New program, new passion

Managing multiple projects and programs over many years, can take a significant toll both intellectually and emotionally. Large initiatives can be extremely draining and stressful, and I have personally found it unsafe to link my sense of well-being to the success (or not) of the initiative.

Of course there are systemic methods to help.  Remaining fact-based, being passionate but not emotional, and compartmentalising work from your personal life are all important.

A successful approach I have employed over the years is to start learning a new personal skill whenever I start a new project or program. It could be anything – my only rule is that it must be something out of my comfort zone, something I have never tried before.

I remember my first attempt – I decided to learn to ride a horse. It was brilliant, though daunting. It was just 10 lessons where I learnt to trot and gallop, and eventually to jump a fallen tree trunk (which seemed so daunting at the time). My fondest memory was completing a “triple summersault in the pike position”. I was riding bareback with no stirrups or bridle in the arena, learning how my seat needs to move “with the horse”. Quite a magnificent sensation. Unfortunately, the horse decided to go right as I continued straight ahead. Still remains a fond memory.

Another attempt was photography, something a little more creative. I learnt all I could about various styles of photography and found myself drawn to night photography. Then I needed to learn about multi-exposures. Then I needed to become proficient with Photoshop. Then I need to learn how to do semi-professional printing at home, when I found the printed photograph was so much more compelling to me than a digital version viewed on a mobile.

Interestingly, it is the memories of taking a good photo that most resonates today. I remember taking a photo of the Brooklyn Bridge in New York late on a cold winter’s night. I booked a driver to take me to the other side of Manhattan to get the shot, but I started to have doubts when the driver explained the recent gang trouble and violence in the area. I have never setup to take a photo so quickly and efficiently! A decent photo, and a treasured memory.

Taekwondo took three years and continued across a few programs. I still remember turning up sore and sorry to many a Monday stand-up after weekend training. Now I’m learning swing dancing with the additional challenge of being completely bereft of rhythm. Jazz piano remains elusively on the horizon.

You will often hear speakers and authors talk about the importance work-life balance. I am happy to report that the multiple experiments conducted over many years have conclusively helped with my work resilience. Interestingly, it didn’t matter if I was doing well or poorly with my new skill, it was having the outlet that mattered.

I’m passionate about improving program delivery for organisations (and improving myself) – I’d love to hear from you if you’re interested in doing the same.