Mindfulness in the Age of Complexity

The Wed WHAD Newsletter aka TWWN (Series 02: Edition 03: Sep-wk1)

Dear WHADer,

In TWWN S03 Edition 3, we look at mindfulness, a concept that is closely linked to “being present” and highly related to our ability to become happier Architects and Designers.

Why?

Because as happier creators, we can contribute to humanity what it truly deserves. Selfishly, this is also important for each of us to fulfil our professional (and I would say personal also) calling, meaning+purpose.

Let’s GO!

Topic: MINDFULNESS

Article: Mindfulness in the Age of Complexity

*This is my summary of the original article published by HBR of the same title. It is the recording of an interview with Ellen Lander by Alison Beard

Ellen Langer’s research on mindfulness has transformed our understanding of how paying attention to the present can enhance our lives. Her work shows that mindfulness—actively noticing new things—can reduce stress, boost creativity, and improve performance. Unlike mindlessness, where we rely on autopilot, mindfulness helps us engage fully with the world, leading to better outcomes in both personal and professional settings.

Langer’s experiments, like her famous “counterclockwise” study, demonstrate that our mindset can significantly impact our health and well-being. In the business world, mindfulness can lead to superior performance. For example, musicians who played mindfully were preferred by listeners over those who played on autopilot. This illustrates that mindful engagement can enhance creativity and overall output.

Mindfulness also improves interpersonal relationships and charisma. Langer’s studies show that mindful people are more likeable, persuasive, and less judgmental. They avoid pigeonholing others and appreciate the context behind behaviours, which fosters better understanding and collaboration.

In leadership, mindfulness is essential. It allows leaders to navigate complex situations more effectively by staying open to new perspectives and solutions. Rather than being governed by rigid rules, mindful leaders adapt to changing circumstances, which enhances decision-making and innovation.

Langer emphasises that mindfulness isn’t just about focus but about maintaining a soft openness to new ideas and possibilities. She encourages leaders to integrate mindfulness into their daily lives, making each moment meaningful. This approach, she argues, leads not only to personal fulfilment but also to professional success.

If interested, you can find the complete HBR article here:

https://whad-flyt.com/blog/f/fr-hbr-mindfulness-in-the-age-of-complexity

Looking Ahead: Join my FREE Coaching in Sep

As we journey through series two of TWWN, I advocate mindfulness because it has helped and continues to help me do everything with better focus and achieve more. I also invite all Architects to consider how one can sharper our saws (quote from Stephen Covey's "7 Habits").

Working on these aspects (and more) can be through coaching or peer learning.

I am using this opportunity to reach out to anyone interested to benefit from an upcoming FREE group coaching (next one is on 14th Sep Sat). See:

https://www.dhirubhai.net/posts/frvenlim_whad-activity-7232733553283723265--WDd?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios

Thank you for joining us on this journey through TWWN. May the insights and inspirations you’ve gained fuel your self discoveries and creativity.

Happier Architects fulfil Mission+Purpose

#HappinessAdvantage

Until the next edition…

Warm wishes,

Frven Lim

Founder, #WHAD movement

E: [email protected]

PS: If you are curious and would like to know more about my coaching work, please feel free to send me a DM, or book a FREE Discovery Call using the link in my website.