Thursday 15 December 2011

Syncing bookmarks with XMARKS

Recently I found this useful tool to sync my bookmarks between multiple computers with the same identity.   It can sync your bookmarks across different browsers which includes Firefox, Chrome and IE.   I found it extremely useful between office and home whenever I don't carry my laptop.   Apart from bookmarks, you an also sync your history and open tabs which I haven't used.

For more info - you can visit www.xmarks.com

Saturday 10 December 2011

Developing The Leader Within You

Recently I read a book called by DEVELOPING THE LEADER WITHIN YOU by John C Maxwell.  The book is highly motivating, insightful and every people manager should keep a copy as a ready reckoner. 

After reading thru, I thought of jotting down the following useful observations

  • People want to be listened, respected and understood 
  • Consistency and Integrity are two major behaviors a leader should develop.
  • Capitalize on opportunities to develop people
  • Use 'We' instead of 'I'
  • Confront in private and appreciate in public.   Do these quickly
  • Embrace change one at a time
  • Select people who can help you with the change
  • Encourage risk taking
  • Seek continuous feedback and show visible improvements
  • Do a project with the team embracing one change that would instill confidence on people 
  • Always show empathy

Well, there are many other thoughts in the book with some lively examples and illustrations.   But, I thought the above ones are simply the most important one that any leader should possess.

Wednesday 7 December 2011

Diamante Poems

My son introduced me to Diamante Poems today.    A Diamante poem is a written in the shape of a diamond.   It starts with a one word topic and ends with a one word either in favor or against the topic.  The flavor to the poem is given using adjectives and ing-words.  

My first Diamante poem...