Conflict in the workplace is something we all will encounter at some point in our careers. It is unavoidable when people work together. Conflict can be a source of stress and tension, whether in disagreement over how a project should be handled or a clash of personalities. I don’t know of any conflict-free workplace. The … Read more
In a world where conflict often seems to reign supreme, and leaders seem to revel in their power and ability to inflict destruction, peaceful leadership may appear counterintuitive or naive. As this blog is about leadership and personal development, I thought about how the business landscape is often portrayed as a battleground, where competition is … Read more
Today, I want to explore a scenario that many of us encounter at some point in our professional journey: finding ourselves in misalignment with senior leadership styles and values of our senior leaders. It is a challenge being a leader and navigating the complex terrain of organisational dynamics on the best of days, so when … Read more
I recently rewatched The Queen’s Gambit, a Netflix series that beautifully weaves a coming-of-age story of a young female chess player. It struck me that chess, in its strategic complexity, holds valuable lessons for leadership. In this week’s blog, I delve into these parallels, answering the question ‘What can chess teach us about leadership?’ and … Read more
With International Women’s Day (IWD) happening this week, I cannot help but reflect on the tangled web of promises and realities we, as women, find ourselves in. Since late last year, I have been questioning many of our national and international systems, laws and human rights, and while it is not typically what I focus … Read more
This week, I wanted to dive into a topic that is as relatable as it is frustrating: dealing with disappointment when our leaders don’t quite live up to our expectations. Whether in the corporate world, a community organisation, a school or a club, chances are you have experienced that sinking feeling when the people in … Read more
For my first post for 2024, I thought I would write about something that I have been reflecting on for quite some time and is something I think some of us struggle with more than others. Something that might seem counterintuitive in a world that often celebrates the word “yes” and the “hustle” like it … Read more
Growing up, the etiquette rulebook in many societies often said, “Don’t dive into sex, politics, or religion, especially at work or with new acquaintances.” The rationale is clear: these topics can be contentious and uncomfortable. Yet, as a friend wisely advised, even once familiarity is established, discussions must be approached with a learning mindset rather … Read more
I have been mulling over a rather vexing notion of late: What if the stalwarts of government agencies and the juggernauts of large corporations were to take a leap into entrepreneurship or embrace the dynamic world of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) at least once in their careers? What would they gain, and how better … Read more
Have you ever noticed how often women are told to “be more confident”? It’s a well-intentioned phrase – I am pretty sure I might have said that myself at one time or another. But it can carry some underlying assumptions about women’s abilities and self-esteem. The notion that confidence holds women back oversimplifies the complex … Read more