GANESHA Speaks- 8 Lessons for Managers

Ganesha Speaks- 8 Lessons for Managers

Lord Ganesha symbolizes the victors that are vital to excelling in professional as well as personal life. While in our own lives we often resort to Lord Ganesha for guidance and offer him prayers, even in our professional lives, in the corporate world, this revered hindu deity has a unique role to play.

Stories from Ganesha’s life teach us and guide us  through our professional as well as personal life. Let’s  read a few that can enlighten us.                          

Story of Ganesha’s Creation

Shiva’s Anger

Ma Parvati asked Lord Ganesha to guard the entrance while she takes a bath. Lord Shiva returned home at the same time but was restricted from entering the house. Due to this Ganesha lost his head to Shiva’s divine fury yet neither did he break the trust of his mother nor breach his duty. When Parvati learnt of this, she was enraged and decided to destroy the world. She was stopped by Shiva who realized his mistake and gave Ganesha a new head of an elephant and the status of being foremost among the gods.

Learning: Anger shall lead to repentance.

All of us are in such a hurry to prove that that we are always right, that we use our might before actually analyzing the true situation. In most cases, anger leads to disappointments rather than quicker success. Being calm and level headed are the stepping stones to corporate success.

The Story of Kartikeya and Ganesha

Ganesha Wins the Race

Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, thought of getting Ganesha and his brother Lord Kartikeya (also known as Subramanya and Murugan) married and gave them a challenge that whosoever travels around Mother Earth and returns home first will be the first one to get married. Listening to this, Lord Kartikeya immediately boarded his peacock and embarked on his venture.

On the other hand, the pot-bellied, elephant-headed Lord Ganesha, though over a devised a smarter plan. He rode on his rat and circulated his parents seven times, paid obeisance to them seven times and worshiped them with complete devotion. And then it is said that he explained to Lord Shiva and Ma Parvati that his parents are his world and one who devotes himself to his parents, it is equivalent to going round the world.

Learning: Think and Act, Utilize your Resources

In this tough and competitive world, one has to smart and intelligent enough to be able to solve problems. Utilize available resources to make the best out of the worst. Intelligence goes a long way rather than expressing physical strength.

The Ganesha and Kubera story

Ganesha Eating

Kubera, God of Wealth, was quit proud of the fact that he was the richest God. One day, he held a lavish dinner and invited many popular guests, among them were Lord Shiva and Ma Parvati. As the Divine couple could not attend the dinner, they sent their son, Ganesha who was a small child.

Ganesha began to devour all the food and soon there was no food available in the venue.He then began to eat all the vessels, dishes, furniture and other things at Alakapuri, Kubera’s city.

Ganesha then proceeded to swallow the host of the dinner and the terrified Kubera ran to Lord Shiva’s abode and sought his help. Lord Shiva handed a cup of roasted cereals to Ganesha and his hunger for food ceased immediately. Lord Kubera realized his mistake and sought forgiveness for his pride from Lord Shiva.

Learning: Pride Comes Before the Fall

Do not be proud of what you possess. Instead, concentrate on how you can make use of your possession for good things. Confidence is silent and insecurities are loud. Humility is a very endearing quality which is becoming hard to find. No one appreciates people who keep boasting about their achievements. Humbleness can help you build genuine and richer relationships with people you work with.

Lord Shiva and Ganesha

Shiva and Ganesha

When Lord Ganesha was born, Lord Shiva made a rule that Lord Ganesha must be worshiped first to ensure success in any endeavor.However, Lord Shiva forgot about his own rule and left for a war with the demons in Tripura. He did not worship Lord Ganesha before doing so!While he was on his way in his carriage, the wheel peg got damaged.It was only then Lord Shiva remembered that he forgot to offer prayers to Lord Ganesh before departing for the war.He offered his prayers to Ganesha and proceeded to the battle ground. Lord Shiva won the war!

Learning: Follow the Rules

Being a leader you must lead by example. there can never be separate rules for two different classes. You must follow certain rules, even if you feel you are exempt from doing so.

Ganesha and His Mouse

Ganesha and His Mouse

In the court of Lord Indra, there was a musician named Krauncha. One day, Krauncha accidentally stepped on the foot of Vamadeva, who cursed Krauncha to become a mouse. However, Krauncha grew multiple times his size and started destroying everything that came his way. To teach Krauncha a lesson, Lord Ganesha mounted him. The mouse could not bear the weight of Lord Ganesha and pleaded him to become light-weight. Since then Lord Ganesha is using the mouse as his vehicle.

Learning: Humility and Modesty are Virtues one should possess.

Try not to become too big for your boots, as circumstances might force you to eat the humble pie. Modesty coupled with humility avoids unnecessary conflicts and ill-feeling.

Modesty brings best wishes. It costs nothing and can literally open doors at times. Modesty from great people can inspire some aspiring struggler too. So, it’s better to be humble yourself in the first place.

Ganesha and River Kaveri 

Rishi Agatsya and The Kaveri Story

Once upon a time, Rishi Agastya sought the blessings of Lord Brahma and Shiva. The sage wished to create flowing river in a suitable location to offer water to the southern lands. The Gods, listening to his prayers, had his kamandalu filled with sacred water. The Sage then reached the Coorg Mountains. On his way, he spotted a small boy and requested him to take good care of his pot containing water as he needed to go to get fresh.

The small boy was none other than Ganesha and he placed the small pot on the ground as he felt that location was perfect for a river. Then a crow landed on this pot and Sage Agastya shooed off the bird. The crow flew off tipping the pot to the ground and spilled off some water.

Learning: Be Positive

It can be distressing to think that bad things happen merely through chance or accident. But they do. The saying that everything happens for a reason is the modern, New Age version of the old religious saying: “It’s God’s will”. Every action happens for a good cause. So do not be worried even if something bad happens in your life, eventually there will be a good ending.

Ganesha and The Moon Curse

Ganesha Curses The Moon

One night Lord Ganesha went for a ride on his mouse. The tiny mouse could not bear his weight and tripped. The moon started laughing at the funny sight. Ganesha got angry and cursed the moon saying that anyone who looks at the moon on the night of the Ganesh Chaturthi will be falsely accused. The moon begged Ganesha to remove the curse and Ganesha also realized that he had overreacted but he could not take the curse back.

Learning: Don’t Act Always on Impulse

In Seneca’s words, “Be not too hasty either with praise or blame; speak always as though you were giving evidence before the judgement-seat of the Gods.” Always think before you react because anger passes on but actions remain. So next time you feel the blood rushing down your veins a tad faster, take your emotional temperature and allow yourself to cool down. You will be amazed by the change in your perspective regarding the situation and how to deal with it.

Vakratunda Avatar and Matsaryasur

Vakratunda Avatar

Matsaryasur was a ferocious demon who worshiped Lord Shiva and asked him for the boon of immortality. Shiva blessed Matsayasur and said that he will not be destroyed by any human, god or demon. Enraged with power, the demon started crushing the three worlds. Lord Ganesha transformed into Vakratunda and captured Matsaryasur. However, when Matsara begged for forgiveness, the Vakratunda set him free and peace was restored.

Learning: Forgive and Move On

Forgiveness in the words of Swartz, “It is an active process in which you make a conscious decision to let go of negative feelings whether the person deserves it or not.” Keeping scores, trying to get even and pulling-down always make you less than what you are. Moreover, the energy you invest into holding a grudge steals energy from other important things.

Studies have found that the act of forgiveness can reap huge rewards for your health, lowering the risk of heart attack; improving cholesterol levels and sleep; and reducing pain, blood pressure , and levels of anxiety, depression and stress.

Disclaimer: The author of this post informs readers that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong to the author. The author respects the religious sentiments, thoughts and feelings of every individual, caste, sect, cult, group etc. and does not intend to hurt or humiliate any religious feeling of any individual, group, caste, cult, sect, faith etc. This Blog Post is created and solely to guide and impart knowledge and co-relate the learning from the stories mentioned in this blog post.

6 Ways to Build Momentum

Have you ever taken on a task that seems so complicated you don’t even know where to begin? Once you do jump into it, you often find yourself in the swing where you’ve built up so much productive momentum that you feel unstoppable. The creative juices are flowing and you’re accomplishing tasks left and right. This is a great feeling, but getting there can sometimes prove to be extremely difficult. Here are some suggestions to help you get to that point with built-up momentum and maximum productive potential.

 

 

 

1. Prioritize your Work.

You may have several things to do, but tackling the most challenging task first can help you accomplish what you need to when you are freshest, starting your day. So make a list of what needs to be done, and then prioritize the list so that the most important tasks are the ones you do first. This can help you avoid distractions and help you get things done.

2. Remember- You are the Boss.

You are your own boss. Although that fact does come with its fair share of stress and responsibility, it also comes with the freedom to schedule your workday to accomplish your most important tasks and execute them to the optimum level. Maximize the benefits of being in control by delegating tasks to team members when possible. Ask for help when you need it, and take breaks when you are feeling too overwhelmed. Sometimes, just the thought of being in the driver’s seat of your business is enough to get you through a difficult project.

       Short Story:

John, a professional Photographer was told that a Twin-Engine Plane would be Waiting at the Airport.

Arriving at the Airport he spotted a Plane warming up outside the hanger.

He jumped in, said ‘Lets go’.

The Pilot taxied and took off.

Once in the air John told the Pilot: ‘Fly Low over the Valley so I can take Pictures of the Fire on the hill’

Pilot : Why.?

John : Bcoz I’m the Photographer for CNN. I need to get some close up shots.

Pilot was strangely silent for a moment, then he stammered ‘So, what You’re telling me is . . . You’re Not My Flying Instructor’?.

Life is Short...

Always ASK, NEVER ASSUME.!

3. Block all negative thoughts and stay positive.

You’ve no doubt heard about the power of positive self-talk. Not surprisingly, negative self-talk is just as powerful, so it’s important that you tune it out. Anytime you catch yourself having a negative thought, remember that it is only hindering your productivity, not helping it. Replace it with a positive thought or motivational message. Positivity goes a long way in building the momentum you need to accomplish your goals.

4. Be focused and avoid distractions.

What types of things distract you from working on the task at hand? Is it your phone, your peers, market rejections or failures in past performances that distract you? Maybe you should put all these on sleep mode. Reward yourself with some “fun” time on your social networks when you’re done with your project. Socialize with friends other than work. Distractions come in all shapes and sizes, so identify what distracts you and put yourself in a situation where they don’t get in your way. Remain focused on your desired goals to maintain your momentum.

5. Stay away from negative people.

Some people display negative behavior always : constantly complaining, persistently blaming others, and always having a reason they don’t succeed. These people should not be in your immediate circle, and they certainly shouldn’t work for you, as they may bring down not only you but your team as well. Surround yourself with people who will be your cheerleaders, motivators and who are as ambitious and result oriented as you are. You will be much better equipped to build your momentum with positive people around you.

6. Keep Records- Maintain a Tally.

The busier our lives become, the harder it gets to remember what we actually accomplished by the end of the day or week. Keep some sort of tally or list to remind you what you completed and motivate you to continue. Such a record will also serve show you how much you are really accomplishing on a regular basis.

Building momentum is crucial to continuous goal accomplishment in your business...!

 

PUT THE GLASS DOWN TODAY!

Read this small story; Hope that makes a BIG change in YOU
The Professor began his class by holding up a glass with some water in it. He held it up for all to see & asked the students “How much do you think this glass weighs?"
'50gms!'..... '100gms!' .....'125gms' ...the students answered.
"I really don't know unless I weigh it," said the professor, "but, my question is:
What would happen if I held it up like this for a few minutes?"
'Nothing' …..the students said.
'Ok what would happen if I held it up like this for an hour?' the professor asked.
'Your arm would begin to ache' said one of the student
"You're right, now what would happen if I held it for a day?"
"Your arm could go numb; you might have severe muscle stress & paralysis & have to go to hospital for sure!"
….. Ventured another student & all the students laughed
"Very good.
But during all this, did the weight of the glass change?" Asked the professor.
'No'…. Was the answer.
"Then what caused the arm ache & the muscle stress?"
The students were puzzled.
"What should I do now to come out of pain?" asked professor again.
"Put the glass down!" said one of the students
"Exactly!" said the professor.
Life's problems are something like this.
Hold it for a few minutes in your head & they seem OK.
Think of them for a long time & they begin to ache.
Hold it even longer & they begin to paralyze you. You will not be able to do anything.

It's important to think of the challenges or problems in your life, But EVEN MORE IMPORTANT is to 'PUT THEM DOWN' at the end of every day before you go to sleep...
That way, you are not stressed, you wake up every day fresh &strong & can handle any issue, any challenge that comes your way!

So, when you start your day today, Remember friend to ‘PUT THE GLASS DOWN TODAY! '