When I tell people that Core Development is results- focused, they often remark, “ that ’s solution-focused, right? No.

Whilst solution- focused behaviour is driven by a problem,  or by the need to solve or eliminate a problem, results- focused actions are driven by the desire to create a certain result .

Solution- focused behaviour is problem solving. Results- focused is a creative act that does not require a problem to drive it.

The motivational dynamics are different , and one of the aims of Core Development is to enable people to make the transition from a problem-solving orientation, which is the prevalent attitude in our culture, to a creative, results- focused orientation.

In the latter, our major drivers are the results that we want to create, rather than the problems that we want to solve or eliminate. It involves a shift in our life orientation, in our way of perceiving.

I am indebted to my teacher Robert Fritz, author of ‘The Path of Least Resistance’, for helping me understand this distinction.

The Difference Between Knowing And Doing

The Managing Director of Human Synergistics, Shaun McCarthy, is quoted in the Sydney Morning Herald (7.12.02) as saying, “When you ask someone to tell you what good leadership is they can tell you that .

But there is a big difference between knowing it and doing it ?  Why? Because knowing is merely intellectual, and most of our education gives us information that we are unable to put into practice because we have not embodied it . It’s like learning to ride a bicycle by reading a book. Until we embody the principles of riding a bike, all the intellectual understanding does not help us.

The processes of Core Development are fundamentally different from intellectual learning processes. Core Development helps you embody what you learn, so that you can use that knowledge effectively in your life and work.

Psychological studies show that 60% to 90% of our learning takes place through body language and voice tone. How much attention is paid to this in our educational system – including professional and business studies?

No wonder the study conducted by Human Synergistics involving 35,000 managers in Australia and New Zealand found that “ the overwhelming style of management ident ified was avoidance, characterised by a fear of failure? and the least common style was “ the one credited with the best results, a constructive manner…?

Studies show that relationships affect performance, and that companies whose employees have high morale show TWICE THE RETURN ON CAPITAL than those whose employees dislike where they work. (Carole Kinsy Gorman – This isn’t the Company I joined – NY 1997).

Clearly, then, it is important to create a positive working environment not only because it’s worthwhile in itself, but also because it results in better all-round performance and improved profitability. So how can you do this?

1. Take time to formulate a clear and detailed vision for your company , and involve your staff in this process so that they take ownership of the vision – so it’s their vision as well as yours.
2. In order to do this effectively, it is also important for you to define your personal vision and to encourage your staff to do the same. You don’t necessarily have to make this public, but you do need to have a clarity in yourselves as to what your personal values and life goals are and how they relate to those of the company.
3. Learn and teach your staff how to communicate effectively. This includes ensuring that members understand each other clearly, know how to resolve conflicts and communicate in a way that motivates the listener to respond positively even to constructive criticism.
4. It also involves an awareness of the role of body language and voice tone. Psychological studies show that 60% to 90% of communication is through body language and tone of voice, yet how much do we learn about this in our educational system?
5. Acknowledge that seeking help when appropriate is a sign of strength not of weakness. Be willing to ask for help when you need it, and encourage your staff to do the same. We learn and teach by example so it is up to you as a leader to set an example to your staff.

If you want less stress and more energy, call 02 9413 9794 or 0412 178 234

Donald Marmara

MGBI(UK),MFPhys(UK), AARBPA, CMACA