The something that can buy you everything!

John D. Rockefeller once said, "The ability to deal with people is as purchasable a commodity as sugar or coffee, and it is worth more than any other commodity under the sun." Social skill is indeed the most important possession one can have. Some are born with it and their experiences further enrich them. For others, all is not lost, this, like most other things, can be bought.

A person who can understand, win over and influence others is an asset. They are able to convey expectations, motivate those around and propogate beliefs to achieve appropriate results. So much so job interviews are riddled with questions and tests to judge interpersonal skill. We also see companies investing money in coaching their employees on the same. From learning how to hold converstions and controlling body language to effective listening, there are many courses that are offered even to individuals for a variety of age groups and job profiles. Just running a search on the Internet would show how many avenues are open for those who want to learn said skill.

People skills, again are not only for those who want to advance their career. This helps in every aspect of life, be it in an organization, sports arena or just at home. I remember being head girl in school, not in a way that makes me proud. Resented by my peers because I had just joined, I kept to myself and lost out on friends. I did not do as well on my studies as I could have due to the fact that I did not share my responsibilities. Sometimes I look back and have regrets about not trying to resolve issues and building a relationship with my classmates at the time.

Being able to deal with people and to build interpersonal relationships is truly worth more than anything. It can help you secure things that can and cannot be purchased. Things you can buy as basic as sugar or coffee and things you cannot such as friends, respect and loyalty. And like every other skill, this too can be perfected by practice.

Complicated Me!?!

Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves
- Henry David Thoreau

The past few work weeks have been the worst, since I started in 2005. Not because of the load or having to spend 12+ hours in front of the computer. I've had more than my fair share of those days and they were a breeze. It’s just that I don't feel motivated anymore. No one seems to be bothered about challenges at work or the lack thereof. Seems like everyone around has sort of settled into the daily rut. And yes, that was me as well, until recently.

I don't think I thought of what I really wanted 10 years down the line when I took up a job straight out of college. Four and half years have gone by and I don't know if I still have an answer. But, the thought has occurred. In an effort to get out of my current predicament, I sold myself to an idea of getting an MBA. (ee yea... I know it has a negative connotation to it - read on)

These few days, I've been irritated with work and all that goes along. Knowing it’s not taking me anywhere and that it’s not half as stimulating as a history lesson, I haven't been able to give it my 100%. Then, I've sulked enough to let it get in the way of my GMAT prep.

The past few work weeks have truly been the worst, but also the best. I've been forced to think of what I really want and if anything, now I'm sure that an MBA is the way to go. I am all set to take on another day at work. It’s the same old, same boring stuff. However, there is something different. I have a plan, or at least, I think I do ;)