Change – The Specialist-Generalist

June 10, 2019June 10, 2019 John Worne Change, Optimism, Project Management, Specialist-Generalist

Optimism

Optimism - it’s the Specialist-Generalist’s best friend. Nine times out of ten you just don’t know if something’s going to work or not; and you’re likely surrounded by experts who will tell you all the things that could (and maybe will) go wrong... But, most of the time they probably won’t. And if they do, … Continue reading Optimism

June 17, 2017June 17, 2017 John Worne Change, Specialist-Generalist

Seasons – seizing the moment when organisational climate changes

All organisations have their seasons: new CEO, market changes, the economy dives; new Governments, policies, regulations; reorgs, reshuffles and restructures. The Specialist-Generalist always needs to be attuned to the organisational climate - and be quick to recognise lasting changes in the weather. Good moves that weren't possible at one moment in time, can suddenly become … Continue reading Seasons – seizing the moment when organisational climate changes

May 27, 2017May 27, 2017 John Worne Change, Leadership, Project Management, Specialist-Generalist

Small is beautiful

By John Worne Big ideas - and big projects - are vital for any organisation to move forward; and there's usually no shortage of them. But real energy and momentum, pace and progress often come from doing smaller things. On spotting a useful 'small change' a Specialist-Generalist will often be jostled by stakeholders, senior leaders … Continue reading Small is beautiful

February 23, 2017February 23, 2017 John Worne Change, Leadership, Specialist-Generalist

HBR – Mistakes to avoid when challenging the Status Quo

Top tips from the HBR on challenging the status quo - it's not being right that gets stuff moving; as President Bartlett famously said in the West Wing; "Leadership when nobody follows, is just taking a walk..." 3 Mistakes to Avoid When You’re Challenging the Status Quo You have a great idea that will improve … Continue reading HBR – Mistakes to avoid when challenging the Status Quo

Here's what Harvard Business Review has to say on 'Imposter Syndrome', every Specialist-Generalist's constant companion:

"We’ve all had that feeling of being unqualified to do something we’ve been tasked to do. But the fact that everyone occasionally suffers from impostor syndrome (even CEOs and Prime Ministers) doesn’t make it any easier to handle.

Try these three things:

1) Recognise there are positives to being new in your field. When you’re not steeped in the conventional wisdom of a given profession or industry, you can ask questions that haven’t been asked before or approach problems in ways others haven’t thought of.

2) Adopt a learning mindset. Focus more on what you’re learning than on how you’re performing.

3) Know that you’re not alone. If you’re feeling like an impostor, chances are that others feel the same way."