As we step into a new year, I bet many of you have set goals to acquire new knowledge and skills for your success and growth. Now, there are the usual suspects for learning – formal courses, blogs, books, mentors, and podcasts. But, let me tell you about a not-so-obvious source of wisdom that I stumbled upon during my time as a CEO – the incredible lessons I learned from my housekeeping staff.
We often overlook the treasure trove of knowledge that surrounds us every day – our colleagues. In my case, it was the amazing women in our contractual housekeeping team. These were not merely individuals; they formed the backbone of Safe Hands, a company founded by the visionary Shravani Pawar. Safe Hands was not just a business; it was a venture committed to empowering women, offering them livelihoods, and, above all, restoring dignity to each individual. These women, mostly from challenging backgrounds, faced life’s harshest trials with unimaginable courage, all while maintaining a peaceful, happy, and grateful grace. Their life stories are nothing short of awe-inspiring. Shravani’s venture, dedicated to providing employment opportunities for under/uneducated women in security and housekeeping services is an inspiring story that caught the attention nationwide.
Now, let me take you back to my CEO days. The job was not easy; it demanded constant adaptation to ever-changing dynamics within the organisation, coupled with the intricate balancing act of multifaceted responsibilities. There were moments when everything seemed to diverge, making you feel deeply challenged and vulnerable. It was a somewhat solitary journey, and mastering the art of navigating through those tough times without inflicting negative repercussions on oneself or the organization became a skill in its own right.
CEOs frequently seek guidance from books and seasoned professionals, yet there exists an often-overlooked wellspring of inspiration right within our midst – in my case, my housekeeping staff. Amid the chaos of everyday work, observing and learning from these unsung heroes can provide insights and lessons that go beyond the usual realms of leadership. So, let me share some of these profound lessons that I gathered during my stint as a CEO from my extraordinary “Akkas“. The term ‘Akka‘ holds special significance for us, as it means sister, a warm and affectionate expression we fondly use for our dedicated housekeeping staff.
Allow me to now share the transformative lessons I learned as a CEO from observing the everyday lives and work ethics of our housekeeping staff.
Lesson 1: Accepting Challenges with Grace
The first and perhaps the most crucial lesson is the art of accepting challenges as an integral part of life.
Our incredible Akkas possessed a unique superpower: they remained calm, composed, and downright joyful, no matter the challenges life threw at them. I have never witnessed them ruffled, stressed, or scratching their heads in confusion during work. Consider this: their lives before joining us were marked by struggles. However, what stood out was their ability not just to face challenges but to embrace them with a resilience that was nothing short of inspiring. As a CEO, it struck me: the significance of approaching problems with a positive mindset, adapting like a chameleon, and maintaining composure when faced with intensity.
Accepting organizational challenges with grace involves maintaining composure, nurturing a positive mindset, and adopting a proactive approach. Remember, the ability to face organizational challenges with grace is a skill honed over time. By cultivating a positive mindset, seeking support, and remaining solution-focused, one can navigate challenges with resilience and poise.
Lesson 2: Turning Work into a Sacred Ritual
The ethos of considering work as a form of worship was deeply ingrained in the housekeeping staff.
Now, let us talk about the sacred art of viewing work as a form of worship. Our Akkas had this philosophy etched into their very beings. Come rain or shine, they treated their commitments as sacred vows. These were the individuals who consistently went the extra mile, whether it meant staying late due to unexpected VIPs, sacrificing lunch breaks, or taking on additional tasks during events and meetings. Their unwavering dedication underscored the notion that genuine commitment to responsibility is the secret sauce for success.
Turning work into a sacred ritual involves infusing intention, mindfulness, and a profound sense of purpose into your daily tasks. By approaching work with a sense of devotion, you not only elevate the quality of your contributions but also cultivate a deeper sense of fulfilment and purpose in your professional life.
Lesson 3: Gratitude and Pride
Our Akkas revealed a profound sense of gratitude towards the organization.
Our Akkas were not just cleaners; they were virtuosos of gratitude. Within our organization, they felt a profound sense of respect and honour, as if they were an integral part of a grand community. This realization was not merely a job perk; it cultivated an authentic sense of pride in their work. Taking the lead in organizing festivals, sports, and family events, they showcased not just dedication but a deep connection to their roles.
For me, as the CEO, this went beyond mere acknowledgement; it was an epiphany about the paramount importance of creating a workplace where everyone, from the top brass to the unsung heroes, feels not just seen but valued, acknowledged, and intricately woven into the very fabric of the organization.
Practising gratitude towards the organization is a powerful means to foster a positive workplace culture and enhance overall job satisfaction. Remember, gratitude towards the organization is a reciprocal relationship. By actively engaging, supporting, and appreciating the organization, you contribute to a positive and thriving workplace culture.
In Conclusion:
In the dynamic realm of corporate leadership, CEOs often find themselves immersed in the relentless demands of their roles. Yet, amidst the chaos, there lies an invaluable source of wisdom – the everyday heroes within the organization. Our housekeeping staff, fondly referred to as our Akkas, emerged as a source of inspiration for me, their resilience, unwavering dedication, and profound gratitude illuminating my path through the intricacies of leadership.
Stepping back to observe and learn from these unsung heroes has been a transformative journey. The lessons acquired extend far beyond the confines of the boardroom, providing a panoramic view of leadership. It is a perspective that emphasizes not only strategic acumen but also the fundamental values of humanity, humility, and a genuine commitment to the holistic well-being of every team member. The housekeeping staff, in their simplicity, have imparted a profound truth – that true leadership is a confluence of compassion, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the individuals who collectively shape the organizational journey.
