My Leadership Practice

I live in Moratuwa, the furniture capital of Sri Lanka, a town nestled along the enchanting South-Western Coast, just a short distance from the bustling city of Colombo.

Growing up in a low-income family, I understand the value of hard work and what it means to work your way up. Wisdom and knowledge were given the highest priority, and I was encouraged by my parents to seek them both always. Guided by their sacrificial love and encouragement, I have relentlessly pursued these treasures throughout my journey.

I set my very first life goal at the age of 8 (15th November 1989), at the Colombo airport, as I watched my mother leave to another country as a domestic helper. At the age of eight, I was determined never to be in a position where I couldn’t help myself, my family, and others.

Through the grace of God, I now revel in a life of triumph, surrounded by the sheer joy and presence of my 3 awesome kids (Rovein, Ruvin, Shahendri), a sacrificially supporting wife (Roshelle) who shares my life vision and many selfless individuals around me to lift me up in times of need.

Over the years in for-profit, cause-driven & faith-driven leadership engagements, I have realized the secret to living an abundant life isn’t about getting or seeking for more – it is to help others achieve their highest potential to live their best life.

My definition of Leadership: Leadership is the capacity to influence through inspiration not manipulation – to maximize talents, passions, and skills to achieve a goal.

1. INTEGRITY??? Keeping a clear conscience.

Wrong is wrong even if everyone is doing it. Right is right even if no one is doing it.

Being disciplined about my choices and habits is key for me (both at and off work). Hence, I prioritize character over skill and aim for excellence—even with ordinary tasks. I make sure even at the most difficult times my integrity is maintained - no lying, cheating, or stealing shall be tolerated on my team too.

2. BE AVAILABLE ?

In a cluttered and confused world, becoming a good steward of time is challenging. People are trying to do everything within their reach but unfortunately, they end up with no or less results. No matter how skillful we are, how famous we are, how much we have done in the past, if we are not available at a time of need, then we are simply haven’t practiced a productive lifestyle.

3. RESULTS MATTER ??

Leaders should be more than capable of getting the job done. It means you put your own needs and agenda aside and enable people to become great at what they do. It’s asking the bigger question like: How can I help this person grow and thrive?

In my leadership journey I will always be accountable for the results by working hard/smart and not throwing in the towel when the going gets tough - There are no excuses.

4. BE PRODUCTIVE??

I’m certainly not a superhero, but I have simply practiced a way to do more of what matters and less of what doesn’t. Especially, in a culture like ours, saying no is very uncomfortable too. But I am willing to say no to things that won’t serve the team or the company as a whole. I truly know, saying no means I won’t be able to make everyone happy all the time—but that’s okay, because people-pleasing ultimately won’t get me anywhere!

Steve Jobs once said, If you want to make everyone happy, don't be a leader, sell ice cream.

5. UNDERSTAND PEOPLE?

?My team members are not units of production. They are people who have hopes, dreams, fears, and struggles. Every single one of them deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, and a caring heart.

At the same time, I know we’re living in a complex world and I’m aware that I cannot expect only good from others. Being aware of the environment will help me to lead others with more love (Action x Love = Results). No matter what I face as a leader, the mission must continue.

6. I’M VULNERABLE???

I know I’m a sinner cleansed by the blood of Jesus. I know I am weak, and I need divine help and help from others to shape myself to be the one God wants me to be (Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago).

I’m always open to learning, and I love when people speak directly with me about my mistakes. This helps me to take immediate action in correcting myself. Correcting myself will always help me stop being a stumbling block and help everyone else to shine more.

What Others Say: https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/shaveenfernando/details/recommendations/?detailScreenTabIndex=0

My Life Journey:

https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/pain-purpose-shaveen-fernando/

Who Am I:

https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/who-am-i-shaveen-fernando/

Now you know me. Would you like to discover yourself and live an abundant life? If you need my assistance to discover, let's connect.

To register for a coaching session: Drop me a WhatsApp message +94 0777428427