Inside the Mind of a Champion

• I proactively acknowledged the delay and reassured the DE team that we would deliver high-quality work within the extended time frame. Although informing the client about the delay was awkward, I realized it was better to admit the truth. By doing this, we “Kept to our words and decisions.”
• Our team conducted a thorough audit to analyze the root cause of the delay. I could address the immediate issues by taking ownership and developing a strategy to prevent future delivery challenges. “Taking responsibility for our actions and outcomes.”
• Before the business users could raise concerns, we proactively discussed the situation with them. We presented alternative options to minimize the impact of the delay. “Adopting a proactive attitude to solve problems.”

VG: I have noticed that many people take ownership in their personal lives but not at work. What’s your view?

AA: This can be due to several factors. From my personal experience and understanding, I can say the hesitation to take ownership can be due to:

• No knowing/understanding how an employee’s contribution directly impacts the project, team, or organization’s outcome.
• Senior leaders of the team/project are not promoting a culture of ownership and accountability, making employees think that taking ownership of their work is not worth it.
• Fear of failure or making mistakes and its consequences like criticism, scolding, or even termination.

When employees feel that their Manager or senior colleagues don’t trust their decision-making ability, they withdraw from taking ownership. Likewise, micromanagement and not giving employees enough autonomy will result in them acting as executors of tasks rather than owners of their responsibilities.

VG: How has taking ownership at work helped you?

AA: It has empowered me to take control of my career, make meaningful contributions to GrayMatter, and achieve professional and personal success.

• Taking ownership of my tasks and projects has made me accountable for their outcomes, helping me develop a sense of responsibility and reliability in meeting deadlines and achieving goals.
• Taking ownership of a situation or challenge motivates me to find various solutions/options; this has sharpened my problem-solving skills, strengthened my determination, and enhanced my creativity.
• By owning my work, I am personally invested in its success. This sense of ownership boosts my motivation and commitment, resulting in higher productivity and greater job satisfaction.
• Individuals who take ownership are appreciated by their colleagues and supervisors.
• By consistently taking ownership of my responsibilities, I have earned the trust and respect of my peers and superiors, opening many opportunities for collaboration and advancement.
• By actively seeking out challenges and taking on additional responsibilities, I have quickly expanded my skills, knowledge, and experience, resulting in professional development.

VG: What suggestions would you give colleagues hesitating to take ownership?

AA: Assuming responsibility can be intimidating, so few want to stretch their neck. My suggestion is that their managers should encourage them to take ownership by highlighting the benefits individually and collectively, setting clear goals, and encouraging open communication. Employees should come forward to take the initiative, seek feedback for growth, not hesitate to speak their minds and be open to collaborating with team members. More importantly, they should view professional challenges that come their way as opportunities for learning and personal development.

VG: How do you achieve work-life balance?

AA: A healthy work-life balance involves managing personal well-being and professional commitments delicately. Here are a few things I do:

• I establish clear boundaries between my work and personal life. I focus solely on work-related tasks during work hours and personal/family-related tasks during personal time. I don’t allow them to overlap. However, there are times when urgent tasks emerge, requiring me to work over the weekend or take emergency leave during regular work hours; I can’t avoid these.
• I prioritize tasks by compiling a to-do list. I address high-priority items first and complete them quickly to have enough time for low-priority tasks.
• I take small breaks during work regularly to recharge my energy. It helps my productivity and prevents the risk of burnout.
• I use time-management techniques like prioritization, delegation, and time blocking to optimize my schedule and ensure task completion.
• I regularly engage in activities outside work, like exercising, socializing with friends, or entertainment, which helps me improve my overall well-being.
• I don’t hesitate to decline additional work or commitments if they hinder my work-life balance.
• I limit my phone and social media usage during work hours.
• I don’t hesitate to ask for help. When overwhelmed by the workload, I discuss it with my Manager to manage expectations and alleviate stress. Additionally, I seek support from friends, family, or professional resources when needed. Asking for help shows strength and proactive self-care rather than weakness.
• Establishing achievable goals and realistic deadlines helps me avoid overexerting myself and promotes a more balanced lifestyle.
• I do regular self-assessments to ensure I’m attuned to my well-being and allow priority adjustments when necessary.

We should understand that achieving work-life balance is an ongoing journey. As situations evolve, we must constantly adapt and recalibrate our priorities. We have to be flexible, not rigid.