When we see a big white cloth with a dot, what do we see? – Jalaludin Rumi
Sufis believe that each human being is innately good because he is created by the Divine. He may have certain imperfections because he is human – only God is perfect. These imperfections need to be accommodated.
If we contemplate Nature, we understand that rainy days can be gloomy, though necessary to sustain plants and vegetation; sunny days are clear and bright, though they can make us hot and sticky and can dry up the vegetation. We need to focus on the good, making the most of it while accommodating what seems bad.
In a corporate setting the tendency is to look at what is not working rather than at what is. This is problematic because the focus is on the problem instead of the solution. Focusing on the problem diverts our attention from finding a solution.
When we look at things that are working and encourage team players, we create positive energy. We get the best results when we utilize people’s strengths. Tiger Woods concentrates on maximizing his strengths, as do many successful entrepreneurs and sports celebrities. When we come from a place of weakness, we can only make little progress, whereas, when we leverage our strengths, we amplify them.
In general, we are good at certain things and weaker in other areas. Leadership can tap into this and try to encourage the team members to use their best talents in the interest of the team and the corporation.
It would be a waste for Sir Alex Ferguson, the Soccer coach for Manchester United, to play Wayne Rooney in defense when he is a great attacking player.
As a business example, one of my executive clients was having a difficult time with an employee who he saw as having enormous potential but no motivation. This meant that his performance was deteriorating day by day. After meeting with the employee, I gathered two problems. Firstly, the employee was tired of being micromanaged and secondly, he was constantly asked to perform administrative tasks which he had no interest in and thus was underutilizing his skills. He wanted to get involved in the business side of attracting more customers and marketing. I asked my client to give him a try in the area more suited to him. My client has not looked back since. The employee now heads the marketing department at the company and has increased the customer base significantly. Allowing people to use their strengths is beneficial to all parties involved.