Recently watched a movie “Whiplash”. Movie revolves around a student and his abusive teacher. Like the main character of the movie, “Andrew”, who wanted to be the best drummer, there are many around us, who just want themselves to be “The Best”. They don’t want to settle for something less. And for that, they are ready to sacrifice anything, which includes their personal and family life.
The question is, as a leader, coach, manager do we have that “eye” to spot that raw talent? Do we have those skills to transform that individual to his desired greatness? Do we as coach or mentor have “at least” 5% of skills like Ramakant Achrekar to train Sachin Tendulkar? Do we “really understand” what Chanakya has done to transform raw kid like Chandragupta to that greatness level. These could be extreme examples, but still thought provoking for me as a coach/ mentor/ trainer/ manager. It made me thinking, if I don’t those skills, am I ready to loose him/her to another mentor or organization, on purpose?
One example I recollect. One fresh graduate was very interested in joining Army in India. He tried a lot, but every time he failed. On social pressure, he kept doing the job in hand. But, he never progressed on the corporate ladder in that organization, as his superiors didn’t understand his true worth. He struggled, struggled and struggled. Though he regretted, he couldn’t join Army, he used to say, I’ll use all those strategies and techniques Army uses while doing the job. His bosses, of course, wanted him to do the work they are accustomed to, under their supervision, as they dictate.
After many years of frustration, he left the job and joined another organization. His way of working didn’t change, but now he was in an environment where he could only excel using his acquired skills. And that’s what happened. He became Director of that company within a few years.
Like the student Andrew in the movie, he believed in his own potential and when the platform was right, just threw all burdens, allegations away and performed to his best. He got the result he was looking for.
Again, the point is, how many (including you & me) can actually stick to their beliefs. If yes, what do they have to sacrifice? How much price they have to pay? And where will they find that “Master”, who will guide them? How? Movie shows an abusive teacher who wants just the best from each of his students, no matter what. Can today’s generation withstand that pressure?
In ancient days, students used to go in a search of “Right Guru” who can extract the best from his chosen discipline. Are we searching for that Guru in our corporate life?
Movie had a scene, where teacher says to student … “Good Job” is a harmful word. How many times, do we use it for others, probably everyday, just to motivate an individual. In the process, are we restricting him to strive for his true potential ?
Think about it !!!