What I didn’t expect was how it would rewire my thinking, sharpen my decisions, and make complex problems feel effortless. Making strategic thinking and decision-making became more intuitive.

What I learnt from the neuroscience research was that every time I practiced a management tool, I was reinforcing a neural pathway in my brain.

Just like a dirt road becomes a highway with repeated use, my ability to think strategically, solve problems, and make decisions got faster and stronger.

What I liked most about this project was that I could convert the learning into a simple 10-minute morning ritual.

I’m excited to share my 30-day challenge journey with you, where just 10 minutes a day helped rewire my brain for more effective leadership.

I’m sure you’ll agree that this is a small but powerful habit that anyone can embrace to sharpen their leadership skills.

I call this a competency gym, my Cerebral Brawn.

You may wonder what the term ‘cerebral brawn’ means. Here’s a short definition -

Cerebral Brawn is the intellectual equivalent of body building
It is the development of powerful mental faculties through consistent practice
It's about transforming your brain into a high-performance machine, where strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving become effortlessly strong and intuitive, much like a well-trained muscle.

Try it out. This could be a game changing personality branding act.

Please find all the 30 practice sheets below.

Practice sheets

Tool 01/30 - The Paradox Theory

Tool 02/30 - PESTLE Framework

Tool 03/30 - Kotter's Change Model

Tool 04/30 - Blue Ocean Strategy

Tool 05/30 - Lencioni's Five Dysfunctions of a Team

Tool 06/30 - Reverse Thinking

Tool 07/30 - Dreyfus Model

Tool 08/30 - Value Stream Mapping

Tool 09/30 - SWOT

Tool 10/30 - 5S Methodology

Tool 11/30 - Ikigai

Tool 12/30 - 5W1H

Tool 13/30 - TQM

Tool 14/30 - GROW

Tool 15/30 - MBTI

Tool 16/30 - VUCA

Tool 17/30 - Root Cause Analysis

Tool 18/30 - CSR Framework

Tool 19/30 - Balanced Scorecard

Tool 20/30 - Maslow's Pyramid

Tool 21/30 - Eisenhower Matrix

Tool 22/30 - Pareto Analysis

Tool 23/30 - Inquiry-based Learning

Tool 24/30 - Socratic Questioning

Tool 25/30 - Competency-based Hiring

Tool 26/30 - EI Model

Tool 27/30 - Design Thinking

Tool 28/30 - OKRs

Tool 29/30 - Rational Decision-Making Model

Tool 30/30 - Interest-Based Relational (IBR) Approach

PMI of Cerebral Brawn

(Thanks to Edward de Bono for creating PMI, the thinking tool)

Plus

Release of happiness chemicals

Building of neural highway leading to more efficient recall and application of that knowledge over time

Development of brain areas that help us enhance thinking and productivity

Career enhancement thanks to demonstrable expertise in real life

Enhancement of personal brand

Minus

Decreased flexibility

Misalignment with real needs

Potential for neglecting other skills

Interesting

The daily practice builds knowledge but does it add to wisdom? Interesting to know

Luckily, there is no age bar for this learning. I started learning at 71😀

Will this daily practice make me arrogant?

Will I be seen as a big show off? How can I mitigate this perception?

Could it cause blind spots in intuition, risk-taking, or human connection?

Hybrid potential – Pairing cerebral brawn with emotional depth, physical routines, or artistic flair can lead to powerful synergy.

The background

The background to this project is the ‘competency awareness’ workshop^[1] that we conducted for the management team of Divgi TTS in July/ Aug 2024.

The innovative aspect of the workshop was

Teach each competency/ expected behaviour using one management tool
Show how the tool can be applied (we used stories from Greek and Hindu mythologies e.g. How Ram conducted a recruitment interview for Hanuman using competency based hiring! Or how Jason employed the Argonauts in his quest for the Golden Fleece. It was great fun)
Ask the team to think of any past event where he/ she can apply the tool
Do team sharing of the tool application and upload stories using Google Form (we shared upwards of 900 stories)

The whole experience triggered this invention of Cerebral Brawn - a ten minute learning as a daily morning ritual.

Sharing below the 30 competencies we covered in the workshop.

I am grateful to Mr Jiten Divgi, MD and Mr Gopal Dalvi, Head of HR for collaborating for this awesome experiment🙏.

Competency definition

What is competency?

Knowledge - An individual’s understanding of facts or information. Knowledge provides the basis for performing a skill
Skill - The behaviors that an individual must be able to demonstrate in order to accomplish committed work applying the knowledge he/ she gained
Process abilities - The capacity to perform individual skills in the specific method used in the organization

Source: People Capability Maturity Model

What are competency levels

Novice - A complete beginner with no prior experience. Relies heavily on rigid, context-free rules and instructions. Performance is often slow, clumsy, and requires significant conscious effort. Struggles to adapt when situations deviate from learned rules (Example: A brand new chess player only knows how each piece moves and applies simple rules like "capture any undefended piece.")
Advanced Beginner - Has some experience, allowing them to recognize basic recurring situational elements and apply "maxims" (general guidelines) in addition to strict rules. Can perform tasks with some independence but still struggles with prioritizing or managing complex situations (Example: The chess player might start to recognize a "fork" pattern and apply the maxim "don't let your pieces be forked," but still has trouble prioritizing which piece to save or whether the fork is truly dangerous)
Competent - Has gained enough experience to start seeing the "big picture" and can consciously choose a plan or perspective for a situation. Can prioritize, organize, and execute tasks more efficiently. Makes decisions based on analytical reasoning and past experiences, but might still struggle with unforeseen circumstances or when their chosen plan isn't working. Feels a strong sense of responsibility for outcomes (Example: The chess player can develop a basic opening strategy (e.g., "control the center") and choose moves that support this plan, but might get stuck if the opponent deviates unexpectedly)
Proficient - Possesses a holistic understanding of situations and can intuitively grasp the overall context and nuances. Less reliant on rigid rules, they can adapt plans as circumstances change and anticipate potential problems. Decisions begin to rely more on intuition based on deep experience, though analytical thought is still used for novel or highly complex issues (Example: The chess player can quickly assess the board, recognize patterns, and develop a flexible game plan. They "feel" when a move is bad and can adjust their strategy on the fly)
Expert - Operates with a deep, intuitive, and almost effortless understanding of their domain. They no longer rely on rules or even conscious analysis for most situations, performing tasks fluidly and precisely. They can immediately recognize patterns, identify the core problem, and arrive at optimal solutions without conscious deliberation. They are often capable of innovation and defining new approaches (Example: The expert chess grandmaster plays moves that seem intuitively right, seeing many steps ahead and understanding the subtle dynamics of the board without needing to consciously calculate every possibility. Their "intuition" is a result of vast accumulated experience and pattern recognition).

Source: Dreyfus Model of Skill Acquisition

The thirty leadership competencies

Business Acumen

Role model behaviour

Understands business operations and market dynamics; stays informed about current and emerging policies, practices, trends, and relevant industry developments; possesses awareness of competitors and comprehends how strategies and tactics influence market success.

Tools for practicing

SWOT
Porter's Five Forces
Balanced Scorecard

Suggested books

"Good Strategy Bad Strategy: The Difference and Why It Matters" by Richard Rumelt
"Competitive Strategy: Techniques for Analyzing Industries and Competitors" by Michael E. Porter
"Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant" by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne

Strategic Agility

Role model behaviour

Has a clear vision of the future, accurately anticipates trends and potential outcomes, and possesses broad knowledge and perspective. Thinks strategically, effectively communicates compelling visions of possibilities, and develops innovative, competitive strategies and plans

Tools for practicing

Design Thinking
Agile Methodology
Scenario Planning

Suggested books

"The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses" by Eric Ries
"Seeing Around Corners: How to Spot Inflection Points in Business Before They Happen" by Rita McGrath
"The Innovator's Dilemma: The Revolutionary Book that Will Change the Way You Do Business" by Clayton M. Christensen

Priority Setting

Role model behaviour

Prioritizes effectively, ensuring time and effort are spent on what truly matters. Quickly identifies key priorities while setting aside less critical tasks. Recognizes factors that drive or obstruct success, removes obstacles, and fosters a focused, goal-oriented approach

Tools for practicing

Eisenhower Matrix
MoSCoW Method
Pareto Principle

Suggested books

"Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time" by Brian Tracy
"Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less" by Greg McKeown
"The 4 Disciplines of Execution: Achieving Your Wildly Important Goals" by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim Huling

Customer Focus

Role model behaviour

Committed to understanding and fulfilling the needs of both internal and external customers. Actively gathers customer insights to enhance products and services, keeps customer interests at the forefront, builds strong relationships, and earns trust and respect through reliable and customer-focused actions

Tools for practicing

TQM
Customer Journey Mapping
Net Promoter Score

Suggested books

"The Thank You Economy" by Gary Vaynerchuk
"Customer Centricity: Focus on the Right Customers for Strategic Advantage" by Peter Fader
"Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose" by Tony Hsieh

Managing Vision and Purpose

Role model behaviour

Articulates an inspiring and purpose-driven vision, looking beyond the present to explore future possibilities with optimism. Establishes clear milestones and symbols to unite and energize others, making the vision accessible and engaging for all. Motivates and inspires teams or entire organizations to rally behind a shared purpose.

Tools for practicing

Balanced Scorecard
Hoshin Kanri
McKinsey 7-S Framework

Suggested books

"Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action" by Simon Sinek
"Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies" by Jim Collins and Jerry Porras
"The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life" by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander

Decision Quality

Role model behaviour

Consistently makes sound decisions by combining analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment—prioritizing accuracy over speed. Their solutions prove effective over time, earning them trust as a go-to advisor for guidance and problem-solving.

Tools for practicing

Rational Decision-Making Model
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Game theory

Suggested books

"Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman
"Decisive: How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
"The Art of Choosing" by Sheena Iyengar

Motivating Others

Role model behaviour

Inspires a culture where people are motivated to give their best. Understands individual drivers and leverages them to unlock potential. Empowers teams by delegating tasks, encouraging input, and sharing ownership. Fosters a sense of purpose, making each person feel valued. A leader people trust, respect, and enjoy working with.

Tools for practicing

Maslow's pyramid
Behavioral Reinforcement Theory
Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory

Suggested books

"Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" by Daniel H. Pink
"Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't" by Simon Sinek
"Primal Leadership: Unleashing the Power of Emotional Intelligence" by Daniel Goleman, Richard E. Boyatzis, and Annie McKee

Hiring and Staffing

Role model behaviour

Recognizes and attracts top talent, selecting the best candidates from both internal and external pools. Confident in hiring strong, high-performing individuals, ensuring a well-rounded and capable team. Builds and nurtures exceptional teams that drive success, fostering an environment where talent thrives and contributes to organizational excellence.

Tools for practicing

Competency-based hiring
Strategic workforce planning
Gallup’s Q12

Suggested books

"Who: The A Method for Hiring" by Geoff Smart and Randy Street
"Topgrading, 3rd Edition: The Proven Hiring and Promoting Method That Turbocharges Company Performance" by Bradford D. Smart
"The Best Team Wins: Build Your Business Through Predictive Hiring" by Adam Robinson

People Acumen

Role model behaviour

Demonstrates keen insight into talent, quickly recognizing strengths and development areas in individuals both inside and outside the organization. Assesses potential with accuracy, anticipating how people are likely to perform in diverse situations. Uses this judgment to make informed decisions that enhance team and organizational success.

Tools for practicing

Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
Emotional Intelligence Framework
Thomas-Kilmann conflict management model

Suggested books

"Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking" by Malcolm Gladwell
"What Every Body is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent's Guide to Speed-Reading People" by Joe Navarro
"Emotional Intelligence 2.0" by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves

Transparent Communication

Role model behaviour

Ensures people have the right information to perform effectively and feel valued as part of the team or organization. Shares relevant insights promptly, enabling informed decision-making. Communicates with clarity and transparency, fostering trust and alignment across teams.

Tools for practicing

5W1H
AIDA Model
SKS feedback technique

Suggested books

"Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity" by Kim Scott
"The Trusted Advisor" by David H. Maister, Charles H. Green, and Robert M. Galford
"Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High" by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler

Team Catalyst

Role model behaviour

Builds cohesive teams with strong morale and shared purpose. Celebrates wins, fosters open dialogue, and empowers individuals to take ownership. Encourages collaboration, defines success collectively, and cultivates a deep sense of belonging, ensuring every team member feels valued and accountable.

Tools for practicing

Lencioni's five dysfunctions of a team,
Tuckman’s stages
Beckhard’s GRPI Model

Suggested books

"The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable" by Patrick Lencioni
"Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World" by General Stanley McChrystal
"The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups" by Daniel Coyle

Integrity in Action

Role model behaviour

Leads with integrity, consistently upholding core values in all situations. Aligns actions with principles, setting an example for others. Recognizes and reinforces ethical behavior while addressing misalignment. Demonstrates authenticity by practicing what they preach, fostering trust and accountability across the organization.

Tools for practicing

Triple Bottom Line
CSR framework
Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development

Suggested books

"Ethics for the Real World: Creating a Personal Code to Guide Decisions in Work and Life" by Ronald A. Howard and Clinton D. Korver
"Principled Leadership: A Practical Guide for Business Professionals" by Charles F. Dwyer and Leonard J. Brooks
"Leading with Integrity: Character-Based Leadership" by Dr. Bruce Winston

Innovation Management

Role model behaviour

Effectively nurtures and brings creative ideas to market, discerning which innovations have real potential. Skillfully guides the creative process, fosters productive brainstorming, and enables others to refine and execute ideas. Anticipates market impact, ensuring ideas are both innovative and viable for success.

Tools for practicing

Blue Ocean Strategy
TRIZ
SCAMPER Technique

Suggested books

"The Innovator's Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail" by Clayton M. Christensen
"Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All" by Tom Kelley and David Kelley
"The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses" by Eric Ries

Managing Paradox

Role model behaviour

Navigates contradictions with ease, balancing flexibility and decisiveness in tough situations. Seamlessly integrates opposing qualities—compassion with toughness, confidence with humility, and structure with adaptability. Adjusts approach to fit the context while maintaining consistency. Handles conflicting demands with poise, earning trust as a fair, balanced, and adaptable leader.

Tools for practicing

Paradox Theory
Appreciative Inquiry
Dialectical Inquiry

Suggested books

"The Opposable Mind: How Successful Leaders Win Through Integrative Thinking" by Roger L. Martin
"The Power of Paradox: Harness the Energy of Competing Ideas to Uncover Radically Innovative Solutions" by Deborah Schroeder-Saulnier
"Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box" by The Arbinger Institute

Problem-Solving

Role model behaviour

Applies structured logic and critical thinking to solve complex problems effectively. Digs deep to uncover root causes, explores multiple solutions, and identifies hidden challenges. Conducts honest, thorough analysis and avoids superficial conclusions, ensuring well-reasoned, impactful decisions.

Tools for practicing

Root cause analysis
5 whys
IDEAL

Suggested books

"Problem Solving 101: A Simple Book for Smart People" by Ken Watanabe
"Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman
"The McKinsey Problem Solving Test: Top 10 Tips for Problem Solving in Consulting" by David H. Bangs

Agile Learner

Role model behaviour

Quickly absorbs new challenges, adapting with curiosity and resilience. Analyzes successes and failures for insights, continuously refining approaches. Embraces change, experiments fearlessly, and pursues innovative solutions. Thrives on complexity, rapidly understanding core principles and hidden structures. A relentless learner who turns uncertainty into opportunity.

Tools for practicing

Inquiry-based learning
70-20-10 model
Kolb’s experiential learning cycle

Suggested books

"Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol S. Dweck
"Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning" by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel
"Learning Agility: The Key to Leader Potential" by David Hoff and Michael Burchell

Conflict Management

Role model behaviour

Handles conflicts constructively, viewing them as opportunities for growth. Quickly assesses situations, listens actively, and navigates tough discussions with fairness. Skilled at resolving disputes, fostering collaboration, and securing agreements with minimal friction, ensuring positive outcomes for all parties involved.

Tools for practicing

Thomas-Kilmann
The drama triangle
Dual concern model

Suggested books

"Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In" by Roger Fisher, William Ury, and Bruce Patton
"Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High" by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler
"The Conflict Resolution Toolbox: Models and Maps for Analyzing, Diagnosing, and Resolving Conflict" by Gary T. Furlong

Creativity

Role model behaviour

Consistently generates a wealth of innovative and unique ideas, making unexpected connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. Brings fresh, value-added insights to brainstorming sessions, inspiring others with original thinking. Recognized for creativity, adaptability, and the ability to turn imaginative ideas into practical solutions that drive progress.

Tools for practicing

Morphological matrix
Reverse thinking
SCAMPER Technique

Suggested books

"Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All" by Tom Kelley and David Kelley
"Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative" by Austin Kleon
"Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World" by Adam Grant

Action Orientation

Role model behaviour

Thrives in a fast-paced environment, tackling challenges with enthusiasm and relentless energy. Takes initiative, acting decisively even with minimal planning. Boldly seizes opportunities, often spotting and pursuing them ahead of others. Demonstrates a strong work ethic and a passion for turning ideas into impactful results.

Tools for practicing

Kanban
RACI Matrix
5S Framework

Suggested books

"Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" by Daniel H. Pink
"Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" by Angela Duckworth
"Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World" by Admiral William H. McRaven

Timely Decision-Making

Role model behaviour

Makes sound decisions swiftly, even under pressure or with incomplete information. Remains confident and composed in high-stakes situations, assessing risks effectively. Balances speed with judgment, ensuring decisions are well-reasoned and impactful. Thrives in fast-paced environments, demonstrating agility and clarity in critical moments.

Tools for practicing

Delphi method
Premortem technique
Pareto Analysis

Suggested books

"Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking" by Malcolm Gladwell
"Decisive: How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
"Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman

Organizational Agility

Role model behaviour

Deeply understands organizational dynamics, navigating both formal structures and informal networks to get things done. Grasps the rationale behind key policies, practices, and procedures. Reads organizational culture effectively, adapting to its nuances while leveraging relationships and processes to drive results efficiently.

Tools for practicing

Lean manufacturing
Kotter's 8 Steps change model
Organizational Agility Maturity Model

Suggested books

"The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of The Learning Organization" by Peter M. Senge
"The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses" by Eric Ries
"Sense and Respond: How Successful Organizations Listen to Customers and Create New Products Continuously" by Jeff Gothelf and Josh Seiden

Process Management

Role model behaviour

Excels at designing and optimizing processes to achieve results efficiently. Organizes people and activities effectively, breaking down tasks into a seamless workflow. Identifies key metrics for success and leverages data-driven insights. Recognizes opportunities for synergy and streamlines complexity, maximizing impact while utilizing minimal resources.

Tools for practicing

Six sigma
TQM
Value stream mapping

Suggested books

"The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement" by Eliyahu M. Goldratt and Jeff Cox
"Lean Thinking: Banish Waste and Create Wealth in Your Corporation" by James P. Womack and Daniel T. Jones
"Business Process Management: Concepts, Languages, Architectures" by Mathias Weske

Result Orientation

Role model behaviour

Consistently exceeds performance goals and delivers outstanding results. Recognized as a top performer with a strong focus on outcomes and impact. Maintains a relentless drive for achievement, pushing self and others with determination, discipline, and urgency. Demonstrates unwavering commitment to high standards and measurable success.

Tools for practicing

OKR
Management by objectives
Theory of constraints

Suggested books

"High Output Management" by Andrew S. Grove
"The 4 Disciplines of Execution: Achieving Your Wildly Important Goals" by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim Huling
"Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things Done" by Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan

Dealing with Ambiguity

Role model behaviour

Adapts quickly to change and navigates ambiguity with ease; makes sound decisions even with incomplete information; remains composed when situations are unsettled or evolving; embraces uncertainty as part of progress and moves forward without needing full closure; handles risk with confidence and flexibility.

Tools for practicing

VUCA
Cynefin framework
Kotter’s 8-step change model

Suggested books

"Managing Ambiguity and Change" by Harold S. Resnick
"The Art of Thinking Clearly" by Rolf Dobelli
"A Sense of Urgency" by John P. Kotter

Big Picture Thinking

Role model behaviour

Thinks beyond the immediate to consider wide-ranging implications and long-term impact; draws from diverse interests and experiences to offer fresh perspectives; envisions future scenarios with ease; considers global and cross-functional dimensions; anticipates trends and connects seemingly unrelated elements to inform forward-thinking decisions.

Tools for practicing

Porter's Five Forces
PESTLE Analysis
Stakeholder Analysis

Suggested books

"The Second Machine Age: Work, Progress, and Prosperity in a Time of Brilliant Technologies" by Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee
"Superforecasting: The Art and Science of Prediction" by Philip E. Tetlock and Dan Gardner
"The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of The Learning Organization" by Peter M. Senge

Listening (Active Listening)

Role model behaviour

Demonstrates attentive and empathetic listening; gives others space to express themselves fully before responding. Listens without interrupting, even in disagreement. Accurately reflects others' perspectives to show understanding and build trust. Creates an environment where people feel genuinely heard and valued.

Tools for practicing

Socratic questioning
HURIER Model
Active Listening Model

Suggested books

"The Lost Art of Listening: How Learning to Listen Can Improve Relationships" by Michael P. Nichols
"You're Not Listening: What You're Missing and Why It Matters" by Kate Murphy
"Just Listen: Discover the Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone" by Mark Goulston

Functional & Technical Skills (Subject Matter Expertise)

Role model behaviour

Demonstrates deep functional expertise and applies it consistently to achieve high-quality outcomes. Stays current with relevant knowledge and skills, solves complex job-related challenges with confidence, and performs at a consistently high standard. Is recognized by peers and leaders as a go-to expert in the function.

Tools for practicing

Dreyfus model
CMM’s competency model

Suggested books

"The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles from the World's Greatest Manufacturer" by Jeffrey K. Liker
"Manufacturing Processes for Design Professionals" by Rob Thompson
"Introduction to Manufacturing Processes" by Mikell P. Groover

Personal Learning (Continuous Learning)

Role model behaviour

Quickly recognizes the need to adapt personal, interpersonal, and managerial behaviors. Observes others’ responses to influence and performance efforts, actively seeks feedback, and adjusts accordingly. Demonstrates sensitivity to evolving demands and requirements, ensuring continuous alignment and effectiveness in dynamic situations.

Tools for practicing

GROW
70-20-10 model
Kolb's experiential learning cycle

Suggested books

Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
"The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter" by Michael D. Watkins
"Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath

Interpersonal Savvy (Relational Intelligence)

Role model behaviour

Builds strong, positive relationships across all levels and functions, both inside and outside the organization. Establishes appropriate rapport using diplomacy and tact. Skilled at managing and defusing high-tension situations with ease, fostering trust and collaboration in diverse and challenging environments.

Tools for practicing

Johari Window
EI model
Transactional Analysis

Suggested books

"Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It" by Chris Voss
"The Like Switch: An Ex-FBI Agent's Guide to Influencing, Attracting, and Winning People Over" by Jack Schafer and Marvin Karlins
"Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High" by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler

Self-Knowledge

Role model behaviour

Demonstrates strong self-awareness by recognizing strengths, weaknesses, and growth opportunities. Actively seeks feedback, learns from mistakes, and embraces constructive criticism without defensiveness. Welcomes open discussions about development areas and values balanced performance reviews to guide career growth and continuous improvement.

Tools for practicing

StrengthsFinder
Ikigai
Enneagram

Suggested books

"Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol S. Dweck
"Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well" by Douglas Stone and Sheila Heen
"Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity" by Kim Scott

[1] You can easily create your own workshop using the information in this document. Call me at +91 9945694937, if you are stuck. All the best.

Life skills

TenMG

Friday, 25 July 2025

Cerebral brawn - Practicing management tools

The Why

Practice sheets

PMI of Cerebral Brawn

Plus

Minus

Interesting

The background

What is competency?

What are competency levels

The thirty leadership competencies

Business Acumen

Strategic Agility

Priority Setting

Customer Focus

Managing Vision and Purpose

Decision Quality

Motivating Others

Hiring and Staffing

People Acumen

Transparent Communication

Team Catalyst

Integrity in Action

Innovation Management

Managing Paradox

Problem-Solving

Agile Learner

Conflict Management

Creativity

Action Orientation

Timely Decision-Making

Organizational Agility

Process Management

Result Orientation

Dealing with Ambiguity

Big Picture Thinking

Listening (Active Listening)

Functional & Technical Skills (Subject Matter Expertise)

Personal Learning (Continuous Learning)

Interpersonal Savvy (Relational Intelligence)

Self-Knowledge

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