Behaviour

As a coach in organisational culture transformation, I see the effort modern African companies are making to appreciate the value of diversity. But there’s a tendency to look for the easily visible signs of difference - ethnicity, gender, sexuality, or mobility - rather than the true diversity that lies within people. The concept - and fact - of Neurodiversity is often seen as a challenge, yet history proves it can be a remarkable asset.

Ghosting - the act of cutting off communication without warning - has long been a feature of personal relationships, particularly in the digital age. But what was once confined to dating apps and social circles has now infiltrated the workplace, creating challenges for organisations, employees, and job seekers alike. As an organisational change consultant, I see the impact of ghosting on professional environments.

In the bustling control centre of our brains, there exists a powerful region that governs much of how we experience life - the limbic brain. Often referred to as our "emotional brain," it plays a pivotal role in shaping our feelings, influencing our behaviours, and even dictating our physical responses. Whether we are gripped by fear, lifted by joy, or calmed by love, it is the limbic system pulling the strings behind the scenes.

It’s easy to become set in your ways. Deciding that the way you see the world, do your work, or even relax at weekends is fine the way it is. But your brain is anything but fixed in its ways. It’s a dynamic, evolving structure that uses neurons (electro-chemical impulses) to connect your thoughts. It also has a remarkable ability to reshape itself, called Neuroplasticity. Plasticity means the ability to be moulded.

Why does the subconscious mind lean so naturally toward negativity? To understand this, we need to explore how the neurological wiring of our brains shapes our psychological identities. Unfortunately, this wiring often tilts toward the negative, leading to outcomes like low self-esteem or an inherently pessimistic outlook. This happens because the human brain is naturally wired to prioritise negative stimuli.

With only two weeks until the holiday season, most of us are focused on ending the business year well. But when the madness stops, remember to pause and reflect on how the year has been for you as a person. Taking the time to reflect on the past year before diving into plans for 2025 is a transformative practice. Introspection is a powerful tool for personal growth, emotional well-being, and setting the stage for future success.