Each year comes with new dreams, new goals and new hopes. For me, I am going to ponder and work towards two major issues that I believe will affect my life and general well-being positively this year. I am penning it down for motivation and personal checklist as I work and walk my way to success.

Thinking about it, so many areas of my life need attention, but I won’t clog my bucket list. In order of priority for 2024, I will be very focusing on my Health and Nature. SO, I CHOOSE TO BE MORE INTENTIONAL ABOUT THESE TWO THIS YEAR!

HEALTH INTENTIONALITY

Reflecting over the years, I am grateful for God’s grace of good health. I can’t take that for granted. Yes, I have the regular fatigue, aches, malaria and its likes but, NOTHING MAJOR! However, I have come to realize that as we grow older, there must be self-consciousness about one’s health. Poor health is a dream killer! On my own part, I have maintained discipline in certain areas of my life like step walking, treadmill workout, general body exercises, healthy eating (sometimes) but, I can’t recall the last time I had a comprehensive health checkup. I need to have one done this year; God help me!

There are a million and one reasons that can pop up why going the extra for our health should not take top priority on our expenditure list. I totally understand that the present state of our economy is really on the low; such that our income is saddled with a heap of bills. We must however understand that regular checkups keep us on the safe side of quality life. Early detection of some ailment has cures, while late detection may cost more to treat and can be life threatening, or in some instances robs the victim of quality life, FOREVER! In essence, it will take a lot less resources (time, effort and money) to prevent than to cure!!

NATURE INTENTIONALITY

Mother nature has been kind to us all, especially in this part of the world. When nature (plants to be specific) is nurtured and well preserved, it is a beautiful sight to behold. A little effort to preserve it and help the ecosystem is my intentional goal for the year. Again, I say, so help me God!

Choosing Nature as my second intentionality this year is borne out of my love to watch something I nurture from zero, grow and blossom beautifully. In time past, I admit being guilty of unintentionally neglecting some of my plants due to overwhelming daily activities. Sadly, most of them withered away. Henceforth, I am going to plant, nurture and watch nature grow with me this year. It is therapeutic! It affirms my believe that by God’s grace, nothing in my care wither away or die and this makes me happy!

WHAT EXACTLY IS THE POINT IN MY POST?

Be intentional in your activities this year. Look around you and within you for ideas, projects, events that can make you happy. And it doesn’t have to cost money. Do beneficial things for yourself first. Yes! Live for YOU only then you can be a blessing to others

Now to others let’s share some love, kindness, patience, tolerance, giving more at work, service to God and humanity – whatever positives your heart tilts towards doing this year. Do it INTENTIONALLY! Let your MANTRA be “If you are not the reason why there is a smile on someone’s face, pray not to be the reason for the tears”!

A piece of self-advice before I sign off this post – Do not be intentional about too many things. You will end up being unintentional about everything! Pick one or two and go for it. Being INTENTIONAL and with God on your side, whatever you choose would be off your bucket list EOY 2024.

All the best and cheers to the New Year!!

The term “cocktail” can have a few different meanings, depending on the context. Cocktails are a delicious and versatile way to enjoy a variety of flavours. However, in this context, it has been used figuratively to describe a different blend of leadership styles in a rapidly changing environment. It throws more light into the fact that no one style of leadership fits all.
Just like a skilled bartender crafts the perfect cocktail by blending different spirits and mixers, effective leaders combine various leadership styles to navigate different situations and bring out the best in their teams.
In a dynamic operating environment characterized by rapid change, uncertainty, and complexity, a leader in this type of situation is like a man sailing on a stormy sea, where he needs to constantly adjust his sails and course to stay afloat.
This type of operating environment throws constant curveballs (deviation), demanding a unique breed of leader. These set of leaders need specific set of traits to navigate the twists and turns while keeping their team on track.
I believe there are some key traits that work together to create a powerful leadership cocktail for a dynamic environment. An effective leader does not have all the answers but inspires and guides his team through the inevitable ups and downs in the course of their day-to-day operations.
Here are some examples of “cocktail leadership styles” in action:
The Motivational Mojito:
• A dash of Transformational Leadership (inspiring a shared vision and purpose), a squeeze of Democratic Leadership (encouraging team participation and buy-in), and a splash of Coaching Leadership (providing constructive feedback and development opportunities). Shake with enthusiasm, positive reinforcement, and a focus on personal growth. Garnish with a slice of empowerment (giving team members ownership and autonomy).
Imagine a leader rallying their team with a clear vision for the future, while actively listening to their ideas and providing the support they need to excel. This creates a dynamic and motivated environment where everyone feels valued and invested in the shared success.
The Calm Cosmopolitan:
• A measure of Servant Leadership (putting the needs of others first), a twist of Situational Leadership (adapting approach based on team member experience), and a blend of Emotional Intelligence (understanding and managing emotions effectively). Stir with empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution skills. Garnish with a sprig of Resilience (remaining calm and composed under pressure).
Imagine a leader navigating a challenging situation with grace and understanding. They actively listen to concerns, adjust their approach to different team members’ needs, and provide emotional support while guiding the team towards a solution. This fosters a trusting and collaborative environment where everyone feels heard and supported.
The Bold Old Fashioned:
• A shot of Directive Leadership (providing clear instructions and expectations), a muddle of Visionary Leadership (setting ambitious goals and pushing boundaries), and a dash of Decisiveness. Muddle with confidence, strong communication skills, and a willingness to take calculated risks. Garnish with a cherry of Accountability (holding both themselves and the team responsible for results).
Imagine a leader taking charge in a time-sensitive situation. They clearly communicate the plan, set ambitious goals, and make quick decisions while encouraging accountability across the team. This can be effective in tackling complex challenges and driving rapid progress.
Effective leaders continuously assess the situation, the team, and their strengths for a successful outcome. You can craft the perfect leadership blend to inspire, motivate, and guide your team towards achieving their full potential using any of the cocktail leadership styles highlighted.
From my perspectives and what has worked for me, here are some 4 key leadership traits that could be applied in a dynamic operating environment:
1. Agility and Adaptability:
• Embrace change: A good leader should not fear the unknown; he should see it as an opportunity to pivot and grow. Leaders should be comfortable adjusting strategies and plans on the go.
• Think fast and act quickly: Decisiveness is crucial in fast-paced environments. Leaders need to assess situations promptly and make informed decisions without getting bogged down in deliberation.
• Be solution-oriented: Focus on finding answers, not dwelling on problems. Leaders should encourage innovative thinking and experimentation to overcome challenges.
2. Communication and Collaboration:
• Transparent communication: A good leader should keep everyone informed of changes, challenges, and opportunities. Open and honest communication builds trust and fosters collaboration.
• Active listening: A good leader should pay close attention to team members’ concerns and ideas. Be receptive to feedback and suggestions, even if they contradict your initial plans.
• Delegation and empowerment: A good leader should trust his team with ownership and accountability. Delegate tasks effectively and empower them to make decisions and take initiative.
3. Resilience and Emotional Intelligence:
• Navigate uncertainty: Don’t crumble under pressure; stay calm and composed during turbulent times. Lead by example with a positive and confident attitude.
• Empathy and understanding: A good leader should recognize and acknowledge the emotions of his team members. Offer support and guidance during times of change and uncertainty.
• Learn from mistakes: View setbacks as learning opportunities. Encourage a culture of growth and continuous improvement where mistakes are seen as stepping stones, not failures.
4. Strategic Thinking and Vision:
• Keep the big picture in mind: Don’t get lost in the daily grind. Leaders need to maintain a clear vision for the team’s goals and how they fit into the bigger picture.
• Anticipate change: Proactively identify potential challenges and opportunities. Leaders should have the foresight to prepare for what’s ahead and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Take calculated risks: A good leader should not be afraid to explore new ideas and venture outside your comfort zone. Calculated risks can lead to innovation and breakthroughs.

Be a good leader today…. and be remembered for life and for Good!