Samik Roy_BLP052_Self Leadership_May 2012

The official first class in SOIL is just over and I think there could not have been a better start than this in our journey at SOIL.

A daylong session on “Self Leadership” might sound boring, but at the end of the day, almost all of us were left mesmerised by Anil sir’s lectures.

The class started with a question which made all of us think. “What is the most important question you need to ask yourself to be a leader?” This question led us to understand and realize the “Six Layers of Self” which are:

1.       The outermost layer - Body which has senses and perception, which receives the diverse data.

2.       The perception is governed by the next layer – Instinct – which might be different at times.

3.       Instinct is governed by the next layer which is Emotions which occur in mind. Emotions lead to compassion.

4.       Emotions are governed by the next layer – Intellect – which occur in the brain and leads to ethics.

5.       Intellect is governed by Ego-Values/Habit/Fear – which guides to sustainability

6.       Finally all these above layers are controlled by the ‘life giving force’ – the absolute Truth which leads to Mindfulness.

It can be understood that the five pillars of SOIL have been derived from these layers of life.

Through a series of activities, I learnt that it is not only ‘Self realization’, but an inspired leader should also master other effects of communication in the form of observation, listening and touch. It was so fascinating to realize how much emotions can be conveyed through eyes without uttering a single word. Also, proper listening helps in forming an emotional bond with the speaker. Great leaders are great listeners. The power always lies with the listeners and great listeners are the ones who can state what the speaker ‘implies’ and not just ‘speaks’. Communication through touch helps in transforming energy between people and can create a sense of oneness. It can be also used to express a form of Empathy.

By sharing different stories and experiences, Anil sir conveyed to us some critical thoughts which relate to philosophy and spirituality. He concluded saying that we should realise our strengths and excel on them and not crib on our development needs.

As I write this blog thinking about today’s class. I feel fortunate to attend this session and look forward to attend many such sessions.