Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.
[.source]Dr. Seuss[.source]
We once had a wonderful client at VIM Executive Coaching who claimed the finest books, she ever read in pursuit of her MBA studies were those by Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel). It was hard to argue with her logic one way or the other. However, we do know that executive leadership wisdom may be found from many non-traditional sources; wisdom is not the domain of those ponderous textbooks, mind-numbing PowerPoints or endlessly droning leadership podcasts.
Nevertheless, the quote from above about love or lessons learned or lost opportunities speaks to the heart of mindfulness.
What happened to the year?
While 2022 is not quite over, we know that for many executives it has been a year of turmoil and regret; triumph and anticipation. The year came – and nearly went, much like a strong wave. Some of us rode the wave, others were knocked down and never quite made it to their feet.
And, in the jumble of events and emotions, some executives decided to give up. We recently read an interesting business article, that was based on a recent poll, where it was stated that 20-percent of executives admit to doing the least amount of work possible. They are no longer engaged; for them it is “over,” they have no clear idea on where they are going, only where they have been.
It is a sad state of affairs when executive talent gives up. It speaks to regret, lethargy and perhaps, missed chances. Though the Dr. Seuss quote ends on an optimistic note, the thought that executives should smile through change and click their heals at misfortune is more than the fairy-dust stuff of Tinkerbell’s and Pollyanna’s. For we at VIM Executive Coaching find that life for many executives has become a string of dashed expectations and few alternatives for growth or a sense of working toward meaningful goals.
The so-called Great Resignation didn’t happen because executives were happy with their lot in life. It happened because they were never appreciated, had no sense of the ethical behaviors of their organizations – and in fact, despised their organizations for a lack of equity and justice.
Interestingly, those who have fallen into that world of disconnect, did not necessarily do so because of poor salary and benefits, but for a “hunger” to do something closer to their souls – if only they knew what that meant. Not surprisingly, many executives quit companies in a huff only to beg for a return or to join a similar company in a similar position.
The year passed many people by as they reacted to every challenge, but neglected to respond to it. They let the year pass by as though they were someone else, but not their authentic selves. They come to VIM Executive Coaching mystified as to where their careers were headed.
And, we understand
The problem with the Dr. Seuss quote is that it is missing a key word. Instead of “Smile because it happened,” it should have read: “Smile because it mindfully happened.”
Of all of the skills executives should be taught – and aren’t, of all of the life skills that aren’t explained, but should, mindfulness could be the most important. Mindfulness is the self-awareness so many executives lack. It is a cornerstone of our work as business coaches
Mindfulness, an ancient and yet, terribly important modern skill, prepares executive leaders to be open to change and to respond to it. Mindfulness wants us to be engaged with the world and not to be apart from it.
It is impossible to totally anticipate 2023, but it is quite possible to be a part of it, and to be actively engaged in it. It is an excellent place to start.