
Why leaders should learn to value the boundary spanners
Entrepreneurial talent who work with other teams often run into trouble with their managers. Here are ways to get the most out of your ‘boundary spanners’...
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by Francesca Giulia Mereu Published October 3, 2024 in Brain Circuits • 3 min read
Content creator Janis Ozolins identifies four main dynamics (pictured below) that can have this effect, especially when we feel tired or overwhelmed. Do any apply to you? If so, check out these handy tips to jump out of the loop and back into your flow.Â
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Strength: ImprovingÂ
If overplayed, it can become a quest to reach Planet Perfect.Â
Tip: Check whether what you have now is fit for purpose with a trusted peer. If so, let it go!Â
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Strength: CreatingÂ
If overplayed, it can create chaos!
Tip: Sketch or write down one idea and go through the pros and cons aloud.Â
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Strength: ReflectingÂ
If overplayed, it can transform thoughts into a stagnant pond of contemplation.Â
Tip: Get out of your head – take a three-minute break, breathe out, and walk around.Â
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Strength: Desire to acquire knowledge.Â
If overplayed, it can evolve into a journey of endless discovery.Â
Tip: Put a visual clue on your screen or desk to remind yourself to implement.Â
To avoid getting trapped in the loop in the first place, watch out for the physical symptoms that act as early warning signs. Has something become different in your voice, gestures, or choice of words? Are you breathing faster or feeling jittery? Has your posture changed or become rigid? Do you find yourself transfixed and staring into space? If so, down tools, breathe deeply and take a proper break from the task at hand – and don’t return to it until you have forgotten what it was you were doing!
Executive coach
An executive coach with over 25 years of experience, she is also the author of Recharge Your Batteries and a certified yoga teacher. Her “Energy Check” is available online. She regularly works with the Center of Competence on Humanitarian Negotiation (CCHN) and at IMD with senior leaders of global organizations. Follow her LinkedIn Group on managing your energy.
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