Weekend Musings: 'Catallysis' – Precipitate Ideas and Accelerate

The dictionary meaning of catalysis (here, Catallysis) is the process of accelerating a reaction by a catalyst. Translating that to today’s context, we are gradually accelerating towards a cautiously optimistic approach to resume normal. Whether we like it or not, we need to accept the present reality - where safety and well-being takes precedence, where newer norms of doing business will prevail, where simple and intuitive digital experiences be the way forward to customer interaction and most important, this might just be the normal way to sustain. The good thing is, we as Catallysts, are already inching slowly towards this reality and through – Catallysis, we can collectively infuse positivity to drive efficiencies at work.

Last week, we discussed the state of mind of individuals, their fears and anxiety about stepping out and returning to offices. This week I will touch upon what we as leaders are doing to engage and motivate their teams.

Given the unprecedented situation we are dealing with, as a responsible corporate citizen - I am always in the spotlight and under constant scrutiny. Therefore, it becomes even more important for me to take steps that not only are safe (for my people) but sustainable (for my organization) too. It is an unusual situation where anxiety is at its peak but, we must not leave hope, instead communicate! Communication with your family, friends, peers not only fuels collective positivity but also, helps you drive your ambition and thereby, towards organizational goals.

“We as Catallysts, have an important role to play. Either we regroup and reunite, to think of ways and means to adopt to the normal or, find advanced, innovative ways to take control of the situation. Because, sitting tight and assuming things to switch back to how they were – is not acceptable!”

For people like me, born in the analogue era - we can either be a non-starter or, can turn this situation to our advantage by learning - new digital tools, advanced ways of networking, taking a step back to recalibrate strategies. I personally chose to make the most out of the digital ecosystem with the help of my friends and family and, it has helped me add a great deal of value in my day-to-day operations. For instance, through varied digital platforms, I connect with my key customers, offer them innovative, convenient and connected solutions and in this manner chop off frugal costs. (This no way, discounts the fact that physical, face to face meetings are less important!). Similarly, I have been communicating with my colleagues at work, the taskforce, my peers in the industry to gather collective wisdom.  

As Catallysts, I strongly believe, we have the capability and the character to mitigate the crisis. But in this process of Catallysis, we must focus on keeping ourselves fit – both mind and body. We must follow a disciplined routine, consider our family views and give them the confidence and comfort that we are safe. Second, look for innovative ways to keep yourselves motivated. Task yourselves with learning, say, a GTM project module, set a deadline, present it to yourself or, your team - make yourselves relevant. I promise, by the end of the presentation, you will have a sense of accomplishment and that will keep you motivated.

Across the industry we are witnessing a major shift in terms of - people’s lifestyles – with smart devices, aiding in multitasking; people’s movement – personalized vehicles, work from home policies; and at the workplace - with safety and hygiene being the topmost priority followed by digitization and digital platforms to communicate. We as Catallysts have an important role to play. Either we regroup and reunite to think of ways and means to adopt to the normal or, find advanced, innovative ways to take control of the situation. Because, sitting tight and assuming things to switch back to how they were – is not acceptable!

As Catallysts, as future leaders – let us promise together, to bring forth the best versions of ourselves through collaborative efforts, ensuring compassion and safety for all. You’ll see, together we will be on our growth track aligned to our goals in no time!