The formula: H=N+F+K
Habit = Need + Frequency + Knowledge
“The Young Ladies of Avignon” is considered to be the first masterpiece of the 20th century, although Picasso was harshly criticized when it was first exhibited. Monet didn’t have an easy time of it either with his ground-breaking paintings, so much so that he event attempted suicide, driven on by his apparent failure. And what can we say about van Gogh, who only managed to sell one painting in his lifetime? Many of the great artists were rebels and had to brave the criticism or lack of understanding of their contemporaries; and this was not always an easy path to tread. “Masterpieces” do not appear by chance; questions of genius apart, the great artists undertook a common journey: they learnt in schools or studios (which explains the lack of women among the “greats” as, (more…)
If the current crisis is achieving one thing and nothing else, it’s bringing out the best in some people and, unfortunately, the worst in others. For example, only a few months ago the mantra in the business world was that talent and innovation were priority areas, and office walls were covered with slogans to that effect; however, now that things are getting more difficult, rather different attitudes are making an appearance. (more…)
Control for control’s sake could well be the motto of many companies. A friend of mine, who has just been appointed as the managing director of an American multinational corporation, told me about his own frustrating attempts to improve the people management in his own company. (more…)
Twenty-five centuries ago, the Greek dramatist Euripides remarked: “The expected does not happen, it’s the unexpected which comes to pass”. This is indeed often the case, both in the economic and social realm. All of a sudden, unexpected events occur which radically change our outlook and leave profound consequences. (more…)
