Author: sushamak@verizon.net

A tree develops deep roots and a sturdy trunk when it bends and sways in strong gusts of wind.  Agricultural research studies the presence/absence of wind on the stability/fragility of a tree.   Trees planted in biosphere greenhouses and protected spaces grow rapidly but then tend to fall over. Trees growing in open spaces that have weathered harsh drafts of wind over time are likely to stay standing. They are less susceptible to wind damage as they develop stress wood. They have grown pliant and supple. The role of wind in cultivating hardy trees is essential.  

Continue reading “Anti-fragility: Learning to Bend”

You are deeply engrossed in your task at work or home.  You push your own limits to keep doing what you are committed to (work responsibility), or what you love to do (personal hobby).  You are with your head to the grindstone, and nothing is going to detract you.  Until you realize the sun has set on the horizon, your hunger pangs are now loud gurgling growls, your vision is hazy and blurred, and you are totally spent with sheer exhaustion.

Continue reading “Taking a Break: Wimpy or Wise?”

Reva was recently promoted to a new leadership position which came with the responsibility of managing 12 people who came from different organizations, varying degrees of capabilities and outlooks, and differing levels of motivation to work with her as their lead.  Her looming concern was the reluctance, indifference, or worse, hostility she faced from them.

Staying focused on the concern, agonizing and having sleepless nights over it was doing her no good.  She wanted to prove her worth and her leadership capability.  She wanted to start with a fresh outlook, instead, she was exhausted with low motivation even before she got started.  This did not bode well for her. 

Continue reading “Influence: Your own Circle to Create”

Recently, while attending a Hindustani Classical music program, I was mesmerized by the melody created by the artists. Both tabla (percussion) and sitar (string) artists were responding to each other, keeping pace with each other’s tempo, developing a raga through improvisation. When the vocalist joined to create a trio, he set the stage, “Hindustani Classical Music is so spontaneous, let us see where this takes us.” 

Indeed, each was masterful in his own execution, each was attending to the other’s rhythm, each added his own variation, creating a unique heterophony. They had the audience swaying to the music, in complete rapture.  They made eye contact with each other, listened, and performed as a team.  They were in alignment.

Continue reading “Alignment: Values in Sync”

Happy New Year!  As you usher in 2025, with new resolutions, a fresh perspective, and renewed energy, chomping at the bit to rush out of the gate, I invite you to pause.  Yes. Amidst the clamor of artificial intelligence, digital savvy, and external resources that make your heart race, take a moment to step back, tap into your reserve of internal resources and turn your gaze and attention to your true self.  Ask yourself if you wish to step out into the world bringing your authentic self forward, be it at home, work, or social settings. 

Continue reading “Authenticity: Your True Essence”

If you have hiked in the woods or been on a safari you may have seen a deer poised with one forefoot raised, ears upright and nose pointed towards the source of ‘sensed’ danger.  Its intuition tells it that there is a potential threat in the vicinity.  It may not have identified the menace, but it knows to be on guard and alert others in the herd as well. 

Continue reading “Intuition: The Hidden Treasure”

A ship’s captain is confident in his ability to navigate his vessel with expertise and proficiency.  He stays poised at the command deck overseeing his domain with singular self-assurance.  He is secure in his vast knowledge and years of accrued experience.  At the same time, he holds a healthy respect for the vagaries of nature and the unpredictability of the mighty ocean.  

Continue reading “Confident Humility”

I cannot count the sweaters, scarves and baby blankets I have knit over the years, when in the process I made mistakes: dropped stitches, cast on extra, replaced purl with knit, to name a few.  To undo the work meant unraveling yards of yarn.  You are left with chaotic spools of wool that you have to gather and wrap into a ball, only to knit all over again.  It is painstakingly laborious and demotivating.  You do it anyway to create a good product.  Others stare in disbelief, “You are doing what”?!     

Continue reading “Unravel, Unlearn, Rethink”