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Name of author Rick Baker, P.Eng.

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Thought Tweet #408

by Rick Baker
On Feb 8, 2012
Thought Tweet #408 Ego is the part of the mind that causes us to do what feels good to us or looks good to others.

 

The Thinking Behind the Tweet

That's a Spirited Leaders' definition. Some say Ego is a flaw. For example, if I understand him accurately, Eckhart Tolle considers Ego to be a pain body that really provides no benefit. [And I have a great deal of respect for Eckhart Tolle.] I think Ego is a valuable piece of the human condition but it is only valuable when people self-monitor and self-regulate to make sure Ego stays within boundaries of moderation.

Tags:

Beyond Business | Definitions - Spirited Words Defined | Thought Tweets

Talk About PRESSURE

by Rick Baker
On Feb 8, 2012

In science classes they teach PV=nRT.

As the Pressure goes up so does the Temperature.

Put another way - under pressure, things heat up.

Sometimes we see that in business. When the pressure is on, say because of a major-deal deadline or a market crash, people can get hot under the collar...or get all steamed up...or crack under the pressure.

When business pressures rise, some people do better than others. Some people seem to perform their best when the pressure is on. Others seem to perform their worst. 

How might we predict whether or not a person will handle pressure well?

How might we help people improve their handling of pressure situations?

Here are a few of thoughts...

Personality assessments, for example D.I.S.C., give 2 results:

  • the person's 'natural' personality
  • the person's personality we are likely to see when that person is 'under pressure'
And, 'programs' are provided to help people understand the different types of personalities and how to adjust actions to communicate better with each different style. [I know this does not do justice to the assessments...I am just trying to provide a concise introduction.]
 
I have found these assessments are of some value, however, I have not seen many people who have received lasting benefits. I believe the assessment reports are too lengthy and too complicated for most people...people find the amount of follow-up work daunting. So, they don't do it.
 
Dr. Sian Beilock wrote a book called CHOKE. That book presents some counter-intuitive points, which are definitely worth considering. Specifically, I agree it is dangerous to assume a high IQ is a benefit when it comes to working under pressure.
 
Another important area must be considered: innate Talents and personal Strengths. There should be no question, people do better when they are operating in their Talent & Strength zone. During the last 2 years, we have found STRENGTHSFINDER assessments to be very well received and very helpful.
 
It is clear - Leaders can help others do a better job of preparing for and handling business pressure.
 
And, today, this is a responsibility Leaders must take on.
 
 
 

Copyright © 2012. W.F.C (Rick) Baker. All Rights Reserved.