My thoughts festered on a deeper level, concocting stories of becoming trapped, disconnecting from the essence of my birthplace and losing my freedom forever more!
3. Exploration
Perhaps it was my face – one will never know, yet suddenly other expats were openly sharing their experiences, the quirks and laughs of unique-ness. I started to learn more about cultural behaviours and to explore the positives in them. I witnessed the impossible becoming possible, rules being bent beyond belief whilst achievement was being inextricably linked to challenge and excitement.
The team explored possibility together, recognizing innovation was an option open to us; we interpreted gaps in systems as freedom within which to create; we took black and whites and turned them into a home-grown shade of grey; we lived on the edge with countless hours of toil often thrown out the window for the sake of one opinion. We had it all and saw it all! Life was no longer about survival but more about how to survive andthrive on the edge, not forgetting to enjoy the view while out there!
Nothing was out of our reach – all we had to do was find ways to extend the edge we were teetering on!
4. Acceptance
Chuckling to myself when observing ‘newbies’ indignantly exclaiming ‘you cant do that’ made me realize I had become what I was surrounded with, accepting it was the way, and that the game was more enjoyable doing so!
When linking up with those from days gone by, it never ceases to amaze how those negatives are the very essence that connects us in laughter today. We were all in survival mode, yet unknowingly growing exponentially throughout.
Life in this multi-cultural country has me now accustomed to expressions of ‘long time’, ‘ma’am’ and ‘had your lunch’? I am no longer astounded when people display utter shock and despair at hearing I don’t have children, offering heartfelt condolences. I also seek the soothing caress of the mosque’s call to prayer from far and wide.
So too, business has handed me such profound lessons:
·Difference is not a subset of right or wrong; seek uniqueness in all areas of diversity to identify both opportunity and potential
· Creativity has no bounds; passion and flexibility trump systems, hands-down
· Business is based on strong and enduring relationships; build, nurture, show respect for and connect with them; after all without them, business ceases to exist.
At what stage during the change cycle does the caterpillar know it is morphing into a butterfly? Perhaps it never really does, yet what I know is that my wings are open and in full flight! Knowingly accept diversity, seek lessons it can provide and hold on for the wild ride!
Debbie Nicol, managing director of ‘business en motion’, a Dubai-based business consultancy and learning organization, leads initiatives in the arenas of strategic change, leadership and organizational development, assisting businesses and leaders to move ahead through change.
http://www.businessenmotion.com
COLUMN - Spotlight On Change