There was an exchange across a dinner table between a couple of Spartans, and one of them just remained silent. Eventually, the talkative Spartan says, “Are you OK? You have not said anything.” The first Spartan replied, “A stupid person wouldn’t be able to be quiet.”
I think that the ability to remain silent is a mark of not just a very self-disciplined person, but also a very smart and wise person. Remember that there are times when it is unwise to be silent as silence can arouse suspicion. Therefore, silence and saying less than necessary must be practiced with caution, and only applies to the right situations.
Behavioural data is valuable
Do you know your customer?
I think that there is a huge value in understanding behavioural data and the importance of understanding the “why” behind people’s actions. Behavioural data has more value when it proves that people bought your goods or services, rather than when it tells you what people intend to do. Data provides the “what,” but doesn’t provide the “why”. Data will tell you a story and the story it tells depends on the interpretation and the interpretation probably depends on something psychological. You can create value in the mind as value is only meaningful to the extent that it’s perceived, because if people don’t want what you have made then you haven’t created any value at all.
Knowledge sharing
Good communication is essential for conveying expectations, providing feedback, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive work environment. Leaders and managers should be able to communicate clearly, actively listen, and adapt their communication style to different individuals. I think the biggest communication problem is we don't listen to understand we listen to reply. Contact me via e-mail for an evaluation of your interpersonal communication skills.
““The most powerful person in the world is the storyteller.””
Leadership traits
I think leaders lead with…
Character
Confidence
Certainty
Communication
Conviction
Collaboration
Capabilities
Provocative and effective new messages
Yesterday, I attended the Presidents Summit in Copenhagen where many industry leading experts shared their knowledge on leadership, organisational change, and growth. Here are some of the most actionable insights from the speakers:
· Rasmus Bagger – “What we do, we will master the most!”
· Dan Ariely – “What are the downsides of measuring without thinking?”
· George Mumford – “The keys to unlocking personal greatness are self-reflection, response control amidst adversity, and fostering a conductive success mindset.”
· Jen Sincero – “Why do we need data, facts, and proof before we trust our intuition?”
· Jay Abraham – “Risk vs. Yield: Look at your business differently as overlooked opportunities can be found from outside your industry. How will you mine, monetise, and maximise them?”
· Leslie K. John – “Interpersonal trust is declining, and loneliness is a chronic problem. What am I not sharing what I could be sharing?
· Stephen M. R. Covey – “We are moving away from the old leadership methods of command and control into a new era where leaders will trust and inspire to drive peak performance.”
It was great to see leaders and managers being challenged to look in the mirror when something isn’t going to plan in their organisation’s.
““The bottleneck is always at the top of the bottle.””
Kindness is a strength
I think practicing kindness and humility allows us to grow as individuals as it helps us cultivate self-awareness. When we understand our own strengths and weaknesses while appreciating the value and worth of others is a manifestation of inner strength and confidence. And this nicely demonstrates that we don't need to tear others down to feel good about ourselves. Being kind releases endorphins, which boosts our mood and reduces stress. Numerous studies have shown that acts of kindness can improve our mental and physical well-being. It also enhances our sense of purpose and fulfilment, contributing to overall happiness and satisfaction in life.
An influential SCARF
Every time we interact with someone, we are either meeting or depriving them of their social needs. The language and behaviour we use can either be uplifting and motivational or it will cause them to shut down and withdraw. In 2008, David Rock concluded in his neuroscience research paper "SCARF: A Brain-Based Model for Collaborating with and Influencing Others." The SCARF model introduced us to five key domains that impact people's behaviour and emotional responses in social situations.
Status – our relative importance to others.
Certainty – our ability to predict the future.
Autonomy – our sense of control over events.
Relatedness – how safe we feel with others.
Fairness – how fair we perceive the exchanges between people to be.
According to the SCARF model, these factors are considered to be fundamental to human motivation and can greatly influence how individuals perceive and react to different situations. I think the specific measurement of the SCARF model may be challenging, even though it provides a framework for understanding the important aspects that influence human behaviour and motivation.
Do you believe in magic?
Most businesses today lack the vision to optimise for changing human behaviour because they focus on optimising their processes and products based on existing consumer behaviour and economic trends. I think there are also businesses who actively seek to influence and shape consumer behaviour, often through marketing, branding, and product innovation. And these businesses understand the power of changing perceptions, creating trends, and altering the meaning and value associated with their products or services. As a marketer we can change the way people behave, we can change what things mean, we can change whether something feels cheap or expensive.
Unfortunately, the finance division of businesses are often based on rational and data-driven decisions. This approach tends to rely on analysing historical data, market trends, and economic indicators to make strategic decisions. I think whilst this analytical mindset is extremely valuable, it’s also important to recognise that unconventional and creative solutions can lead to breakthroughs and shouldn’t be ignored. Magic is not easy and not everybody can do it all the time, but it should be integrated into your decision making processes because there are magical solutions out there.
An entrpreneur's story
Henry Ford was the founder of the Ford Motor Company and he famously implemented the concept of the assembly line to increase production efficiency and reduce costs, which ultimately led to lower car prices and increased sales. Ford recognised the importance of leisure and its connection to his strategy for selling cars by making cars affordable and accessible to the average person it would enable them to have more leisure time and enjoy activities outside of work. I think Ford was brilliant and at the same time pathetic, he was both a genius and a fool, you can watch a wonderful documentary here and make up your own mind.
““Any customer can have a car painted any colour that he wants so long as it is black.” ”
Uncovering problems
This idea aligns with the principles of marketing, which focus on understanding consumer needs, wants, and desires, and then tailoring offerings to meet those expectations. Marketing plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between what is produced and what is desired by consumers. By identifying consumer preferences, conducting market research, and utilising various marketing techniques, organisations can effectively communicate the value of their products or services to potential customers. This process involves crafting messages, creating branding strategies, and utilising persuasive techniques to influence consumer perceptions and ultimately drive demand.
The sweet spot
c/o The New York Times
I think many economic problems are marketing problems in disguise as the root of these problems lies not in the logical aspects of economics, but rather in the psychological realm of human perception and desire. This perspective emphasises the importance of understanding and influencing consumer behaviour and preferences in order to create value and solve economic challenges effectively. One key aspect of this argument is the idea that value is subjective and exists primarily in the minds of individuals. While there may be inherent qualities and functions in a product or service, their value is ultimately determined by how they are perceived by consumers. And this is why many of the problems we try to solve logically would be easier to solve psychologically.
Dividing your time
Image c/o Harvard Business Review
Time management is the ability to use your time productively and efficiently. I have found that the highest achievers manage their time exceptionally well as making a positive difference in the people’s lives gives time a deeper sense of purpose. From my perspective, cultivating gratitude and being present in the moment allows me to appreciate the time I have. And I think the pursuit of knowledge and personal development adds depth and meaning to our lives. Contact me via e-mail for a 1:1 evaluation of your time management.
Was it worth it?
Have you considered the long-term consequences and benefits of your actions?
Yes, I engage in deliberate decision-making practices and make conscious choices about how I spend my time. If I was to offer you some advice, then it would be to prioritise activities that contribute to your personal growth, focus on meaningful relationships and the pursuit of your goals. Instead of chasing material wealth and possessions, I think it more beneficial to broaden your horizons and seek out experiences as they will provide a sense of fulfilment and contribute to more meaningful life.
Embrace balance
What brings you joy, fulfilment, and a sense of purpose?
I believe lives are only enriched by strong relationships therefore I dedicate my time to nurturing and cultivating meaningful connections with my family and friends. I think quality time spent with loved ones can create lasting memories and provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment. And it’s important to have a balance between different aspects, for example, work, relationships, personal growth, leisure, and self-care. One should strive for a harmonious allocation of time across these areas, enjoying the ebb and flow of life's demands.
Time is a precious commodity
Time is a finite resource that cannot be reclaimed once it is spent, and recognising the limited nature of time can motivate us to use it wisely and prioritise what truly matters to us. To make our lives more meaningful, we must first determine what matters most to us and reflect on our values, passions, and aspirations. I think by understanding our strengths, weaknesses, and personal tendencies can help us make better choices about how to spend our time. Contact me via e-mail to book a 1:1 session, where we can look into how you currently use your time and evaluate whether it aligns with your goals and values.
Time waits for no one
How can we use our time in a way that makes our lives meaningful?
Ancient philosophers were obsessed with this very important question of how to use our time in a way that makes our lives meaningful. Modern time management has moved away from its philosophical roots, and only focuses on tips, tricks, and techniques to get more things done faster, more productively and efficiently. I think it's important to delve deeper into the philosophical roots of this concept to gain a broader perspective on the subject by asking the following questions:
· Why do we have to manage time?
· How precious is your time?
· Contact me via e-mail and let me know what do you think about time.
Reputation building (2)
““Any form of behavioural change, whether good or bad, does require communication. It might happen anyway, but it will happen much faster if you advertise it.””
This statement emphasises the role of communication in facilitating and expediting behavioural change. If you want to change a certain behaviour, whether it's positive or negative, communicating your intentions and efforts can have a significant impact. By openly expressing your commitment to change and informing others about your progress, you not only hold yourself accountable but also allow others to witness and acknowledge your efforts. I think that this transparency and communication will help to build trust and encourage support from those around you, which can further facilitate and reinforce the desired behavioural change.
What are you doing to build your reputation?
I think your reputation is how others see your character, skills, behaviour and values, therefore, it’s vitally important to be introspective and honest with yourself. Contact me via e-mail for 1:1 coaching sessions.
Reputation building (1)
““You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do, but you can build a solid reputation on doing what you say you will do””
This statement highlights the importance of consistency and follow-through in establishing a reputation. As if you go around making promises or having good intentions is not enough to build a solid reputation. Your reputation is based on your actions and the extent to which you fulfil your commitments. When you consistently deliver on your promises and demonstrate reliability, people begin to trust and respect you, which contributes to building a strong reputation. I think actions speak louder than words when it comes to reputation building. Consistently delivering on your commitments and promises is crucial for establishing a solid reputation.
What are you doing to build your reputation?
I think your reputation is how others see your character, skills, behaviour and values, therefore, it’s vitally important to be introspective and honest with yourself. Contact me via e-mail for 1:1 coaching sessions.
Authenticity over algorithms
Many people consider kindness to be a weakness. I think it’s essential to be humble and kind, and also to know your worth. Remember, knowing your worth doesn't mean you have to be arrogant or dismissive of others. It means recognising your own value while respecting and appreciating the worth of others.
““Effective communication is 20% what you know and 80% how you feel about what you know.””
Life is a challenge
Today, Denmark celebrates Ascension Day, a public holiday that holds significance in the country steeped in Christian traditions. I am deeply committed to providing exceptional service and as a teacher and an eternal learner, I embrace a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. My primary goal is to ignite a passion within others, as I believe that this is the future of education. I understand that stepping outside of my comfort zone momentarily is a crucial part of personal growth and improvement.