ozplanhub

Gunslinger of Choice or Corporate Hired Gun

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 23:00:00 GMT

Does that headline and the following comment/question strongly resonate with you?

You are currently in the Corporate world self-reflecting with increasing frequency over your ambition to extend your professional career into the Boardroom world and speculating on how to successfully do it?

If so, then you will need to transform yourself from being a “ Corporate Hired Gun (CHG)” into a “ Gunslinger of Choice (GoC)", as the two roles while respectively important, influence changes and outcomes in different ways.

The next three questions will likely manifest repeatedly in your transformation journey, and I will only offer a contextually, simplistic view on each for your consideration –

What’s the difference between a CHG and GoC?

The CHG is a member of the organization’s executive team and is tasked to find viable answers to questions posed by others

The GoC is a Board member and is the one asking the questions

How does each influence changes and outcomes?

The CHG’s role is a combination of being primarily operationally focused with a strategic overlay

The GoC’s role is primarily strategically focused with minimal, if any, operational overlay

Why does it matter to your Boardroom aspirations?

As an operational executive, the CHG is engaged by only one organization at any given time and provides their operational value-add accordingly

As a strategic Board member, the GoC may be concurrently engaged by a number of organizations and provides their strategic value-add accordingly.

Everyone has an inherent quantum of unique talent, with ambitions to realize its full potential. However, only those who continuously strive with unwavering focus, dedication and appreciate that leveraging to advantage the collective wisdom of our earlier pioneers will succeed to their own personal satisfaction.

In closing, trust this helps you to clarify whether you are, at the start, end or somewhere in between, of the “Are you a Gunslinger of Choice or Corporate Hired Gun” continuum.

Gordon Seeto CPA

Recharging as Leaders: The Importance of Taking a Step Back

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 23:59:36 GMT

In our fast-paced world, the pressure to work harder can often overshadow the need to work smarter and maintain a healthy balance. As leaders, it's crucial to recognize when the demands of work are taking a toll on our well-being and the well-being of those we lead.

For many of us, me included, the fear of failure and the pressure to perform can be overwhelming. I used to dread speaking in front of others, consumed by thoughts of inadequacy and self-doubt. The constant striving for perfection left me drained and anxious, unable to fully enjoy the moment or appreciate my accomplishments.

But through self-reflection and reaching out for support, I came to realise that we were not meant to carry the weight of our burdens alone. By reconnecting with our emotions, thoughts, and physical well-being, we can better navigate the challenges of leadership and find joy in our work once again.

Taking regular breaks, practicing self-care, and reflecting on our experiences are essential steps in maintaining our mental and emotional resilience as leaders. By prioritising our well-being, we not only improve our own effectiveness but also create a healthier and more supportive environment for those around us.

If you resonate with these sentiments and are interested in learning more about cultivating resilience as a leader, I invite you to feel free to reach out to me directly for a FREE chat on the 4 Sources of Leadership. Remember, investing in your well-being is not only beneficial for you but also for the success of your personal and professional life, your team and organisation.

Pushpa Vaghela | Leaders by Design

Expanding on my Journey in Leadership | Ancient Wisdom

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 23:07:25 GMT

I wanted to expand on my journey in Leadership specifically around Ancient Wisdom, but first: An Update: We all are living in unique times, in the middle of life-changing circumstances and its great to be sharing leadership insights along the way to encourage and add value to you all during this period that we are currently healing through.

So far, well at least since the Virus hit us big time, 2020 hasn’t been what anyone expected on a global scale. The challenges of the past few months have left many people wondering if the world will ever break free from this period of hardship or even the long-lasting impact it will have for generations. There are signs that things are getting better, nevertheless, the effect that this situation has had around the globe will influence us all with lasting changes.

Moving along: Leadership isn’t a position that you’re appointed to, so often I get asked, “Pushpa are Leaders Born?’ Well everyone is born with their own geniuses and some may be better in their Leadership then others, however if these ‘natural born leaders’, are not consistent in their growth, they will become stagnant and that will impact all their followers by limiting their growth too.

Leadership can be taught and learnt, if you have the desire to embrace it, improve and develop the characteristics and qualities. EVERYONE and ANYONE is and can be an Exceptional Leader in Life. As you know, great Leaders, main priority for existence is to add value and create to develop new leaders and the fact is they cannot give what they don’t have.

Expansion on my journey in Leadership: It began when I was 4 years old, having been chosen as a role model in my nursery school to support other young people. Even today my life and leadership are shaped because of a decision I made over 4 decades ago to never stop growing and learning and to then invest my life in adding value and enriching others.

Through this time, I have had many masters and mentors guide my path to accomplishing great successes in life, corporate and in my organisations, however, I will always remember that through many dark times, my faith always shone brighter. My desire has always been to help develop others attain the right attitude, discover strengths, tap into their passion, so that they become more in touch with what they are designed for and can live better quality full lives

Pushpa Vaghela | Leaders by Design

Embracing Breaks: A Vital Step for Leaders

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 23:00:38 GMT

In the relentless pursuit of success, it's easy for leaders to become ensnared in the trap of overworking. We're often told to work hard, to push through challenges with unwavering determination. But what if I told you that constantly grinding away could be hindering your effectiveness as a leader?

The truth is, working hard without respite can drain the joy from your life and leave you feeling depleted. As leaders, it's crucial to recognise when the demands of work are taking a toll on our well-being – both for ourselves and for those we lead. I experienced this drain on my physiology, emotional and mental wellbeing as I ran 3 organisations that were needing additional operational support each day, to a point I was working 7 days a week non-stop, hence today I understand and mentor many clients that are going through similar circumstances.

Also, I'll be honest with you. There was a time when I grappled with the fear of public speaking. The pressure to deliver flawless speeches consumed me, leading to a cycle of self-doubt and anxiety. But through self-examination and seeking support from others, I came to a profound realisation that we are not meant to carry the weight of our burdens alone.

Connecting with our inner selves – our emotions, our thoughts – is paramount. It's about acknowledging our humanity and embracing vulnerability; Leaders know and acknowledge this. Taking regular breaks, carving out time for self-care, and engaging in reflective practices like journaling can work wonders for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

As Leaders, by prioritising our own self-care, we not only safeguard our health but also enhance our leadership capabilities. When we're grounded and rejuvenated, we're better equipped to inspire and empower those around us.

So, if you find yourself resonating with this message, I invite you to delve deeper. Reach out to explore the importance of embracing breaks in leadership. Let's embark on this journey of self-discovery and renewal together. Remember, by taking a step back, we can propel ourselves forward as stronger, more resilient leaders.

Pushpa Vaghels | Leaders by Design

Solving the "Meaningful Motto" Riddle

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 22:41:04 GMT

You may have a new business venture, or an established one, and any ”business expert” you may meet, will espouse that every successful business has both a brand, and a supporting creative tag, which timelessly endorses it in their chosen market sectors and greater general community.

You may then potentially expend an inordinate amount of time, energy and resources trying to create a " Meaningful Motto ” which informs the world about both your business and personal brands.

Whether you realise it, or not, often you actually already know what you want to say but putting it all into one succinct line of ten words, or less (which genius came up with that parameter), can be incredibly challenging, frustrating, distracting and dare I say it .. even depressing at times!

Further, the extensive history and "experts" you can access in your “Meaning Motto” quest can sometimes lead to even more confusion, rather than the clarity you need.

Consequently, after much "navel gazing" the desired “Meaningful Motto” outcome may seem even more distant than when you first started on this journey!

Here are some “ Tips and Tricks ” which you may find useful in establishing your " Meaningful Motto " -

Always trust yourself and your instincts, after all you got yourself to this position in the first place and you know exactly what you want to say
The input and/or advice, from anyone who cares to contribute, can't make the decision, only you can
Always keep your audience in mind (sound familiar but amazing how often ignored) as this is meant for them, not you, and what they see and interpret is biased by their own subjective experiences
Your primary intent is to get their attention in the first place and then encourage their interest in exploring more with you
Procrastination is perfectly normal, not abnormal, when you are trying to be creative and the benefit I got from a potential negative scenario, is it actually helps you to discard the "wannabe" options and focus on the "probable" ones
What you ultimately create may already be someone else's mantra, that doesn't mean it's not available or right for you, you just need to figure out how to say it in an original way
Test it out on your circle of trusted friends and colleagues, they probably represent a good spread of your potential audience and will give you good, constructive feedback, without prejudice, which will either confirm and/or help you further crystallise your thinking
How much effort, time, resources, advice and money you wish to spend is always your choice, don't let it become the torpedo which sinks your ship before it launches on this quest
Finally, you can always evolve it as the unknown future reveals itself, what you are trying to do is best position you and your business to take advantage of the opportunities as they present themselves today which is aptly summed up by my own “Meaningful Motto” .. “ Today Shapes Tomorrow – We Help Shape Today ”.

Putting these points into context for when creating my own " Meaningful Motto ", ie " Today Shapes Tomorrow - We Help Shape Today " -

Original theme … not necessarily … original wording … "YES”
Total time spent - approx TWO HOURS overall
Total cost to my business –

o Externally … ZERO $

o Internally … OPPORTUNITY COST OF MY TIME

End result … GOAL ACHIEVED and VERY HAPPY

If you found this article useful and would like some strategic help to achieving incremental business success, then please contact me at MD-Dakeyras@bigpond.com

Gordon Seeto CPA

Time – It’s Always Available

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 22:34:46 GMT

This four-letter word has been, and continues to be, the subject of endless debate depending on the context and the people in that debate.

It appears randomly or intentionally at some point in every conversation you may be having with others, on any subject.

Time has a quantifiable measure commonly accepted and uniformly adopted at every level of the world community, ie 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 52 weeks per year, etc.

It's a unicorn in that everyone personally and in business has 100% equal, unencumbered access to it and there is no other commodity in history that has this unique attribute.

To business it's both an asset and liability.

Utilisation is 100% possible from either side of the ledger. Productivity is how well or poorly you use available time to do what is required in your business
Billability represents the quantum of productivity you can monetise –

o The industry sector in which your business operates determines what you set as critical success factors for measuring time utilization, productivity and billability

For example in the professional services sector, 100% of available time can be utilized doing something each day, productive time actually achieving the designated client related work can range widely from, eg 20% to 90%, individually and/or collectively, and billable time equates to monetizing 100% of productive time recorded

o Therefore, how you set and measure productivity is a critical success factor in your professional services business

The question to answer is, what is the optimum productivity measure for your business

o Products based businesses use the similar time management concepts but their revenue generation is product dependent in terms of how much finished product they create and how much of it they can sell

Your sales price point is the other critical success factor but that's a subject for another time.

Trust this article helps you appreciate that effective time management is a foundation stone for your successful business.

Gordon Seeto CPA

Tips to effectively address a leader's failure to respond constructively

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 21:36:37 GMT

Reflect Internally.

Whether you are a leader, peer or team member, you only know what you know at any given point in time. It is a well proven cliche and those who are brutally honest with themselves in this respect, will truly appreciate how they may react in any given situation which tests their personal resolve, abilities and capabilities. This understanding encourages humility and humbleness in yourself, which in turn enables you to feel safe and comfortable to openly acknowledge areas in which you have no personal genius. as such, you will then actively seek and engage others who may have that required genius to constructively contribute towards successfully addressing your challenges

Empower Others

An engaged team will pro-actively value-add in any way possible, a disengaged team will only react when prompted which is far too late for you and your organization to be truly efficient and cost effective. Openly inviting your team and peers, to regularly contribute their views and ideas will provide significant context and perspective to the decision-making process or resolution of the issues/challenges being faced. In turn, this will lead to more optimal outcomes being achieved and personal ownership by all in successfully achieving them.

Seek Feedback

Nobody has all the answers when faced with their issues and challenges. Leaders are faced with this scenario constantly and recognizing your personal strengths and weaknesses enables you to build a team which complements them. The best leaders appreciate there is always something valuable to learn and while they are ultimately responsible for successfully addressing issues/challenges as they appear, their true skill and value is being able to facilitate an optimal outcome using all the talent and resources at their disposal.

Recognise Issues

Anyone aspiring to be a leader works diligently on constantly improving themselves during their journey towards that goal. Once they attain that goal, they will experience feelings of self-satisfied accomplishment, however, there may also a subsequent period of doubt and anxiety when they begin to appreciate that there is so much more they need to learn as the one standing at the top of the mountain. This realization can lead to introspective, defensive and avoidance behaviours which may be intentional or unintentional on their part. Reflecting on how you successfully overcame the challenges in attaining your goal helps you to understand that while it can be lonely at the top, you are not alone, and great leaders are also great followers.

Gordon Seeto CPA

CEO, Advisory Board Member, Business Strategist, Business Mentor, Coach and Management Consultant

Integrated Leadership

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 21:43:29 GMT

'When it comes to dealing with modern challenges of leadership, it can help to turn to ancient wisdom' - Lao Tzu

The ‘Integrated Approach’ we could say is ancient leadership wisdom delivered in a modern context.

This question confronts us in every moment and has been doing so for centuries, yet this question is asked as if it were brand new. Centuries ago, myths helped the Greeks learn to reject dictatorial authority and identify the qualities of good leadership. the same mythologies have lessons for us today, just as they did for the ancient great leaders centuries ago, i.e. the Greeks, Romans, Indian etc.

Steve Jobs wished he had met Socrates. Arnold Schwarzenegger is a Marcus Aurelius fan. Elon Musk leans toward Aristotle. Even if channel into our past Leaders, as it knows how they lead, is desperately what is truly needed today. This is an indication of truth that many successful people today are influenced and lead by dead people.

In the world, many Leaders are leading against a description of how-to lead. They have an element of fear to doing something different that is crucial in making a difference, especially following the current pandemic and economic situation. For example, can they come from the heart, are they genuine in valuing people, do they have a desire to grow, and do they really understand what true authentic leadership is?

The truth is many Leaders today is not wanting to grow, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and even physically. My findings showed me that people in leadership roles, which include leaders in the home, work, businesses, government, and organisational platforms, do not love or value themselves, then how can they extend what they don't have to others?

The idea of work/life balance for leaders has philosophical principles in Lao Tzu’s teaching on balance in life. This is a clear indication in my books that work/life balance is strongly linked to our emotions, mindsets, and our ability to love and respect the self to then extend that to others.

It is evident from my interactions from around the world that leaders who are seeking to look to the future by seeking wisdom from the past excellent accomplishers. I know that Leadership can only begin from within, as proven by successful leader’s past and present. And for that to happen you need to know yourself i.e. Know Thy Self.

“Study history, study history.
In history lies all the secrets of statecraft.”

According to Winston Churchill, there is much we can learn about politics by turning to the pages of history.

The past can show us how historical leaders and political forces shaped the world. Studying ancient emperors and powerful dynasties can teach us about courage, conflict, and community. Some ruled with aggression, while others led with empathy and kindness. Through these studies of character, we can see how people, economies and entire countries are affected by a leader's actions.

The integrated leadership is an emerging leadership approach that cultivates collective learnings from various sources to achieve the universal good. My Ideal is to teach this generation and the incoming leaders. To create Leaders of change that go on to ignite transformation across the globe

We know Emotions are the great drivers of humanity Its why history repeats itself. It’s a fact that Human nature hasn't changed, despite all the progress we've made. More so than ever Leaders in positions and even those not in positional leadership are turning to ancient manuscripts to question existing leadership.

One of the essential responsibilities of a leader is to set the bar of expectations and create accountability. One thing I have seen with emerging leaders across many aspects of business, family and professional life is a temptation to lower expectations at the first sign of struggle. Resulting in too many of us settle for being the second leader because it is more comfortable.

Don’t be afraid to have great expectations, if you are committed to helping others pursue their desires. Deep down, people want to improve, they want accountability, and they want to be held to a high standard. They also want to know you are on their side.

Where do you need to raise the bar for yourself and the people you lead? How can you coach them to clear that standard?

Quote of the Week: “Treat a man as he is, and he will remain as he is. Treat a man as he can and should be and he will become as he can and should be.” – Stephen R. Covey

Pushpa Vaghela | Leaders by Design

Embracing a Nature-Positive Future: Lessons for Australian Businesses

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 12:23:18 GMT

The global nature-positive movement is gaining momentum, and businesses across Australia are recognising the importance of integrating nature into their strategies and operations. OzPlan Hub, a leading platform for community sustainability, is committed to supporting companies in their journey towards a nature-positive future

As the effects of climate change and biodiversity loss become increasingly apparent, it is crucial for businesses to understand the risks and opportunities associated with their relationship with nature. By developing a comprehensive nature strategy, companies can not only mitigate potential risks but also unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Developing a nature-positive strategy requires a holistic approach that considers the entire value chain, from sourcing raw materials to engaging with customers. It involves identifying and addressing the impacts and dependencies on nature, setting ambitious targets, and collaborating with stakeholders to drive positive change.

One key lesson from global leaders in the nature-positive movement is the importance of transforming problems into opportunities. By viewing environmental and social challenges through a creative lens, businesses can develop innovative solutions that generate value for both the company and the planet.

Another crucial aspect of a successful nature strategy is stakeholder engagement. This includes collaborating with suppliers, customers, employees, and local communities to ensure that nature-positive practices are embedded throughout the value chain. By listening to and learning from Indigenous Peoples and local communities, businesses can gain valuable insights into sustainable land management practices and build long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships.

Investing in nature-based solutions, such as reforestation, regenerative agriculture, and ecosystem restoration, can deliver significant returns for businesses, biodiversity, and people. However, it is essential to take a holistic approach that considers social dimensions and prioritises the well-being of local communities.

Transparency and disclosure are also critical components of a nature-positive strategy. By assessing and reporting on their nature-related impacts, dependencies, risks, and opportunities, businesses can build trust with stakeholders and inform decision-making. Technology, such as AI and data analytics, can play a vital role in helping companies measure and manage their nature-related data.

As Australian businesses navigate the challenges and opportunities of the nature-positive movement, platforms like OzPlan Hub can provide valuable guidance and support. By sharing best practices, facilitating collaboration, and providing access to resources, OzPlan Hub is helping those in the NDIS space across Australia to embrace a nature-positive future.

The time for action is now. By aligning their strategies and operations with the principles of the nature-positive movement, Australian businesses can play a vital role in halting and reversing nature loss while creating long-term value for all stakeholders. OzPlan Hub is committed to being a partner in this journey, supporting companies as they work towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

ozplanhub

Gunslinger of Choice or Corporate Hired Gun

Does that headline and the following comment/question strongly resonate with you?

Recharging as Leaders: The Importance of Taking a Step Back

In our fast-paced world, the pressure to work harder can often overshadow the need to work smarter and maintain a healthy balance. As leaders, it's crucial to recognize when the demands of work are taking a toll on our well-being and the well-being of those we lead.

Expanding on my Journey in Leadership | Ancient Wisdom

Embracing Breaks: A Vital Step for Leaders

In the relentless pursuit of success, it's easy for leaders to become ensnared in the trap of overworking. We're often told to work hard, to push through challenges with unwavering determination. But what if I told you that constantly grinding away could be hindering your effectiveness as a leader?

Solving the "Meaningful Motto" Riddle

You may have a new business venture, or an established one, and any ”business expert” you may meet, will espouse that every successful business has both a brand, and a supporting creative tag, which timelessly endorses it in their chosen market sectors and greater general community.

Time – It’s Always Available

This four-letter word has been, and continues to be, the subject of endless debate depending on the context and the people in that debate.

﻿

It appears randomly or intentionally at some point in every conversation you may be having with others, on any subject.

Tips to effectively address a leader's failure to respond constructively

Reflect Internally.

Empower Others

Seek Feedback

Recognise Issues

Gordon Seeto CPA

Integrated Leadership

'When it comes to dealing with modern challenges of leadership, it can help to turn to ancient wisdom' - Lao Tzu

The ‘Integrated Approach’ we could say is ancient leadership wisdom delivered in a modern context.

“Study history, study history. In history lies all the secrets of statecraft.”

Quote of the Week: “Treat a man as he is, and he will remain as he is. Treat a man as he can and should be and he will become as he can and should be.” – Stephen R. Covey

Embracing a Nature-Positive Future: Lessons for Australian Businesses

“Study history, study history.
In history lies all the secrets of statecraft.”