This is generally the time of the year when a spate of articles appear that talk of the trends most likely to appear for 2023. Three friends of VIM Executive Coaching, quite independently, may be signaling a new trend for the coming year. However, a word of caution may be in order: we doubt this “micro trend” will make it to major business reviews or new stations.
Looking for a new path
Of the three executives, one is a CFO with a staff of 200+, another is a computer systems architect and the third is an entrepreneur who owns an insurance and financial services agency as well as an online financial planning business.
In speaking with them over the past week (again, independently), they are re-visiting ancient Eastern philosophical books, returning to mindfulness meditation and are involved in some sort of community service. The efforts are not accidental, but intentional. The have told us they are seeking a new path but why? In our conversations with these wonderful individuals (along with existing VIM Executive Coaching clients) we have identified at lease five reasons as to why they are re-visiting ancient philosophies and mind-body practices:
- Workplace changes have brought increased stress. They are looking for more ways to de-stress.
- They want to live a less-digital existence; fewer keystrokes; more real.
- They are tired of social media and want the real socializing that can only come through greater mindfulness and authenticity.
- They want a shift of mindset to a more hands-on existence.
- They enjoy the physicality and body connection that comes from meditation, Yoga, Tai Chi and other practices.
There is a common theme that runs through the comment posted above. It is a desire for real connection; the reach-out to one another in times of sweeping change (that sometimes occurs solely for change’s sake).
Looking at the “buckets” from above, if the past few years have taught everyone little else it is that stress is at an all-time high. Many executives privately share how overwhelmed they are with the demands of “communication,” while what they long for is to respond to staff and staff issues – and not have to jump with reaction. Interestingly, though many clients who come to see us are gym-goers or hikers or (the lucky ones) swimmers, the calm they feel after meditation and similar practices seems incomparable. Indeed, gym settings are often settings of ego and impossible demands, where Tai Chi or Yoga are inward reflected and progress is made from within.
Ancient philosophies
VIM Executive Coaching never pushes “the way,” and we never want to tell anyone what or how to believe. However, we do know that when executives feel grounded and mindful, as did the ancients, they can act on what is, what needs to be changed, and how to best bring about the connections that can transform change.
It is a bit surreal when executives who operate in hi-tech spaces talk about philosophers, monks or Zen thinking. However, it seems to work.
Real connection is a lifeline through change, where change coming from change is confusing and unobtainable. We don’t know if this desire for true connection based on ancient wisdom will be seen as a major trend, yet we can’t imaging any trend for 2023 fully succeeding without connection.