The Self-Transforming Mind

Our ability to grow and develop our potential is a life-long process. Neuroscientists and social scientists have shown that individuals can continually expand their mental capacity throughout their lives. Two researchers/authors, Robert Kegan and Lisa Lahey, have identified 3 developmental stages for adult thinking: 1.  Socialized mind: People whose minds are shaped by those around them.  What they say and think is strongly influenced by outside sources. These are people with ‘go with the flow’ mindsets. They conform and are dependent on others for direction and values. 2. Self-authoring mind: Those who develop their own internal compass to guide them. Their sense of self is aligned with their beliefs, principles, and values.  People who are achievers and independent. The people who believe if you stand for nothing, you’ll fall for anything. 3. Self-transforming mind: The most developed and transformed minds are people who who have their own ideology. but they are able to step back from their own point of view and see how to connect with those of opposing views. These people are more likely to form coalitions that can transform a family, community, nation. This ability requires humility and courage. Our ability to succeed is directly related to how we think.  Whether you are working in business, government, medicine, etc., it’s important to be aware of your mindset and continually work towards the self-transforming mind....

Tricks of the Trade—Supervising

Supervising is learned just as technical skills are learned. However, training to be a supervisor takes an extra level of self-awareness and discipline. In a study done by Dr. Eugene Jennings at Michigan State University, he identified 14 qualities of highly successful supervisors: Gives clear work instructions, communicates well Praises others when they deserve it, understands the importance of recognition Is willing to take the time to listen to others Can be counted on to behave maturely and appropriately Has confidence and self-assurance Has appropriate technical knowledge to coach, teach and evaluate others Understands group’s problems—listens attentively and carefully Gains respect through honesty. Easily admits mistakes and takes ownership Is fair to everyone—demonstrated through patterns of assignments and avoidance of favoritism Demands good work from everyone Gains people’s trust by properly representing interests of the group to higher management Works for the best interests of both the group and higher management Maintains an air of friendliness while at the same time not being “one of them” Demonstrates a desire to understand without shutting off feedback through judging, moralizing or belittling According to these qualities, how do you rate as a supervisor?...

How mentally tough are you?

The numbers are down. The pressure is on. Your boss is breathing down your neck. How are you going to get through today?   If you have a low emotional awareness, this could be an accident waiting to happen. We live in a society that places far more weight on our IQs than our EQS, yet people weigh high EQS are known to be happier in every area of their lives—social, emotional, financial. In times of stress, your IQ can only get you so far. When your boss has piled one too many projects on your plate you need— – Mental Toughness – Self-Control – Self-Awareness In times of high stress, are you reacting or responding in self-regulation? Today, take a moment to look introspectively and get feedback from your peers.   How mentally tough are...

Creating Purpose

As we prepare for growth and conduct interviews here at Entera, we ask the question—what motivated you to apply for this particular job? Is it a heightened level of opportunity? Increased pay? Over half of the candidates say they are looking for a new job because they have quit learning and growing in their current jobs. These men and women represent an astounding majority of today’s workforce. People want to feel purpose and see growth in their work lives. The resounding cry of today’s workforce is: “I am making good money, but the money isn’t worth the sacrifice.” We must engage and nurture our employees for us to even dream of the possibility of being a successful company. When you realize that your role is not just to become a more effective leader, but to help others become better leaders, you will give birth to a culture of leadership–the key to attracting and retaining thoroughbreds.   How are you growing and encouraging leaders in your company? How have you been strengthened and developed by an organization you’ve worked for?...

Don’t Discount Your Vision

This month, Entera + Partners Consulting is celebrating its 10 year anniversary. For 10 years, we have had the privilege of serving clients whose brands are synonymous with excellence, service and innovation. It’s a time for celebration for what has been and also—for what is to come. Entera is poised for growth. We’ve launched a new website, moved to a new office and hired new employees. As exciting as all of this is, growth is complex. Everything has gotten a little more complicated. New processes and systems need to be created. New marketing strategies need to be implemented. How do we decide what to focus on? How can the brand be strengthened instead of diluted as the company grows?   After dizzying conversations with colleagues and mentors, we decided there are 5 areas on which we will concentrate: People – Get the best people who want to learn and grow as the company grows in an environment where our core values are practiced every day. Infrastructure—Make sure the processes and systems are simple and are built around our vision for the future. Strategy – Stay focused on activities that really matter to our clients and         stakeholders. Execution— Work with a handful of priorities at all times? Vision— Don’t ever lose sight of the endgame.   It is humbling to see the realization of a goal and thrilling to embark on the pursuit of another. As we journey through each small change, we must never lose sight of our vision.   What is your vision for your company? How can you embody that vision daily?...

The Christmas Story and the Dignity of Man

I’ve never understood man’s attempts to rid himself of a divine being whose story has been called the Greatest Story ever Told; a divine being whose character is demonstrated by an act of love so amazing that it is almost too good to be true.  What is man that this divine being would sacrifice all to redeem him? Luke 2 – The Christmas Story At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire.  (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee.  He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant. And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. The Shepherds and Angels That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep.  Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified,  but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city...