REFLECTION AND ACTION

When we reflect on the path we have come through it only leads to proper action for the future.  I am now reflecting on a few things, my blog, my professional experience and 2016 in particular.

My blog is now 75 months old and I am now writing 275th piece of scribbling.  On an average I have scribbled atleast once every week and quite happy about it.  Along the way I have learnt lessons on what people like and what people reject.  I have had resounding success on Music and Entertainment though the expectation was that my motivational articles would be well received. On Reflection into this record I have now thought that the action going forward should be to sustain one article per week in this blog to inspire and encourage the younger generation.

My professional practice as a Strategy Advisor is now 63 months old I have handled 71 different assignments.  On an average I have landed on one new assignment each month and it has been a very challenging and very exciting period so far.  Some of the clients have paid well and some have paid moderately but overall it has been highly remunerative.  There are some assignments where I have not been financially remunerated but it has added great value to my experience.

I strongly believe in the three types of Reflection, viz., For Action; On Action and In Action.  I have personally practiced the three types of reflection in a very systematic way.  Probably this is what is helping me to improve in every facet of my life.

These reflections also helps in how we would like to shape our future and career.  Our aspirations and vision is driven by these reflections.  "What matters most is how you see yourself".

While it is important to reflect on how we see ourselves it is equally important not to forget the past at the origins.  I always vividly remember my early days in life when I used to go to far off places including my college in bicycle.  Those cycle rides are still green in memory after more than 30 years.

Perceptions keep changing and everything in this world is driven by perception.  Even a buying decision is made not on the basis of what is needed but rather on the perceived value being higher than the price at which the product or service is offered.  One can clearly see the shoreline in the below picture but at the same time you can also admire the picture as the outline shape is a formation of a perfect Guitar.  It is also possible to see the beautiful Sun Rise or Sun Set thus the perception is a view only focused on the Sun.

Reflection and Action helps in reaching the desired vision or desired goals in life.  We do use the idiom "fish out of water" in certain circumstances.  It has applied to me on several occasions but I have always achieved the desired results or reached my goals simply due to my perseverance and determination.  Look at the fish out of water and how he manages to reach the water ultimately by sheer determination to live.



2016 has been very eventful and challenging.  Professionally it was very exciting year with lot of new and good assignments.  I have also undergone a course on Business Valuation to upgrade my knowledge.  I have done 10 different workshops on IFRS during 2016 which is a very satisfying aspect of 2016.

As an active participant in the Excellence Programmes of the Government I am engaged in Dubai Quality Award; Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award; Taqdeer Award and Sharjah Economic Excellence Network.  These engagements provide a lot of learnings and insights into the best practices in different industries.  Engaging in four different excellence award programmes during 2016 has been a real highlight of the year.

On the personal front I lost my father on 18th August 2016.  He is the greatest inspiration for me in life and my character is influenced by my father to a large extent.  He continues to be my greatest hero though he has left this world.

On 21st August 2016 my mother-in-law passed away.  A very simple and kind hearted lady whom I admired a lot.  She was truly a role model and extraordinary lady.  I have never seen her angry or upset or shouting at anyone in life.  Her patience and self-less service is unforgettable.

These two set backs in personal life was followed by a good news on 19th October 2016 when I was blessed with a Grand Daughter.  She is the new addition in the family and has brought lot of joy in the family.

Overall it has been a quite exciting, challenging, eventful 2016.  I look forward to the New Year.

I wish you all a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.


T.P.Anand
31st December 2016
Dubai, U.A.E.