Evolutionary Provocateur

Creating the Future From Within

Recognition is growing that humanity is at a pivotal point of choosing whether we become victims of a fate we have created OR choose to evolve, expand our capacity and ‘create the world anew’ as Peter Senge put it. The intersection between personal and professional growth, is inseparable from our ability to create our future.

If we presume that people, including employees, want 3 things: 1) meaningful work, 2) control over our lives, 3) a sense of hope for the future, then the release of untapped human potential becomes inseparable from employee retention, creativity and innovation, and our collective ability to design the future of the world.

We are the ones we have been waiting for. The leadership required to create a future with hope lies within each individual. Are you willing to step up to the plate and find out what you can do?

With a group of my colleagues we have designed a radical learning program that goes to the heart of embedded belief systems and gives you, the participant, 13 modules stairstep and progressive to truly discover, uncover and release core talent and creativity held at the deepest levels.

We are looking for progressive companies to beta-test the program. Benefits to the company include: employee retention, reduced health care cost, increased innovation and creativity, reduced stress, increased productivity, productive communication and relationships, engaged employees.

Companies must be prepared to take steps to adjust their culture to receive the talent rather than repress it unknowingly.

Serious referrals only please contact Dawna Jones: 1.866.605.0880 or 604.605.0589.

Authenticity: Is it really at odds with executive leadership roles?

A recent article in Forbes.com by Saj-nicole A. Joni states "thoughtul leaders know that the popular definition of autehtnticity-beingfully yourself, completely transparent, always telling the unvarnished truth --is at odds with the reality of the executive leadership roles and responsibilities." The reason is that "full disclosure must give way to discretion." Bennis is quoted as saying, 'The truth is , we all know tath wxective operate in roles that come with many strategic, operational, legal and ethical constraints."

I found this perspective interesting.

The definition of authenticity in Primal Leadership by Daniel Goleman, Boyatzis and McKee defines autheticity as acting from one's genuine feelings. Using discretion is still consistent with that definiton. But if the meaning of authenticity in the corporate environment has morphed into being associated with telling the whole truth under any circumstances, then authenticity is being confused with disclosure.

Authentic leaders are real. They may not be perfect but they are truly aware, or at minimum dedicated to becoming aware of what their shortcomings are and what feelings they are expressing. Some views see authenticity as something that is part of the performance, a theatrical reference, rather than being genuine and trustworthy as the word is actually defined. The idea that authenticity is something you use strategically forgets that genuiness and trustworthiness centers on you and your actions. The role you play, or your purpose, is the podium. The message comes from your center of energy that you express yourself from.

When you reflect on your own relationships with people who you consider to be authentic. What makes them 'real'? How do they create the podium of safety that allows people to reveal their true feelings in a supportive environment?

There is an ancient universal principle which goes: 'Tell the truth without blame or judgment." (See the Four Fold Way by Angeles Arrien). Authenticity in those teachings is synonomous with being connected with one's spirituality, which is the conduit for all energy. When applying these concepts, much discernment must be used. it can be only be employed to effect with individuals who are committed to achieving high levels of personal mastery. Standing on that step there is a much clearer picture of how to authenticity is directly connected to personal presence - essential for leaders at any level.