In this podcast, Chris Walker discusses integrating abstract thinking into daily work to avoid becoming overly robotic and mundane. He emphasizes the value of staying present, being persistent, and allowing the day to unfold naturally rather than forcing it into a predetermined narrative. Chris also highlights the power of controlling one’s narrative, especially when reflecting on the past, to shape a more positive and inspiring future. He concludes by encouraging listeners to stay real, embrace the messiness of life, and continue practising conscious leadership.

PODCAST

The Importance of Abstract Thinking

In the journey of conscious leadership, particularly in the fourth level, it’s essential to take time during your day to step out of the concrete tasks and engage in abstract thinking. Our minds are naturally rational, much like artificial intelligence, but we risk becoming robotised if we only focus on thinking and meetings. The true value of a person lies in their ability to think abstractly and explore the “what ifs” and “maybes” of life. This type of thinking keeps you engaged and prevents the mundane nature of daily tasks from overwhelming you. In these moments of abstract thought, new possibilities arise, often sparking ideas that can transform your day.

The North Star: Knowing Your Purpose

A key lesson in conscious leadership is having a clear purpose—your North Star. This is the “last page of your book,” the impact you want to leave on the world. It’s crucial to drop hints about this purpose throughout your day, subtly guiding your actions and decisions. While goals are important, letting your day naturally evolve is vital rather than forcing it into a predefined mould. Trying to control every aspect of your day can lead to frustration and stress, ultimately making your work feel inauthentic. Instead, embrace the flow of your day and adapt to what comes naturally.

Authenticity Over Spin

During your workday, there’s often a temptation to spin results to fit a narrative you’ve already decided on. However, authenticity is key to true success. By resonating with what is happening, you take your power back, allowing you to engage with your day meaningfully. This authenticity is crucial, not just in how you present yourself to others, but in how you engage with the tasks. Embracing reality, even when it doesn’t align with your expectations, leads to a more genuine and fulfilling experience.

The Art of Persistence

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned and often share with my clients is the art of persistence. Whether working on a keynote, a report, or any challenging task, persistence is the key to overcoming obstacles. This doesn’t mean forcing yourself through discomfort without reason but showing up, sitting down, and doing the work even when low motivation is. A great sense of accomplishment comes from muscling through uncertainty and completing something you weren’t sure you could finish. Persistence is more than just staying at your desk—it’s about committing to the process and being present in the moment.

Presence and Engagement: Lessons from the Mountains

When I take people trekking in the mountains of Nepal, the journey often involves hours of uphill walking, far beyond what anyone has trained for. The key to making it through these challenging moments is to stay present and engaged. It’s not about reaching the top as quickly as possible but about appreciating each step, each flower, and each view along the way. When you focus on the process rather than the end goal, you avoid the negative self-talk derailing your efforts. Staying present helps you persist, even when the going gets tough.

The Power of Your Narrative

Finally, one of the most powerful tools you have is the ability to control the narrative of your day. When you walk through the door at the end of the day and someone asks how it went, you can choose how you respond. You can focus on what went wrong or reframe the day’s events in a positive light. This doesn’t mean being dishonest but rather highlighting opportunities and lessons learned rather than dwelling on failures—the narrative you choose to tell about your past shapes your future. A positive, forward-looking narrative empowers you and inspires those around you.

Conclusion: Embrace the Power of Your Story

In closing, remember that how you tell the story of your past—whether it’s about a single day or your entire life—has a profound impact on your future. By embracing persistence, maintaining authenticity, and focusing on the positive aspects of your narrative, you can set the stage for a successful and fulfilling journey. Stay inspired, stay real, and keep practising these principles daily.

If this resonates with you, share it with someone who might benefit from these insights. Until next time, stay inspired.