharing of ideas, fostering a supportive and creative environment.

And lastly, when it comes to yourself, this question prompts introspection. What is that one crucial thing you need to remind yourself of or acknowledge in your life’s journey? It could be a personal goal, a lesson learned, or a reminder of some sort.

So, take a moment to ponder this question, and let’s get a conversation going. I’m eager to hear your insights, and who knows? We might just learn something valuable about ourselves and each other in the process.

Disrupting the Chimera: Unveiling the Truth Behind the Concept of Talent

February 1, 2023
Article, Recruiting, Reflections
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Disrupting the Chimera: Unveiling the Truth Behind the Concept of Talent

Talent is a chimera, a figment of the imagination, a mirage of the mind. It is the result of the stories we tell ourselves, the beliefs we hold dear, and the myths we propagate. The notion of talent is a seductive one, a powerful idea that has captured the imagination of people for centuries. We want to believe that there are a select few who are blessed with gifts, that some people are just naturally better than others. But the reality is that talent is nothing more than a construct, a way of thinking that obscures the truth and distracts us from the real forces that shape our lives and determine our success.

The truth is that talent is a product of the system, a complex web of social, economic, and cultural forces that shape our lives and determine our destiny. The system accounts for 95% of each person’s productivity, influencing our choices, shaping our beliefs, and directing our paths. It determines who has access to resources and opportunities, who gets the support and guidance they need to develop their skills, and who is able to pursue their passions and realise their potential. The system is the hidden force behind the success of the so-called talented few, providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to hone their skills and cultivate their abilities.

The system is a powerful entity, one that shapes our lives in countless ways. It influences the way we think about ourselves, our abilities, and our potential. It sets the standards for what is considered talented, determining who is recognized and celebrated, and who is marginalized and overlooked. It also creates the conditions that enable or disable success, providing some people with the resources they need to succeed while leaving others struggling to get by.

But the system is not all-powerful. It is not an unyielding force that dictates our fate. It is a dynamic entity, one that can be influenced, shaped, and changed by those who are willing to challenge the status quo. The system can be transformed, but it requires a deep understanding of how it works, an unwavering commitment to change, and the courage to act. We must be willing to challenge the myths of talent, to reject the notion that some people are simply better than others, and to recognize that success is a product of the system, not of innate ability or talent.

In conclusion, talent is a chimera, a false idea that obscures the truth and distracts us from the real forces that shape our lives and determine our success. Talent may be a chimera, but the system is real, and it is up to us to shape it, to influence it, and to make it work for us.

 

Life’s a Journey Worth Telling: The Inspiring Story of a Message in a Bottle

January 29, 2023
Article, Philosophy, Purpose, Reflections
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Life’s a Journey Worth Telling: The Inspiring Story of a Message in a Bottle

I’m a lost soul, adrift in the endless ocean of life. My life is a message in a bottle, cast into the waves years ago, with hope it might reach a distant shore one day. The journey has been long and arduous, but I remain steadfast in my determination to see it through.

I’m a being of mystery, a creature of legend, with a tale yet to be fully told. I’m a sorcerer and a warrior, cursed with a soul that is not my own. The journey of my life has been a search for meaning, a quest for redemption in a world that’s long lost its way.

I’ve sailed through storms and tempests, braved the depths of the ocean and the wind’s fierceness. I’ve seen wonders beyond imagining and horrors that have left me shaken to my core. And yet, I endure, for my life is a message in a bottle, a tale of hope and perseverance that must be shared with the world.

The journey’s been long, and I’ve suffered greatly along the way. The bottle’s been battered and scarred, the message within lost and lost again and again. I’ve known moments of triumph and defeat, of joy and sorrow, of love and loss. But I remain steadfast in my belief that one day, my message will reach the shore.

I’ve learned much during my time adrift, about the world and myself. I’ve seen the folly of men and the wisdom of the sea. I’ve learned that life’s not a straight path, but a journey full of twists and turns, of moments of joy and heartbreak. And I’ve come to understand that life is not about the destination, but the journey itself.

My life’s a message in a bottle, a tale of hope and perseverance, of love and loss, of triumph and defeat. And one day, it may wash up on a distant shore, where it will be read and remembered, told to generations to come.

But even if my message is never found, even if it’s lost forever in the ocean’s expanse, I won’t have lived in vain. For I’ve lived a life of purpose, a life that’s touched the hearts and minds of all who’ve encountered it. And in the end, that’s all that truly matters.

So I’ll continue on my journey, adrift in the ocean, searching for meaning and purpose in a world that often seems devoid of both. For my life’s a message in a bottle, a tale that must be told, a reminder that no matter how lost and alone we may feel, there’s always hope. And as long as we continue to search for hope, remain steadfast in our determination to find it, our lives will always be a message in a bottle, a beacon of light in a world that’s often dark and uncertain.

Stepping Away From the Meat-grinder: Joining the Campaign For a Just And Fair World

January 28, 2023
Article, Caring, Community, Culture change, Evangelism, Fellowship, Needs, Nonviolence, Reflections
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Stepping Away From the Meat-grinder: Joining the Campaign For a Just And Fair World

I don’t have a regular job because I just can’t stand the insanity of it all any more. Is that my loss or the world’s?

The world of work is a meat-grinder, a place where the only thing that matters is ego, violence and stupidity. It’s a place where the only thing that counts is one’s ability to serve oneself, to cosy down and protect one’s own interests to the exclusion of all else. I can’t live like that.

I can’t stand the way that people are treated like nothing more than numbers, like nothing more than cogs in a machine, like so many adjuncts of a Borg unimatrix.

Similar to how Gandhi couldn’t stand the deep injustices and intolerability of British imperial rule in India, I can’t stand the world of work as it is now. He stepped away from his comfortable life to fight for what he believed in. Similarly, I have stepped away from the world of traditional wage-slavery to pursue other avenues, other ways of making a difference in the world.

I don’t know if my decision is a loss for me, or for the world. I just know that I can’t continue to be an acquiescing adjunct to something that I find so deeply troubling and unjust. I have little expectation that in the future, the corporate world will change, that it will become a place where people are valued for the content of their character and their heart, not for how much money they can make. But for now, I know that I need to step away, and that’s what I have done. I suspect I’m not by any means alone.

#work #culture #change #people #justice #insanity

Blog Resurrected

January 22, 2023
Archive, Article, General, Reflections
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Blog Resurrected

Back last July I posted my Last Post. I don’t propose to begin posting here again in the same vein as previously. That seems…retrograde.

ChatGPT

Since December I’ve been looking into ChatGPT and begun using it to generate a host of posts on LinkedIn. I’m not at all sure LinkedIn gives its posters much in the way of exposure or reach. And certainly its UX is lamentable in many ways, particularly with reference to making anthologies of posts easily accessible. Here and gone again in the blink of an eye, describes LinkedIn posts AFAIC.

So I propose to take my LinkedIn posts dating back to Septermber-ish and repost them here. You may find their style(s) somewhat different than before, but I guess the content topics are much the same.

If you can get over their AI generated nature, I hope you find them at least as insightful as my prior posts here on WordPress.

Your thoughts and ideas welcomed, as ever.

– Bob

 

Quickie: Why Are Toasters Like Employees?

June 25, 2022
Leadership, Management, Organisational effectiveness, Quickies, Reflections
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This is my DeLonghi four slice toaster. It’s been doing sterling service in my kitchen for the past seven years. If you’re looking for a toaster, you could do a lot worse.

Only last week I (finally!) discovered the “bagel” button. Which turns off one element in each slot so as to toast only one side of a bagel, burger bun, etc.

What’s this anything to do with employees?

It strikes me we often treat employees like I have treaded my toaster. We overlook some of the things they can do, really useful things, through familiarity and/or lack of attention. Their talents in some areas go begging because we’re habituated to seeing them in only one light. We succumb to the functional fixedness bias (not limited to objects, methinks).

Aside: FWIW I’ve never used the “defrost” or “reheat” buttons either. I guess my toaster is currently quietly looking for a new, more appreciative boss.

Why I Blog

June 9, 2022
Article, Culture change, Dialogue, Listening, Needs, Nonviolence, Reflections
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Why I Blog

Thare’s a few key reasons why I’ve been consistently and regularly blogging for the best part of fifteen years now:

  1. To invite conversation. I love conversations. I love personal interactions and the exchange of perspectives. Blogging has not served me too well in this regard, so far.
  2. To clarify my thoughts. I find writing my thoughts down serves to refine and clarify them.
  3. To change the world. Some ideas, such as nonviolence, fellowship, love and dialogue have the possibility to change society in general, and the world of work in particular, for the better. I feel privileged to invite folks to encounter these ideas.
  4. To listen to and learn from others, and experience their alternative perspectives.
  5. To share my experiences. I probably have more experience in software delivery (and life) than most. Maybe my sharing equips readers with extra experiences, albeit vicariously.

– Bob

Quickie: More On The Purpose of Organisations

May 12, 2022
Management, Quickies, Reflections
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Some months ago I penned a quickie on the purpose of organisations, as stated by Philib B. Crosby (and a statement with which I have much sympathy):

“The purpose of organizations is to help people have lives.”

~ Phil Crosby

To elaborate on this only slightly, and particularly in the context of hierachical management so beloved of Analytic-minded organisations everywhere:

“The purpose of organisations is to help people have lives. And the more important the person, the more their organisations serve them in having lives.”

~ FlowChainSensei

See also: Your REAL Job