Mark Eber’s Post

These words echo a common workplace phenomenon, prompting us to delve into a transformative journey of self-awareness and understanding. The Challenge of Intention-Action Misalignment: Teams are diverse ecosystems of individuals, each with their perspectives and motivations. The gap between our intentions and how others interpret our actions can be significant. To bridge this divide, we learn to be more self-aware while cultivating curiosity about the intentions of our teammates. Exploring Your Lens: Are people receiving the message you are meaning to send? 1. Self-Reflection: Understand your motivations. What drives your actions? Are your intentions honorable? 2. Developing Self-Awareness: Understand how your actions are perceived or misperceived by others. 3. Accountability Matters: What can you do to own your behaviors and ensure that your intentions are understood by the receiver.   Curiosity as a Catalyst: Unraveling Others' Intentions 1. Pause and Reflect: Pause before making judgments about others behaviors. The stories we make up are almost always wrong. 2. Lens Awareness: Consider the possibility of misunderstandings arising from differences in perspective. 3. Questions for Clarity: Instead of assuming, or making up a story, go to the person and ask questions. Seek understanding. Embark on the Developmental Journey If you find yourself curious about navigating this journey of self-discovery and team understanding, reach out. Initiating a developmental journey to explore unique talents and their impacts can transform your team dynamics.

When “Going With the Flow” Challenges Your Values: A Reflection on Integrity in the Workplace The workplace can be an inspiring environment where we learn, grow, and thrive. But sometimes, it can also test the core of who we are. Subtle shifts in behavior—like accepting a norm we disagree with or adopting practices we know aren’t right—can snowball into habits that stray from our personal values. It starts small: A “harmless” shortcut to meet a deadline. Ignoring a problematic comment to avoid conflict. Adjusting to an environment where cutting corners becomes standard practice. Before we know it, these compromises can erode not just our work ethic but also our sense of integrity. ✨ Why This Matters: Our values are the foundation of our character. They guide our decisions, shape our relationships, and define our professional brand. In any workplace, it's easy to feel pressured to “go with the flow” and normalize practices that may not align with our beliefs. But doing so can lead to a loss of purpose and passion. We should never normalize behaviors that conflict with our values. Instead, we should strive to either influence positive change or recognize when it’s time to move on. 🔑 What Can We Do? Self-Reflection: Regularly check in with yourself. Are you proud of how you’re navigating challenges? Are you staying true to the person you want to be? Advocate for Change: If you see something misaligned with core values, speak up. Sometimes, others are waiting for someone to lead the way. Draw Boundaries: Know your limits. If a workplace consistently clashes with your principles, it may be time to seek a healthier environment. Lean on Integrity: Values aren’t meant to be flexible—they are meant to guide you through the toughest moments, even when it’s inconvenient. 💡 Final Thought: Staying true to your values in a challenging environment isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Our careers might evolve, but our integrity is the legacy we carry wherever we go. Don’t settle for “normalizing” what feels wrong—stand firm in your beliefs, and surround yourself with opportunities that celebrate your authenticity.#IntegrityInWorkplace #WorkplaceValues #ProfessionalGrowth #Leadership #Authenticity

🌟 The Hidden Power of Saying ‘Thank You’ in the Workplace 🙏💼 It’s easy to forget the magic behind those two little words: "Thank you." But what if I told you that saying "thank you" at work could actually be your secret weapon for success? Here’s how: ✨ It’s a Mood Booster: A genuine "thank you" isn’t just polite—it’s uplifting. It tells someone, “Hey, you matter.” And guess what? Feeling valued = increased motivation. ✨ It’s the Glue That Binds Teams: Trust doesn’t grow overnight, but a "thank you" is like planting a seed of respect. When you show appreciation, relationships deepen, and collaboration becomes seamless. ✨ It’s the Spark That Ignites Culture: In a world of endless deadlines and Zoom calls, a culture of gratitude can stand out. It’s infectious—when one person expresses thanks, others follow. Suddenly, you’re in an environment where kindness and camaraderie thrive. ✨ It’s a Productivity Power-Up: People work harder and smarter when they feel recognized. A simple "thank you" can lead to bigger ideas, better teamwork, and, yes, greater productivity. We’re all busy, but let’s not be too busy to show appreciation. A quick "thank you" can spark positive change, boost morale, and strengthen connections. 💬 💡 So here’s the challenge: Today, thank someone for the work they do. Not because it’s their job, but because they deserve it. Tell me, how has saying "thank you" transformed your workplace? Drop your thoughts below! 👇 #GratitudeInAction #WorkplaceCulture #Leadership #Appreciation #Productivity #ThankYou

How would you redefine workplace skills for greater happiness in your company culture? Forget the old labels of "hard" and "soft" skills. In reality, all skills are hard, and the ones we often overlook are the hardest and most impactful. I think the distinction between hard skills as technical abilities and soft skills as desirable qualities is outdated. In fact, "impact skills" - what we used to call soft skills - like emotional intelligence and adaptability, are critical in our company culture as we see it today. Winston Churchill is noted for pointing out that courage is the first of all virtues because it is the only one that forges all others. True courage means taking thought-out actions despite the risks and aiming for positive outcomes. Whether it's leading the charge on innovation, having honest conversations, or making tough decisions amid uncertainty, showing courage can really pay off. After all, embracing risk is essential for achieving breakthroughs. Here are three critical impact skills for today's leaders in the workplace: 1️⃣ Effective Communication: It's about more than words; it's how you energise and inspire belief and belonging among your team. 2️⃣ Role Modeling: More than ever, maintaining integrity and professionalism is crucial. Be the example you want to see consistently. 3️⃣ Positive Attitude and Approach: How you show up matters. Your demeanour sets the tone, opens possibilities, and demonstrates resilience. What other key impact skills have I missed? 

One of the things I was always terrible at in my consulting career was playing the corporate game. I refused to give respect to people just because they were more senior than me I was incapable of sucking up to anyone just to get ahead, even if it meant me not progressing in the way I wanted. I generally chose to express my honest opinion, rather than keep quiet and/or ‘tow the party line’ I knew then as I know now that this was going to make it very hard for me to progress to the very top. I also knew that it meant I was considered ‘hard work’ by some. But in some ways it was very useful in that it helped me understand that getting to ‘this’ top was not for me. Ultimately it helped me understand that I needed to leave. Because for me it was important to be able to bring more of myself to work than that environment allowed. Authenticity and humanity were / are two qualities I value more than most, and it didn’t feel as though they were really welcome. I get that the world of work is imperfect. But I also believe that you need to be able to be you, without feeling like you are transgressing some fundamental (if unspoken) rule of the organisational culture. So what about you? If you know that you feel fully yourself at work, you’re onto a good thing. 🎉🎉 If you feel slightly compromised, that’s perhaps ok. 😊 But if you know that a precious, essential part of yourself has no voice in your workplace, maybe you need to reconsider. 💡 #deeplyhuman #culture #newbeginnings

In today’s corporate world, it’s not just about hard work or consistency. We’ve all heard the saying, “Actions speak louder than words.” But in a professional setting, consistency often speaks louder than both. However, there’s a third dimension to this equation—the need to showcase our accomplishments. Even the most diligent and committed employees sometimes find themselves overlooked if they don’t actively promote what they bring to the table. Simply put, in many corporate environments, visibility is essential. You may have achieved incredible results, implemented impactful projects, or led teams to success. Yet, if you’re not proactive in sharing these contributions, they might go unnoticed. But the reality can be even tougher. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the decisions rest with people at the top who may not recognize or appreciate your value. And in those instances, it’s hard not to feel like all that dedication went to waste. To anyone experiencing this, remember: Keep pushing forward. Toxic cultures may obscure true talent, but consistency, resilience, and integrity remain invaluable qualities. Keep building, learning, and developing yourself because, in the long run, genuine commitment and the pursuit of excellence pave the way to meaningful success. Let’s support and uplift each other in these environments, and keep striving to make a difference—however challenging it may seem. Stay focused, keep achieving, and let your work ultimately speak for itself. #CorporateLife #WorkCulture #Motivation #Resilience #StayConsistent

"Ever feel like Grumpy at work? The peace of mind that comes from doing the right thing is truly priceless. It’s about growing in ways that enrich your life and those around you. Pay off your debts, be considerate, reciprocate kindness, be true to yourself, act with integrity, and speak well of others. These actions build the foundation for personal growth, which is essential for becoming outstanding professionals. This daily commitment transcends any title or position. Honestly, I want you to embrace your power. Believe in yourself deeply and persistently. If you need to pause, let it be for rest, but never lose sight of your goals and dreams. Remember, dreams require effort and dedication. In the workplace, recognizing each other’s worth is crucial. Your contributions are invaluable, and receiving a paycheck is a form of appreciation for your hard work. This exchange goes beyond money; it’s about mutual respect and acknowledgment. The company’s success relies on your dedication, and in turn, they recognize your efforts. This mutual appreciation fosters a strong, supportive environment where everyone can flourish. Now, let’s talk about navigating your workload. Don’t view your company as an adversary or yourself as a victim. Open communication is key. Approach discussions with your superiors professionally, maturely, and with honesty. Express your needs and negotiate your workload with integrity. HR directors and CEOs appreciate when employees come forward with a constructive mindset. They, too, value empathy and empowerment and care deeply for their teams. Believe me, this is where the magic happens. When you communicate openly and work collaboratively, you create a workplace where respect, understanding, and mutual growth thrive. Everyone has a role in making this environment possible, and even those in higher positions are committed to supporting and valuing their teams. This approach not only leads to personal success but also contributes to a thriving, harmonious work culture. #ProfessionalGrowth #MutualRespect #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeRecognition #Leadership #OpenCommunication #CareerDevelopment #Empowerment #Integrity #TeamSuccess #WorkplaceWellbeing #PersonalDevelopment #WorkplaceHarmony #CollaborativeLeadership #HRBestPractices

𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 ....𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮 ? 🌟 The Big Five Personality Traits: Discovering What Shapes Us 🌟 Ever wondered why some people thrive in high-energy social settings while others prefer quiet, focused tasks? Or why some are adventurous risk-takers, and others find joy in routine? Dr. Lewis Goldberg’s Five-Factor Model offers a fascinating perspective on the traits that shape who we are, guiding how we interact, work, and build relationships. Here’s a quick dive into the "Big Five" personality traits: 1️⃣ 𝑶𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝑬𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆:Curious, imaginative, and open to new ideas—this trait drives innovation but can also mean a thirst for constant change. 2️⃣ 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔: High in this trait? You’re probably known for your organization and attention to detail. It’s a trait linked to reliability and effectiveness. 3️⃣ 𝑬𝒙𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏:Energized by social interaction, extroverts thrive on connecting, while introverts excel in reflection and focus. 4️⃣ 𝑨𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔Compassionate and cooperative, people high in agreeableness are skilled at building harmony in teams. 5️⃣ 𝑵𝒆𝒖𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒔𝒎 (Emotional Stability): Being emotionally sensitive can mean high responsiveness to stress. Emotional stability, on the other hand, promotes resilience and calm under pressure. Knowing these traits isn’t just about self-awareness—it’s about understanding how we work together and complement each other. Are you high on openness and low on Agreeableness? Find out for yourself! By recognizing our own personality type, we learn what drives us, where we shine, and even where we might need support. This can be truly transformative. But here’s the next step: learning about the personality traits of those around us—whether they’re our colleagues, team members, friends, or family. When we understand what makes others tick, we can approach interactions in a way that resonates with them, bringing out their best while fostering trust and connection. 💡 Which of these traits do you think shapes your work style the most? Share your thoughts below! #Personality #Leadership #TeamBuilding #SelfAwareness #WorkplaceCulture #GrowthMindset #BigFive #saysomethingwithmads

🖤 👏 YOU 👏 ARE 👏 NOT 👏 YOUR 👏 WORK 👏 🖤 A crucial aspect of professional life that is often overshadowed by the pursuit of metrics and milestones: the power of emotional engagement and the importance of maintaining a clear vision amidst chaos. In our careers, we frequently face periods akin to "falling through the rabbit hole," where every turn feels unpredictable and every decision carries weight. It's in these times that the emotional fabric of our workplace becomes our safety net. The unattached joy, the laughter in team meetings, the shared victories—these are not just pleasant add-ons but essential elements that sustain us, particularly when "it gets dark" and the path ahead seems daunting. The best way to navigate the complexities of business is to maintain a level of detachment from the noise. It’s about finding joy in simplicity and remaining elated by our lack of interest in the transient. Let's embrace our work with a touch of that youthful indifference to chaos, coloring outside the lines to fill our days not just with achievements, but with art—art that comes from creating vibrant, meaningful connections and maintaining a vision that guides us through the dark. Emotional resilience—keeping our spirits high and our focus clear, even when circumstances try to drag us down. The power of having that "person" or mission—be it a mentor, a visionary leader, or a personal why—that keeps us grounded and assures us that we are more than what we imagine. #EmotionalIntelligence #WorkplaceWellbeing #DesignLeadership #Design #Innovation

How to make yourself happier at work: 🚨 No one likes to get a speeding ticket when there’s no posted speed limit. 🚨 If you want to create a high-performance culture, be very specific about what your team needs to do and how they should behave to be successful. As an employee, setting clear expectations is key for me. It allows me to understand: -What I need to accomplish -How much time I have -Why my work matters (beyond just money, but for real value) -Clear expectations prevent unnecessary stress, improve communication, and keep everyone on the same page. And if your manager hasn’t set them clearly? Ask for them. Why it's important: -Reality Check: Make sure you and your manager have the same vision of the expected results. Check if the goals are achievable with the given resources and timelines. -Motivation: Break down your goals into daily tasks and create a roadmap to success. -Reduced Stress: With clear expectations, you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed. -Sense of Control: Know exactly what you’re working toward and how you’ll get there. -Measurable Progress: Clear metrics allow you to track your progress and create meaningful statistics. This realization has been a game-changer in my career. After all, it’s always easier to find your way when you have a map. 🗺