Innovation State - April 2011

Sorry has taken me so long to get back to blogging. I am excited to share the work I have been immersed in of late - enabling leaders to get off the super high way and switch on the turbo cruise control. Sound confusing?

Most of the time we operate in Beta energy state, we are busy, totally engaged and immersed in the doing. Like having foot all way down on the gas. This is the fastest brain wave and offers lowest amplitude. Prolonged time spent in this state without rest can cause stress, anxiety and eventually even a melt down.

Alpha state is when you take a break, rest or go for a walk. This slower state has a higher amplitude than Beta and creates the space to explore what's going on and gain perspective.

Theta state is experienced when waking up, day dreaming, running, taking a bath, meditating, painting, playing music etc. It is a positive mind state and may be experienced as being in "flow". Theta is the  ideal state for enabling innovation to emerge.

Why? Research shows creative ideas emerge mostly when taking a shower/bath, day dreaming, driving in lovely landscapes, not in the office or boardroom. If we are operating constantly in a Beta state, we may get bogged down in the detail and loose sight of the big picture, alternate opportunities, solutions and deeper awareness this state offers.

The best way to find this out is try it for yourself. Every one of us has our own unique way and preference to access this state.

Please share your comments on twitter: @3rdiLeaders

Peace of Mind - India Oct 2009

I recently travelled to Mt Abu in Rajasthan to participate in the annual Peace of Mind Retreat put on by the Brahma Kumari World Spiritual University. There was over 250 people from 60 countries with one goal in common, seeking peace in a world that never sleeps.

Taking time out of my busy schedule like most is never an easy task. I realised, if I don't take time out, it will never happen. By "it" I mean slowing down enough to deepen my meditation and reflective practice.

I was deeply rewarded and enriched by my experience. We began our day with meditation, followed by a guided flute player walking us deep in to the nearby mountains. The silence was audible, nature spoke to us as we passed her, the morning dew glistened and the cows mood us by.

No TV, PC (by choice), work or worry. I was in heaven, all I had to do each day was attend various study and dialogue groups and choose which sightseeing excursion to go on.

Going back to basics was such an obvious aha moment. How readily we handover our inner peace to daily pressures, work, societal issues...

What I have taken home with me is a renewed daily practice that keeps me focused and centred on what "really" matters to me and what I want to give energy to in my life. I am grateful that there are places in the world like Mt Abu, open to all that seek greater meaning and peace in the world.

It all starts with us, Om Shanti, (a mantra which means I am Peace)

Magic In-side - 22 Sept 2009

Hey you, yes you, you with the gorgeous eyes and smile that makes my heart melt. I have been wanting to share something with you. Since you were a small child I have seen you grow, play, fall, cry, laugh and everything in between. I have seen you reach for the stars and dream. Been so in love you thought your heart would burst.

You never settled for second best nor let others disway you when you set your sights on something big. You were always the one setting the world on fire. Never missed out on a dare or passed an opportunity to show someone you care.

How do I know all this? I am you, I am the sparkle in your eyes, the voice inside. I am always looking out for you, waiting to be asked how I can help.

Take a minute each day to come inside and explore the magical world within.