Number 1:
Witnessed a disturbing scene today. An elderly woman (80+ of age) lying on the ground, with blood flowing out of the wound on her head, joining the sizeable puddle of fresh, red liquid on the tiled floor. Think she's at most 1/4 conscious. Eyes closed, with mouth only slightly twitching. Crying relatives held up her limp body, trying to talk to/reassure her (and themselves) while waiting for the ambulance. The medic arrived, pulled an oxygen mask over her face, then stretchered her into the vehicle, leaving the bloody remnants. As I stared at the big red pool, I felt cold sweat form on my forehead, and a desire to vomit. This is, I think, the 2nd time I felt this way. The last I heard, this ah ma underwent surgery to remove the massive clots in her brain. 60% chance of making it. Give your own elderly relatives a hug today and tell them to always be very careful when walking.
Number 2:
Experienced a culture shock today. Chaired an ad hoc meeting (related to my new portfolio next year), thinking it'd be relatively smooth. Just make a few annoucements and give out some meaningful tasks, what's the big deal, right? How very wrong. I underestimated the 'aggressive' quotient of this group of personnel. And I probably also underestimated the 'sensitivity' of the matters discussed. The past 2 yrs had been about projects, free & easy, light & fluffy, continually evolving, limited only by how creative/daring you are, nothing really super tangible at stake. Starting from now, it's a whole new ball game, with a whole new bunch of ppl, and much much higher stakes. And today is my first lesson. It was really deflating when all the questions/'opposition' flew... thought I actually shrunk deeper into my seat. A half hr meeting turned into 1.5hr. Looking back, I now think it's a little comical. =P In for a tough ride, buddy, so better quickly wake up your idea, learn as much as you can, as quickly as you can, and manage as best as you can. Whew.... such a big difference from what I used to do/am doing. Haiz.. wonder if I can make it. =P
3 comments:
Leadership is a humbling experience but that's where the rewards and enrichment come from. Maybe can try 'consulting' individuals before 'announcing' decisions to groups. Just a suggestion though we all got different styles.
Good luck for your journey.
Wah I like what Marly said... so matured, I would never be able to give such advice in this measured tone... always have to pull in a joke or two...
anyways... what's ur new portfolio huh? can tell me per email... maybe u did and i forgot/confused it.
hmm... when working with ppl in a senior position, gotta look back at how it was when you were 'under' somebody. think of how a decision made 'up there' could affect you 'down there' and, yeah take a leaf from the gah-men's book... consultative-style + delivery of stunning news with a di-lam (say in hokkien) and some sweets to lessen any pain/bitterness ;-)
Thanks, Marly & Fish, both of your advice are super lah - very sane, very wise, even tho' done in different styles. *haha* Appreciate it lots! Will try to do my best without losing sanity (both theirs and mine).. =)
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