DO WE TAKE THE NEW JOB OR STICK ON?
– Radhakrishnan Pillai
(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies of Chanakya as discussed in his 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilyas Arthashastra, in Todays Corporate World)
Now thats a true quandary that all of us have faced at sometime of the other. To continue in the current job or move to a different company, to be in service or start our own business, to keep working or take a break for a higher education these questions haunt every person in the corporate world today,
Chanakya offers a solution for managing such conflicts,
In case of two alternate routes, he should march in a region suitable to himself (10.2.10)
This advice is self explanatory. But the choice taken subsequently could either make or break us. And not just for choosing jobs.
Such a conflict management situation can arise for any and every aspect of life itself. At such times, you have to think through your head and feel through your heart. Keep a check of your strength and weaknesses.
How does one do this? Well, here are some tips for you to follow when facing that tough decision:
1. ASK YOURSELF
The first person you have to consider is yourself. Ask yourself if you are doing the right thing. If you feel that – in the current company and industry – your growth has stagnated, then, prepare yourself for a change. It would actually be great to have an open discussion with your boss or seniors to get a direction. If you still feel the solution is not forthcoming, then seek help externally.
2. SPEAK TO OTHERS
You can consult the experts of your field and check if you are capable of doing something better. If this is too difficult, look at the websites that can guide you in this matter. Join an online group of like-minded people and seek guidance and tips for better understanding of your situation.
3. FOLLOW THAT GUT-FEEL
Finally, after all this analyses, the important part is to take a step in the direction where you want to be in the future. If you continue doing what you are doing, you will continue getting what you are getting. So if you want to be different from what you currently are, do something different. Once you take this first step, half the battle is won provided you want to fight for something better!
Look, there are plenty of opportunities today. But few take risks. Only, those who take calculated risks with measures steps can succeed in achieving their long-term goals.
And please never regret a decision. Even and especially if it is a wrong move, keep going along the chosen path. You just need to follow the military maxim- Burn the bridges behind you. Thatll leave no avenue for retreat!
(The author is the director of ATMA DARSHAN, a company that provides services, including spiritual tours. He is a management consultant and trainer. He can be contacted at radhakrishnan@atmadarshan.com)
The next management training session by the author:
Subject: Chanakyas 7 pillars for success in business
Date and Day: 18th Nov 06 (Saturday)
Timing:
Venue: Hotel ITC Grand central, Parel
Investment: Rs 7500/- per person (Rs 5000 per head for group of 4 and above)
Register by sending an email to consultants@atmadarshan.com