Writing ‘concepts notes’ on management is a habit that I have cultivated on my small desk as faculty. As I write this column, I return to that old habit and ask myself ‘what is the main idea I wish convey in this note. ?’

 But there is a difference this time. Now, I am writing on a large- size desk. A new role and responsibility! The open space around the desk in the room reminds me that I have to go beyond old habits of thinking. I need to pay attention to small and large issues at the same time. The open space compels me to express the learning and unlearning I have acquired in new position.

 It is about the ‘Action and Reflection’. As an “Academic”, I recognized the power of reflection and considered it as the primary mode of learning from experience. I have modified my opinion now.

I have realized that reflecting on past data and the post mortem comments are irrelevant in the context of current reality. It results in a blame- game or sterile intellectual analysis on what went wrong. Certainly, it would not help in understanding what needs to be done in here and now situation .There is no substitute for action or karma. The executive as an actor or Karta needs this orientation since. it is the response to day to day demands of the situation that justifies his /her role. One gets an outcome only when action takes place. Wishful or muddled thinking would not give the desired outcome. Simple and purposeful action steps are needed every day.

But wait! Pressing the action button every day may lead the executive in the trap of fire fighting and problem -fixing. That is a technician’s job and it is ok in that field. Action for what purpose is a question that one has to ask. Executive engages in action for one reason which is generally ignored by him/her in the busy schedule.

It is important to recognize that at work place action is primary mode of getting valid information. It is erroneous to believe that decision and action need to be based on full information. .  Management students in our classrooms give this excuse. They postpone decisions even in classroom and expect adequate information in case study sessions. But the reality is that action is the main source and possible avenue to get valid or relevant information. The reality is with ambiguity and potential risk but the soft alternative to action is procrastination.
We learn only from experience those disastrous consequences of procrastination. And one has to fight hard with the irrational compulsions of being trapped in this mind -set. We need a flow of positive energy to engage with action on a sustainable basis.

The point is that if the focus of action is urgent issue and problem it would take us away from the purpose that justifies action. . One would lose a sense of purpose while fighting the day to day battles that need urgent attention. The executive role would require some special time and space for important rather than urgent issues.

These are some random thoughts that I write from a large- size desk in my new role   at IMDR

 Action and Reflection: It is connected with my daily struggle to balance the academic and executive roles.  Certainly, these are not the last words on the subject .More ideas are always welcome. . .

Dr Susheel Kandalgaonakar