To Quit or Not to Quit, that is the Question?

To Quick or Not to Quit, that is the Question?

Is it time to leave your job? Ask yourself these questions — and answer them honestly — to determine whether it's time to make your next career move.

• Is there still room to grow? Life is all about possibility. Have you considered reinventing your role to create new opportunities to learn? Try engaging and working with your manager to take on new projects and responsibilities that can reinvigorate your work life.

• Have I achieved what I set out to achieve? What is your future vision? Reflect on your goals from when you started the job to see whether you still have something to aspire to there. Ultimately, what is your ultimate intention and vision for yourself.

• Am I looking for ways to avoid doing my job? Many of us have an ability to remain focused and just need to power through distractions to get work done. But sometimes, it’s necessary to take a short break to reenergize — Other times, it is necessary to take a permanent break to seek new employment that ignites excitement and empowerment again rather than avoidance and suffering in silence.

• Does my role no longer align with my values? If you find yourself doing and saying things in your professional life that you wouldn’t do or say in your personal life, you may be compromising your values. This is a clear sign that it’s time to go.

• Has my workplace become toxic? There are so many warning signs that our workplace is, or has become toxic but we sometimes choose to ignore them or simply become so conditions or desensitized, we do not always see what is directly in front of us. Some indications can include an absence of work-life balance, the promotion of unhealthy or toxic competition, and managers or other leaders who don’t value you as a full person. These types of conditions can become harmful to your mental and ultimately physical health.

What to do if you hear or become aware of a microaggression

All leaders, whether holding the title of manager, director, supervisor, department head, partner or more importantly, an individual in the workplace, have a unique opportunity, as well as a responsibility to be a role model in creating an inclusive workplace. 

What this means in real terms is recognizing and mitigating potential harmful behaviors in yourself, and in your team members. Easily one of the main examples of this is speaking up if you hear or see something inappropriate, especially any act which could be considered a microaggression, such as interrupting, taking up airtime, dismissing or taking credit for someone else’s ideas, diminishing someone’s experience, stereotyping, or using problematic language. These behaviors are often unintentional, which makes it all the more important to call them out. If a situation like this comes up, be sure to pause and name what’s just happened. For example, if someone uses an outdated or problematic word to describe a group of people, you might say: “Hey, Just so we are all aware, I just want to take a moment here. It’s really important to focus on the language we use to describe people, and XYZ is a not considered an acceptable term.” The object of the exercise is to educate others rather than shame them (which is more likely to alienate and less likely to result in change). 

It is always good practice to follow up with the individual after the incident to discuss in private and provide them with helpful learning resources, offering to continue the conversation if they’d find it helpful. The world can be a complicated ever-changing place where people might not fully understand their conduct. It isn’t wrong to take a moment to hold someone to account or support them with knowledge. 

This article is not intended to address the specific definitions of microaggressions themselves but this helpful video from Quart while not comprehensive is a helpful guide.

Why do people use me as a business mentor or coach?

Peter Gourri at the Indian Consulate in New York City on January 19, 2021

Why do people use me as a coach, especially my corporate as well as other business clients? Well it isn’t just because I am a trained ICF coach, who also has extensive experience in business mentoring and coaching, leadership training and personal development. It is also because I make it my business to ensure that I have the up to date knowledge of business practices to ensure I have the abilities to make my clients more successful. 

I was delighted to have been invited by Consul General of India in New York City, Mr Randhir Jaiswal, in partnership with MPEDA and USISPF to an event celebrating Indian Seafood and its impact in the United States of America. It’s a lesser known fact that India exports thousands of tons of seafood, especially shrimp to the USA every year. After an excellent presentation, during which I had an opportunity to ask questions from subject matter experts in India and New York, there were samples of food to taste and enjoy. The food as you would expect was absolutely delicious. It was presented by the famous Michelin Star Chef Hemant Mathur of Saar

For me, being invited to the consulate wasn’t just having some fun engaging with others and tasting delicious food, although it was definitely enjoyable. It was primarily an opportunity to obtain knowledge about different aspects of international business. My background in business goes back to 1987 when I started off as a 17 year old outdoor clerk with a firm of Solicitors (Attorneys) in the Inner Temple area of the City of London. After hard work and a legal education, I rose to become a senior litigation and business lawyer representing small, medium and large businesses as well as individuals. 

My practice included providing business and legal advice and suing or defending against governments, institutions with diplomatic immunity to multinational conglomerates and all types of business. I also enjoyed representing nonprofit organizations and startups, providing them with practical advice on best practice and success. 

Because of my extensive background in business it means that I have very extensive set of skills not just as an ICF coach but also as somebody who has been there, done it and helped numerous individuals and businesses to transform themselves into greater success and contentment.  I’m able to give my clients practical knowledge based on that extensive expertise in business and individual success.

If you want to make your business more successful, or perhaps you want to have a startup or resolve issues which you can’t quite put your finger on as to why it is still around, drop me a line by clicking here. I have no doubt I will be able to help you.

Take a hike - For clarity and wellbeing!

As a business mentor and life coach, I encourage my clients to give themselves space and time in order to breathe and have the opportunity to take a step back and gain clarity. Sometimes we need to be completely separated from our business world and the stresses that around us to remind ourselves what’s actually important and the results we are seeking to achieve.

This week, try to give yourself some space think about what you want for your future plans whether that relates to your business or personal life. I find it helpful to start at the end, thinking where I want to be in 20, 10 or 5 years time and work backwards from there.

Hiking on the Rattlesnake trail

at the Delaware Water Gap

On Sunday I went on a hike to the Delaware Water Gap which is on the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. It was my first hike of 2021 and despite the fact that my Covid lungs were reminding me that it will take a little time to fully recover despite the fact that it’s already been nine months, I felt empowered, energized and overjoyed at being out in the wilderness.  Having the opportunity to push myself and to enjoy the outdoors which is where I’m usually happiest can help to give me clarity, empowerment and strength. Wellness is always key to a good life.

The temperature was -2 C and there was a fair bit of ice and mud around but nothing to be worried about, and absolutely worth it for the views and the fresh air. Being in the outdoors has been my go-to for joy and clarity my entire life. As a child and during my time in the RAFVR(T), I used to love having the opportunity to be out enjoying the outdoors for all that it gives us.

I continue enjoying my time outside and love being a volunteer with the New York/New Jersey Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club. They do such valuable work to promote the outdoors. I still have my various outdoor qualifications as well as extensive experience which I was lucky enough to have obtained in the United Kingdom. It is my intention to get out as often as I can to help me think and gain clarity for my best possible future life, which also involves a successful business.

So in conclusion of my post, I invite you to click on the link to my contact page so you or your friends, family or business associates can book a complimentary session with me. Many people find just one session with me gives them the opportunity to gain clarity which they’ve been seeking. There’s no commitment. It’s all about you and the power in your life, making either your business or your life successful. In the case of my clients it’s usually both. I’m looking forward to sharing this journey with you. 

Views from the Ridgeline on the Rattle Snake trail at the Mohican Center at the Delaware Water Gap in New Jersey

Paying It Forward in 2021

New Years Eve 2020 - Colgate Clock - Jersey City

The numerous universal examples of "Service Above Self" that I have seen throughout my life and especially in the last year have inspired me to continue to give back to others and pay it forward even more in 2021.

I have decided that one of my personal goals for 2021 is to make available free of charge, three 45-minute business mentoring/coaching sessions per week to individuals or businesses. I am happy to discuss whether this is on an individual, team or organizational level. So if you, or anyone you may know could benefit from 45 minutes of professional qualified mentoring/coaching, please share this email, book a 45 minute session via this link 

Why am I doing this? Well, just before midnight on the 31st December 2020 I went for a walk beside the Hudson River where I live, and I took this photograph of the World Trade Centre and Manhattan. I reflected on the beginning of 2020 when I sent an e-shot in which I mentioned how we were now living in a new decade which was being referred to as “The Roaring Twenties” all of which was terribly exciting, and after a challenging past decade for many of us, it was now our time to seize the day and plan carefully for the future, both in our business and personal lives.

I don’t need to tell you that 2020 hasn’t been easy for many of us but if there was one positive aspect of the world we have all seen over the last year it is that we have all in our own ways tried to help each other.  And I’ve learned over the years that when situations might appear at their worst, it will almost always bring out the best in people.  

In the last year, I provided pro-bono coaching sessions to the many individuals who needed help. Many persons found their businesses and personal lives in severe difficulties. Working with me has given people the opportunity to gain clarity both in the here and now as well as the future.    

Think about what you want to create not just in 2021 but beyond that in 2025, 2030 and beyond, not just for your professional and business world but your personal life. This is my work and my passion. Helping those to have a successful future. 

I wish you all the very best in 2021.

Peter Gourri

Cyber Monday - Support small businesses too!

The Monday after Thanksgiving is traditionally "Cyber Monday". It is a day which is now considered the busiest shopping day in the U.S. and U.K. Sales will peak at 11:25 am on Cyber Monday.

During Cyber Monday's peak time Amazon will have sold an estimated 320 products per second. The most retail traffic will have come from people while they are at work.

According to International  Business Times, the IBM supercomputer Watson predicts a rise of 18% to 20% in Cyber Monday spending this year, to $2.4 billion from $2.0 billion last year.

2020 has been an extremely difficult for so many people and I am not suggesting we ignore big business or boycott corporations. On the contrary, they, along with small and medium businesses support the world wide economy but this Cyber Monday and in the following weeks afterwards, I am asking you do your best to support smaller businesses, many of which have adapted to operating remotely.  

Let's help each other out. The holidays are upon us and wouldn’t it be nice to get a special gift for someone from a locally owned small business?

Your support of small businesses is very much needed and more importantly very much appreciated!

Taking Care of Yourself and Others

When we entered this pandemic I made a promise to myself that I would not write any articles or emails about Covid-19. We are 6 months into this very strange and stressful period in history and so I decided to review my position as any leader should, and break my promise. I was delighted to be a guest on the "The Modern Manager" Podcast with Mamie Kanfer Stewart where I talked to her about business leaders taking care of themselves and others in the Covid-19 era.  

You can listen to the Podcast by clicking on this link which will take you to Mamie's podcast page.

I can’t guarantee there won’t be challenges in the future but I can promise you will find listening helpful. Remote working, limited public life and human interaction, rising tensions, and mounting uncertainty, has taken its toll upon many worldwide. Only today I was reading just how badly people have been affected and let's be honest, there are few who have not been affected, either directly or indirectly, by the Pandemic. Many managers, business leaders, and their team members are experiencing non-stop excess stress, overwhelm, and are nearing burnout. This isn’t healthy or sustainable. 

Mamie and I talk about how to take care of yourself and your team members during this time of immense stress and uncertainty. We get into some healthy self-care practices that are good even when there isn’t a pandemic, how to take advantage of this strange time, and more beyond. You can also Subscribe to the newsletter for "The Modern Manager" to further get further episodes, articles, and free mini-guides delivered to your inbox. You can also read the related blog article Self Care Tips For Managers And Teams During COVID-19

The Key Takeaways from our discussion are:

Because our mood heavily impacts how we see the world when under excess stress, it's easy to misinterpret actions or written communications (e.g. email or chat). Before assuming the worst, consider the facts vs your interpretation of them. Pause before responding when you feel emotionally triggered. Take a break and return to the situation with fresh eyes and a calm mind.

Give yourself and others a break. We’re all navigating the same complex, confusing and stressful situation. Beating yourself up helps no one, especially your team.

Make time in your calendar for self-care, including the time to do simple things like to prepare and eat meals, go for walks or exercise, etc. Offer to switch a video meeting to audio-only or a phone call to have a bit of a break for everyone. Maybe try a socially distanced walk to have an in-person meeting but only if it is safe to do so and proper precautions are taken in accordance with the relevant advice from the authorities. 

Take vacation time even if there is nowhere to go. There are plenty of things you can do if you put your mind to it. Discover a new park within driving distance or simply take a personal day at home to relax. Encourage your team members to take breaks and time off. You can be a role model this healthy behavior for them by leading by example.

Take up a new hobby or find an activity that energizes you. Or design a project for yourself and work toward it. Create a future vision for yourself by writing a letter to yourself as if you’ve achieved that future state. It will give you something to aim towards and remain focused. Spend time investing in the skills that will help you advance your career or business. Take an online course, etc. Know that you will get through this and be stronger because of this experience, no matter how challenging it is.  

 If you would like to explore any aspect of your business or career, please do not hesitate to book a session with me using the link here. You never know, it might just make an enormous difference and it what I do! I already make a difference to individuals and businesses. I can help you and your business too.

How a life coach can literally change your life for the better

Over ten years ago I was a successful but stressed out lawyer with no life or even less joy in my life. This was not caused by the loved ones and friends around me but by me, and me alone.

I was offered coaching by a good friend who had been a successful management consultant with Accenture and other leading companies. This was not the only time this happened. At various networking events I had met life coaches of different backgrounds and quality.

I always said no. Not because I questioned the very fine qualities of my friend or the other coaches but because I didn’t believe in life coaching. I could not see how it could possibly benefit me or my life. 

The thing is that coaching really works. Not only does it work but it is not about mistakes or exposing you. It is about your future as well as the here and now.

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Check out my corporate coaching program.

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How I work with clients

When I work with a client it is my client who sets the agenda, and comes up with the answers, albeit with a little steering and guidance from me using my ears, eyes, and mouth, asking the right questions. 

My clients already have the answers but they can be hidden deep or right in front of their faces! I help them to find them. As a coach, when I see the breakthroughs achieved by my clients as well as the fantastic results they achieve, this brings me genuine pleasure and joy to know that they are progressing to the next stage of their success or breakthrough in life.

I shouldn’t be surprised really, as soon as I started using a life coach the old concerns and negative thoughts were there and I was initially hesitant, resistant, and nervous. My skillful coach asked me the right questions and pretty much straight away I noticed my life changing through a number of breakthroughs.

I was realizing that events that had held me back were not the root of my problems, it was me, and only me! I learnt to become a happier, better and more successful person.

Why you need to think about contingency planning

When considering where things are at the moment, with all the stress of COVID-19, think about your contingency planning.

Why is it a good idea to have a contingency plan?

It is never too late to do so and whether you are a business or simply in your personal lives, these suggestions might help. I stress that this is not a comprehensive authoritative list. Just some thoughts that might help give you a head start with your own ideas and thoughts, starting with the How, Where, Who and What of contingency planning.

How will I be able to make it work

How will circumstances change the way you or your employees are able to undertake their work? Can you work at home? What do you do about the kids, internet bandwidth being under strain, the dogs barking curing conference calls or even elderly relatives popping in to see what you are up to! If you are living in limited space and your partner, roommate, family members or the like are also having to work from home, agree boundaries and rules. Make sure you have a healthy routine. Eat, sleep and eat as if you were in the office.

Where will I be spending most of my time

Will your business be able to operate. Can it work remotely without interruptions? Are the systems in place to enable this? We are so used to everything working when we expect it, we forget to test for redundancy in the event something goes wrong. Working from home has its own challenges in terms of productivity. Everyone can slip into bad habits both in terms of working too little or too much for that matter. Does everyone have sufficient and appropriate equipment to work at home. Is it actually there? What is required?

Who must be notified?

Our immediate thoughts might be employees or business partners/colleagues but what about clients. Reassure them you are fully available, and you have plans in place for uninterrupted. Also consider connecting with landlords, bankers, accountants, lawyers and other professionals who might be able to help you. Just give them a heads up so they can support you when you need it. Also, other people in your field of business. It is always heartwarming how even competitors will come together to help each other in difficult times. Think about having in place an emergency chain of command if things go wrong. Perhaps have triangle communications system for staff members to update others even if you do have a system in place for group electronic updates via WhatsApp, text, email etc. People need human contact. And don’t forget to keep staff members updated and in contact with each other. Group video conference meetings are so easy to do these days and it helps those members of staff to feel the support of both team and business. 

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Check out my Individual Coaching program.

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What systems and processes will be affected?

What can only be undertaken in the business environment manually? Artists pictures can be online but what do you do if they are sold and your gallery is in lockdown. What about your notes from that meeting before the office was closed or the camera you took those photos on when you did a site inspection, that you left in a drawer in the office? You get the picture! In my world, I can survive with a smart phone which has internet service and my headphones but that is not the same for all businesses.

Lastly, remember to breathe

So many people are approaching me because they find themselves in overwhelm. The most important thing to remember is it’s fine. There’s a lot going on. My suggestion for you is to take a step back, get some elevation and gain clarity. Make a plan of what you need to do to achieve your success and then go with it. I stress, these are just some thoughts to help you get started. Plans like these can be several paragraphs or run into hundreds of pages depending on the organization or business.