Emotion to Passion, a Roadmap for Serenity in Organization.
Even the most dedicated traveler will come across pitfalls on his journey. Every organization will have to deal with the tepidity in enthusiasm of its members. Each family has to gauge its emotional barometer. The Master tells his worried disciples after he predicted his imminent death, “You must have joy that the world cannot take away.” The art of ‘emotional management’ helps us to remain resilient and handle success and failure with equal grace, grace from above. It is more than a matter of faith, as sincere efforts are required to harness our power, direct our efforts and purify our intentions. The directives of the GC 25 of the Salesians of Don Bosco, are a testament to be passionate, especially as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the founding of the congregation. Let us enumerate some handy strategies on this adventure of living with passion.
1. Celebrate Small Achievements
When we are climbing a mountain, we must be aware where the peak is. But constant gaze at the peak might send jitters down our spine, and mounting tiredness to our feet. But enjoying every step and the company of fellow climbers will make the journey a wonderful memory and a confidence booster to take on the next peak.
2. Focus on the Mission
As we celebrate the small achievements, it is a temptation to get lost on the side walks of life. Proving one’s worth, establishing one’s power, asserting one’s authority, stamping one’s ego, could be detrimental to the achievement of the mission of the organization. “It is not for me to decide who will get positions of power in the kingdom” the Master reminded his disciples.
3. Rise above Mediocrity
Playing safe in a big organization is a great temptation. Organizations reward mediocrity mistaking it for ‘fidelity’. The challenge is to rise above yesterday’s achievements in spite of day’s failures. Never get into a ‘comfort zone’ of ‘it’s all I am capable or expected.’ “When I am lifted up I will draw all” the Master declared.
4. Healthy Competition
Having a shared vision with limited resources, could fuel a sense of competition of who gets what! A sense of undue competition especially when it smacks of division based on cultural differences can toll the knell of mission of the organization. Yet the runners on a track get the best out of each one with a healthy sense of competition.
5. Constancy with Urgency
The tortoise /hare combination is a must in any organization. Teaming with people who can complement one another is a great asset. Personnel management to build teams is an essential skill that leadership in organizations must learn. “The Lord sent them out in pairs to proclaim the good news.”
6. Let Go of Perfectionism
Each member in an organization must value self. While rising above mediocrity and being a self critic, the human element shines through only with positive self talk. God expects the best effort from each individual, and the results will be varied as the talents and limitations of each differ. Understanding the concept of ‘when I am weak, then I am strong’ of Saint Paul will make the journey towards perfection purposeful and the failures along the path meaningful.
7. Handle Emotions with Care
Our emotions are such a natural part of our existence that we take them for granted. They allow us to experience the textures and colors of life. Without them, we can still climb a mountain and spend time with our community and friends, but what’s the point? Emotion gives meaning to our lives. Their power is amazing. Emotions drive many of our decisions and actions, for better or worse. They build energy assets to add to our quality of life or create energy deficits that rob us of vitality. Emotions are complex, which is why they are often difficult to understand. They come and go very quickly in an almost endless stream of overt and subtle forms. Depending on circumstance we can feel many different emotions in just a short span of time. If we’re going to have balanced, enjoyable lives we need to focus more on learning how to consciously adjust our emotions. The head and heart connection that people make is all important or people can turn into garbage trucks, unloading their highly volatile emotional nuclear waste on easily available targets. This is a life-long process and only the persons with a reflective attitude can fine tune their lives.
In essence, communication, teamwork and creativity are enhanced when people are operating in an environment with greater emotional management. It is no wonder that Don Bosco encouraged ‘family spirit’ to be a hall mark of his congregation.
I wish you a wonderful celebration of the Jubilees and Anniversary. Finally I use this space to thank you for making this journey of ten years as the Editor of this Salesian Family Bulletin a meaningful experience. I take leave of this privilege with a sense of achievement and gratitude. God bless You!
