"Vision with Action: A Leader’s Blueprint for Impactful Change"
Prabhudas Borkar
LinkedIn 8X Top Voice | Global Network & Security Lead | Cloud Cybersecurity | Identity and Access Management Management| Digital and Network Security Transformation and Operations | NOC and Growth Leadership
Introduction Nelson Mandela once said, “Action without Vision is only passing time, Vision without Action is merely daydreaming, but Vision with Action can change the world.”
These words resonate deeply with me, particularly during moments when aligning vision with action felt like an uphill battle. Leadership is not just about the victories—it’s about the struggles, the doubts cast by others, and the courage to stand firm in your values and vision.
Today, I want to share not just the successes but also a challenging moment in my career where I was tested by internal escalations within Network Operations. Despite the odds, I held onto my integrity and commitment to my team, emerging stronger and more resolved.
1. Action Without Vision: The Illusion of Progress
Any role, particularly in fast-paced environments such as Managed Services-Network Security OPs, can easily become caught up in the rush of activity. However, without a clear strategy, even the busiest of teams risk succumbing to reactive firefighting.
Real-World Example: Early in my career, I worked under a leader who prioritized speed over strategy. The team constantly scrambled to meet short-term goals, often at the expense of long-term stability. While we stayed busy, we were also stuck in a cycle of recurring issues that drained resources and morale.
Lesson Learned: Taking time to define a vision is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Action is only meaningful when it contributes to a larger purpose.
2. Vision Without Action: A Missed Opportunity
Having a vision is crucial, but the real challenge lies in execution. No matter how innovative or well-intentioned your ideas are, they need a solid plan and consistent effort to materialize.
Real-World Example: One of my earlier ideas involved streamlining escalation processes in Managed Services-Network Security Ops to Level-up the SLAs and Sense of Accountability. While the vision was clear, I initially struggled to build consensus among stakeholders. It was a humbling experience that taught me the importance of communication, collaboration, and persistence in turning ideas into action.
Lesson Learned: A vision is only as strong as the actions that follow. Take deliberate steps, involve the right people, and adapt as needed.
3. Vision with Action: A Test of Integrity Amid Internal Escalations
The true test of leadership is not just in success but in how we respond to adversity.
The Challenge:
In one of my most challenging professional moments, I faced escalations—not from a client, but internally from my reporting stakeholders. A complex Large client's Infra incident led to unexpected Level-down the SLAs and slow core application performance. Despite the technical intricacies and the team’s round-the-clock efforts to resolve the issue, blame was disproportionately directed at me.
The situation escalated further when my reporting stakeholder questioned my leadership and decisions. The atmosphere became tense, with indirect accusations that undermined my credibility. My team, though shaken, stood by me, as they had witnessed the transparency and commitment with which I had led the crisis response.
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What I Did:
The Outcome:
While the situation was emotionally and professionally draining, it became a turning point. My honesty and unwavering support for my team earned their loyalty and respect. Over the period, my reporting stakeholders also came to acknowledge the integrity of my actions.
Key Takeaways from Failure and Resilience
1.???? Honesty Is Non-Negotiable
2.???? Support Your Team Unconditionally
3.???? Separate Vision from Politics/Conflicts
4.???? Turn Failures into Learning Opportunities
Conclusion:
Mandela’s words remind me that vision and action must coexist to create meaningful change. My journey, marked by both triumphs and challenges, has reinforced this belief. Whether it’s driving a global security workload migration, Large Network Security Managed Services or Operations, or navigating internal escalations, I’ve learned that integrity and resilience are as vital as strategy and execution.
How have you navigated moments of failure or internal conflicts/criticism while staying true to your vision? I’d love to hear your stories and lessons through your comments.
Cloud Technology Enabler | AWS | Azure | Certified Architect | Cloud Security | CNAPP | Kubernetes | DevOps | Cloud-Native Solutions | Cloud Infra | System Design | Generative AI | Consultant | AWS Community Builder??
2 个月Very informative Prabhudas Sir ??
Internal Vigilance II Fraud Investigation II, FCU II CU II Fraud Risk Management II, Preventive Vigilance II, Internal Audit II Anti Bribery II Anti-Corruption Compliance, II Corporate Governance II Cyber fraud
2 个月Very well said I also believe in said fact that setbacks may shake us but can't break us It even gives a great opportunity to have learnings and once you have Clarity of your purpose and vision you will be driven towards your destination where you are meant to be.
Technology Leader @ Encora Inc. | Cloud/Technical Architect | Leadership
2 个月Nicely written
Senior Project Manager | Real estate construction | Expert in High-Rise Residential & Commercial Construction | MIVAN Formwork Specialist | Driving Cost Optimization & Timely Deliveries
2 个月Insightful