Feature: The changing world around us

By Timothy A. Edward

Our world is undergoing significant transformations, impacting every aspect of our lives. These changes stem primarily from the rapid expansion of knowledge, made accessible to everyone thanks to remarkable advancements in science, medicine, engineering, IT, and technology. As a result, we must confront an evolving reality where the ways we conduct business, govern countries, run economies, engage in agriculture and aquaculture, and negotiate diplomacy are changing at an unprecedented pace. Truly, it is no longer business as usual.

Adapting laws and constitutions

In this context, the laws, legislatures, and constitutions that govern us must also adapt to these changes. While the core principles that define our culture, faith, and constitutions should remain unaltered, archaic laws must be revised to protect individuals and communities from the subtle yet adverse effects that advancements in technology, science, and IT may bring. Modernisation is essential to embrace progress without compromising foundational values.

Role of training and development

To navigate this transformative era, training programmes should empower staff and organisations to embrace change. The rapid expansion of knowledge often creates skill gaps that training sessions aim to bridge by equipping individuals, companies, and organisations with the necessary upskilling tools.

Development, on the other hand, is a lifelong process. Within organisations, young graduates join fresh out of college or university and, over the years, evolve into highly effective managers and leaders. This growth is facilitated by human resources, talent acquisition, and capacity-building units within organisations.

Discovering strengths and weaknesses

Training and development initiatives play a vital role in helping employees recognise their strengths and weaknesses. None of us is perfect, and no one knows everything. However, each individual is uniquely gifted with special talents. As Osho eloquently put it: “Nobody is superior, nobody is inferior. But nobody is equal either. People are simply unique and incomparable.”

Training and development efforts should aim to bring out this uniqueness in all of us. By leveraging our individual talents, we not only contribute to organisational success but also create a winning, cutting-edge culture that distinguishes our companies from competitors.

Motivation and Mentorship: Keys to growth

Personal, professional, physical, and spiritual growth requires discipline and consistent effort. We pursue development goals to achieve success, support our families, contribute to society, and perhaps even inspire global change.

To succeed, we must identify our strengths, understand our ideal fields of work, and engage with organisations and mentors who affirm our potential. Professional bodies and associations play a crucial role in this journey, providing access to mentors - experienced individuals who guide, coach, and pour their wisdom into our lives.

I recently spoke with a successful entrepreneur in Sri Lanka whose company, an award-winning exporter, reaches nearly 50 countries. He attributed his success to a mentor who generously shared industry secrets and shaped his career. This story underscores the transformative power of mentorship.

The secret of joy

True joy and happiness in life come from accepting who we are, understanding our strengths and weaknesses, and continuously growing, relationally and professionally. By setting meaningful goals, joining professional bodies, attending training and enrolling in development programmes, and seeking mentors, we can thrive and glow in our life's calling, vision and mission.

Adopting this attitude brings true happiness, contentment, and fulfillment and as we progress in this life journey, we will one day hear the rewarding words: “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into your rest!”