M. Charlotte Oliver

My Work. My Life. My Stories

WORK HUSTLE: IS IT GOOD OR IS IT BAD? P2

The pandemic has changed how we work. Many office employees became remote workers. Now that many are receiving the COVID prevention vaccine, life begins to return to normal. However, many employees would rather continue to work from their home offices instead of resuming a commute to the office. Some employers are offering this opportunity to their employees, while others are against it. Organizations opting for employees to return are losing some staff members. However, those who adhere to “the hustle” to get ahead, are eager to move forward with this concept of returning to their workspaces, as soon as is deemed possible. 

According to a recent article on the topic of hustle, the author noted:

“Hustle culture is defined as a craze where people place professional aspirations at the forefront of everything else. Hustle culture has always been a part of our lives — the more you work, the more you make, and supposedly, the happier you will be. For some, the COVID-19 pandemic has provided a glimpse of what life would be like without the usual rush. For others, the pandemic has intensified hustle culture — either out of necessity or because of increased free time.”

Work-life balance is easier for some cultures in mainstream society. While in others, hustling is a must to maintain basic everyday survival. The pandemic did not take away this need for day-to-day survival in specific cultures; it has enhanced it. Hustling in Black and Brown communities is espoused by the need to do what it takes to feed their families. This ‘do’ is often honest work for meager pay. It is likewise exposed in the inequality of new Black and Brown college graduates forced to earn less than other graduates.

Specific communities are often forced to hustle from the point of zero. While other communities almost always have a starting point based on who they are and the opportunities that came before them. When someone can say that success came from the sweat off their backs and not from the effort of others before them, this view provides hope.  However, even with success stories as this one, the point is, to maintain success even at this caliber, some hustle may ensue to remain above water.

To the question, WORK HUSTLE: IS IT GOOD OR IS IT BAD? featured in the first blog on this subject. The answer to this question depends on who you are. Unfortunately, for some in society, hustling is a necessity to overcome inequality. It is a constant battle to be seen and heard based on valuable work and ideas, and likewise, it is a means of survival. As for others, hustling is a valorized luxury. Efforts to break the stigma of hustle must be designed to work for the higher good of both groups. For optimum whole-community effectiveness, hustling should be done together to provide great opportunities for every community member, and not just for some. 

 

Reference: 

Bell, A. G. (2021, May 12). The Quad: Hustle craze and the lasting effects of the pandemic on work life. UWIRE Text, 1.

 

Copyright © 2021 M. Charlotte Oliver | Powered by M. Charlotte Oliver

Following Work-ease Guidelines

To follow common everyday work-ease guidelines, unexpected travel this week has caused a delay on the continuation of the blog on work hustle. One may come later this week when I am settled once again in familiar surroundings or perhaps in next week.

This note does represent a reminder to you to make sure you continue to consider some of the ramifications of hustling. Backed by research, a few are:

  • Hustling can be draining, both emotionally and physically
  • Despite what some may believe, hustling really does not improve productivity
  • Hustling may only lead to short-term success
  • It could cause issues in everyday relationships
  • It creates areas of unnecessary external competition
  • If the idea of hustling is not halted, it won’t halt. It will continue to control every facet of life

Life is precious. Be sure to treat yourself well. Remember also to take time out when there’s a sense of chaos or overwhelm.

Enjoy this week!

 

Work Hustle: Is it good or is it bad?

 

By: M.Charlotte Oliver 

Last week this informational reflection focused on multi-tasking and briefly discussed why multi-tasking is not all it has been boosted to be. Although there are numerous available studies on this topic, the blog was supported by two research focused on multi-tasking’s role in slower productivity and lower intelligent quotient (IQ). Today, the perception of hustling is debated.

A recent article read, discussed that the pandemic has caused many to continue hustling. There are others who started hustling for the same purpose as those who did it before. Reasons mainly grounded in the need to make a living. However, what are the mental and physical effects of continuous hustling? Some say it is necessary to survive, while others say there must be a another equitable and just way for some in society to exist. The first part of this discussion on hustle focuses on what it is, and shares some perceptions of modern-day (2020-21) hustling.

In the year 2000 and after, the idea of hustling became an important factor in work-life balance. So many were consistently on the go to try to make ends meet, take a vacation, or live a good life. In this consultancy, when traveling, there are times when transportation from the airport is necessary. In ride-sharing discussions it is apparent that some drivers do so for a living or as a side-hustle. As of 2020, hustling was often considered chic. In fact, in some individuals it was believed that those who did not hustle, were just not ambitious enough. To be a go-getter, was the theme!

However, within the Covid-19 pandemic, it seems the once supported method of what it means to hustle and the ramifications of this were not in favor of the good life, after all. From young to old, numerous articles, research, and verbal discussions, showed that people who were supportive of consistent hustling, had second thoughts.

The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary describes hustle as:

Hustle comes from the Dutch word husselen, meaning “to shake,” reflected in the earliest use of the word in English, as a verb, with much the same meaning. The verb soon took on extended meanings, including “to crowd or push roughly,” “to obtain by energetic activity,” and “to obtain money by fraud or deception.” The noun use of hustle followed a path similar to that of the verb, moving from “an act of jostling” to “a job” and “a swindle.”

Here, it is considered in the context of work or job.

Hustle originally meant “to shake”. Shaking anything continuously, will often produce some form of change. In some individuals, this change comes/came as burn out. 

In her book Jacinta M. Jiménez wrote heavily on burn out and the importance of checking “steady-pulse practices”. She wrote:

“It’s one this to be successful, but if your definition of success means achieving at a cost of your personal vitality, I’d challenge you to question your definition. I’m not here to say working harder and working smarter aren’t good strategies at certain times; what I’m say is that in today’s always-on-and-connected world, if you aren’t regularly working to engage in a systematic approach to fostering resilience (aka steady-pulse practices), your efforts to work harder and/or smarter will be fleeting.”

She continues:

“Having a steady personal pulse is not just a “nice to have” or an “afterthought” that only gets tended to when you’re feeling run down. In today’s world of work, it is an imperative practice to ensure that you can perform at your best. Not only this, personal pulse practices are what will enable you to remain engaged, gritty, and productive over the long haul—in both work and life.” (pg. Introduction).

It is important to note that hustle is not always apparent to specific cultures. For instead it is a course taken by many whose motive is often financial, fame, or merit. However, hustling in most cases is ruled by the financial needs of those who struggle.

More discussion on ‘hustle’ is represented in next week’s reflection where different human impacts to measure-up, are given. Some areas of just-equity are also discussed. As in multi-tasking, hustling can be maintained and controlled to produced successful results. However, meeting these ends, require different mindsets and work applications.

 

Copyright © 2021 M. Charlotte Oliver | Powered by M. Charlotte Oliver

Multi-tasking: Why it is not always the best method for productivity.

By: M. Charlotte Oliver 

In this first blog of May 2021, the topic of one productivity blocker is discussed. With emails, texts, social media curiosities, the news, and many other distractions, it can be difficult to stay on task. Therefore, some people in specific environments choose to multi-task instead.

A few blogs ago, the idea of mindset was considered. Simply put, the brief writing was on how to extend the mind from current thoughts, actions, and circumstances to move into zones that are more productive and constructive, to perhaps accomplish more. The concept of accomplishing more, does not necessarily mean perfectionism, having to always be recognized, to compete with others or even to become the leader of the pack. What this simply means is to get done what is needed now or within allotted timelines.

The productivity blocker discussed today is multi-tasking. The ability to multi-task continues to be a buzzword sequence in business. Yet, it is important to be cautious when this mindset is adopted. Multi-tasking may offer some completion in the end; however, the chaos that sometimes accompany the method is oftentimes not worth the sense of achievement. This turmoil can even block joy.

Recent research on multi-tasking did not support the idea that it offers productivity. Instead, one study produced evidence that people who used this process were slower in their productivity based on their inability to focus on one project at a time. It does not matter how some individuals may think about the brain, the fact is the brain was designed to focus and interpret one thought at a time. No matter how much someone may try to change this process, this is its operational course. Another study conducted at the University of London also concluded that multi-tasking destroys IQ.

For people who believe that this method works, a suggestion is made here, to try to incorporate a scheduled multi-task process as a substitute.

A scheduled multi-task day may look like this…

  • 8am-9am: Send or answer emails
  • 9am-10:30: Task 1
  • 10:30am-12pm: Task 2
  • 12pm-1pm: Eat lunch then peruse social media if this is needed as part of the day
  • 1pm-1:30pm: Respond to emails
  • 1:30-2pm: Return phone calls
  • 2pm-3pm: Task 3
  • 3pm-4pm: Task 1
  • 4pm-4:45pm: Task 2
  • 4:45pm-5pm: Respond to emails. If no email to respond to, lock computer, then remove from work to begin the evening. 

Leaders, if a different work schedule is followed, it is still important to schedule out tasks. In addition, if there are less or more tasks to do, adjust the schedule as needed to meet deadlines. Also, if work requires a report to someone, be sure to discuss this new approach with this individual. Scheduled multi-tasking is a gentler and kinder approach to controlling overwhelmed feelings and confusion, which can often block productivity. Frankly, when it is suggested that people should multi-task without clear directions on how to do this, it has been argued and studied that this approach is often a recipe for calamity. Calamity that does not only appear at work, but likewise in the psyche of people who consistently implement this process.

Although current studies are focused primarily on how the brain functions for those who multi-task, there continue to be hopes of further research on whether this method is also physically damaging. If multi-tasking is a daily approach, consider other practices to complete everyday responsibilities. Holistic productivity is not always apparent in multi-tasking. On the contrary, unscheduled multi-tasking can be damaging in all aspects of work and life balance.

 

Preparation toward Celebration

In the past week I have been preparing for one of the most important presentations of my life. Yesterday, I presented, and today I celebrate the completion of my doctoral studies. I am elated and thankful to God. Unexpectedly, was the support from my committee to now prepare to submit my research study to numerous journals for publication.

The blog today represents one part of the celebration and the other is to take this week off to rest my mind after a long journey to completion.

I remain thankful to God my father for leading me here.

I’ll return next week with something offering a bit more words.

Until then, have a great week!

-C

 

How to Have a Moving Mindset P2

By: M. Charlotte Oliver

Last week this month’s blog began a short series on achieving and maintaining a moving mindset. This topic was chosen because it has been written and observed that many in Christian walks earnestly try to apply strategic biblical principles and steps within every project. The word try is used above, because there are obvious times when completely applying God’s word into daily work and life is really not apparent. Many willing to speak on this issue find that in recognition of this lack they are eventually led to change business applications and concepts to meet what God intended. The business leader focused on wealth, becomes more acquainted with the teachings of Jesus and she/he becomes a bit more compassionate in daily dealings. In addition, some church leaders are led to return to the gospel of Christ and the accurate teachings of his words more now than ever.

So why are every Christian, secular leader or individual expressing their daily lived experiences, often challenged by a stuck mindset? In response to this question when recently asked in casual conversations over lunch, two business owners equally shared that this challenge comes when they do not honor the person God has made them to be. But instead, they follow the footsteps of people who are not like them. Each added that in addition, there are even moments when they emulate those who seem to be on the right path but find out later, these individuals are not. One person shared, its like being in an unbreakable comfort zone.

The apostle Paul reminds us to hold on to a heavenly mindset (Colossians 3:1-4). A heavenly mindset is one focused on heavenly gifts not necessarily obtained only by works, but likewise by faith, and the daily applications of the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Every fruit Paul mentioned starts with the complete collaboration of body and spirit. They can also be interjected in life by how every member of society is viewed. This includes individual personal perceptions. A stuck mindset can also be one construed as being bias toward those in everyday settings or even sparked by the notion of one’s own abilities. Think now of how a homeless person can be viewed. This person God made, who has no place to sleep but under a cardboard box to stay warm on frigid evenings. Or perhaps the single mother who tries to be home to help her children with their homework, but instead must go to her third job to feed them. What can be immediate perceptions, specifically when unknown circumstances created each person’s situation?

According to several research studies, bias involves mindsets, behaviors, and actions that are discriminatory in favor of or contrary to one person or group compared to another. For the many church denominations in the world, bias exist in the sense that in every faith tradition beliefs and customs take precedence over the beliefs of others. Ministers who deny this bias, may not have come to understand the real meaning of the word. Therefore, to say bias does not exist within the church body, is mind-stagnancy. For a mindset to consistently change, acknowledging there exist errors and unawareness, as blockage to grow intellect, is paramount.

According to Andrew M. Coleman, intellect describes the process of identifying the ability of the mind to reach appropriate assumptions about what is real and what is misleading, and about how to resolve obstacles. The word intellect derives from the Greek philosophy term, nous. Nous translates to Latin as intellectus (from intelligere, which means to understand). In the English and French languages, it simply means to understand. Therefore, in everyday language, the words intellect and intelligence, cojoin.

In some weekly church sermons, it has been frequently noted that the Bible exceeds the intellectual mind. In partial agreement, this statement is highly considered, here. Yet, it is important to take into regard the real meaning of the word intellect, noted above. To embrace a framework of anti-intellectual in church settings, is one of the most severe approaches when it comes to completely understanding (intelligere) the words of God. This ideology could once again stunt growth.  In business concepts, when the leader of an organization holds the thesis of “his way or no way”, again the framework of anti-intellectual, is sometimes quite evident.  

A moving and transformative mindset is not always easy to adhere to. Here are a few simple ideas to possibly assist in taking that first step:

  1. Christian leaders- follow the real words of God. The church began on the theology of Christ. Not on ideas made up by the people around him. He professed the words of God written in the Old Testament. His speech to God was not to demand from God. He just asked his Father. When the real teachings of Christ is established in Christian communities, the mind shifts to the authenticity of who He is.
  2. Business leaders- get out of your comfort zone especially in the contexts of “change is not necessary” or “if it is not broken why worry”. The thing is, because of ingrained habits, it may be exceedingly difficult to see change is needed with no self confrontation.
  3. Christian leaders- seek out other leaders in the church who appear to be following God’s words. Allow these individuals to speak on their weaknesses and strengths. One primary question to ask yourself before requesting a meeting is “Does this leader begin a sermon with a life experience or begin with the Bible verse chosen for the day.” When you  derive at an answer, ask yourself, which one is of the most importance to you.
  4. Business leader-find another leader who positively directs in a way that is quite the opposite from you. Then ask this individual for a meeting.
  5. All leaders-reframe every mistake as a teachable moment.
  6. All leaders-remember there is always something to learn.
  7. All leaders- trust the talent you have and find areas to use this talent in productive and compassionate ways.

A moving mindset in every aspect of life does not usually happen overnight. Nonetheless, it is in recognizing that change is needed… that something has to give, the process begins. In this frame things become more obvious that one foot or one thought forward is the only route to arrive to the evolving mindset sought after.

 

Copyright © 2021 M. Charlotte Oliver | Powered by M. Charlotte Oliver

How to Have a Moving Mindset P1

For those of you who know me personally, you are aware that currently I am in the throes of many editorial research projects. In addition, I am also editing several publications. Life has been a bit chaotic these days. However, I push through.

Today, I thought to briefly step in to wish you a great week. If I am not traveling next week, I will touch more on the topic of obtaining and embracing a moving mindset. What I mean by this is, I’ll discuss how to not get stuck in your thoughts, which can produce stagnant behaviors. Being stuck is metaphorical. This means, being stuck looks different for everyone. This week I advise you to make a list of the pros and cons of why you may hold on to indecisive behaviors or even why you may say something negative without thinking things through. Yes, the latter is indeed being stuck. Even though there appears to be movement, the stuck can be negativity, aggressive behavior, jumping to conclusion or the need to be right. All as probable known comfort.

Be cognizant of how you feel in every situation or interaction with the people you know or those you would like to know better. Make note of your feelings, thoughts, and behavior. Go deeper with each feeling and assess them one by one.

Until next week, I hope you enjoy this simple exercise.

Happy Easter!

By: M: Charlotte Oliver

Holy week is a significant time for me. It has been since my early childhood. For this reason, I have taken this week off to reflect on Jesus and what he did for me. I encourage you to take time to do the same.

May your Easter be one filled with thankfulness and everlasting hope.

I’ll see you next week.

Common Natures of Self-sabotage

By: M.Charlotte Oliver

As a consultant, I am not void of criticism. When criticism occurs, it can be painful to hear, so much so that during these occurrences human nature often compels me to want to sling my opinion right back at the commenter. However, for the sake of avoiding self-sabotage through impulsive speech, I often listen and hold back my own opinions. In the space of the internet, cancel culture and criticism have become common practice. This makes the need to defend daily work, causes, beliefs, and suggestions extremely tempting. However, it is likewise important to step-back, to assess every situation. In the heat of the moment, remaining calm is vital.

Most research studies on self-sabotage focus on procrastination, addiction problems, and self-harm. However, as I have mentioned above, self-sabotage can also be apparent in chosen communicative responses led by perceptions. It can also appear in perfectionism, imposter syndrome, care of finances, family matters, and everyday relationships. And often people are not aware that these common behaviors are the very ones holding back success.

The root causes of self-sabotage can be biological or environmental. In some cases, both constructs are its source. Research studies show that childhood trauma can undermine a successful future. On the flip side, this type of trauma can also drive some individuals to a life of perfectionism. Another concern is when success is apparent, some people may believe they are not worthy or deserving. Environmental links can show up in daily associations, life experiences, and choices.

Self-sabotage in business is rising. This may be present in sexual misconduct both physical and in speech, racism, ableism, xenophobia, heterosexism, antisemitism, and sexism. Beliefs and doctrines could wake up sleeper cells holding principles that some of these issues are not of God, creating interpersonal conflicts and spiraling self-sabotaging behavioral patterns.

When it becomes evident that problems exist, it is important to conduct a self-assessment either alone or with a professional therapist. In addition, one general conflict management tool is:

-Clarify Communication

  • Speak your mind with your heart as your guide.
  • Attentive listening.
  • Be conscious of speech when expressing feelings.
  • Remain logical.
  • Review and then ask questions.
  • Give each person a chance to speak and allow the same for yourself.
  • Avoid hurtful statements.

The Bible tells us that “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.” – Proverbs 25:28

Whether self-sabotaging behaviors are personal or includes other interdependent parties, it is certainly something to investigate. Careful assessments of its root causes provide individuals with the tools to begin healthier life journeys. Biologically every person is different, it is important to remain open minded when it has been determined that change must come. Self-sabotage is dangerous in all contexts. It destroys the human spirit. As life slowly returns to normal, churches will be at full capacity. Office cubicles will most likely be filled again, Lunchtime with team members…a must! Travel on full airplanes, and more people to share the world with again…all of this! 

We are a connected people. And, to holistically connect with people, self-sabotage type behaviors must be treated and released!

Copyright © 2021 M. Charlotte Oliver | Powered by M. Charlotte Oliver

5 Effective Ways to Lead Change

By: M. Charlotte Oliver 

This week’s blog as the one before, is short and hopefully helpful. Much change is coming my way, which will skew my schedule both here in the United States (US) and abroad. I continue to pray for good health as God leads me on these journeys. The last year has brought everyone to deep places of discernment and reflection. And often when applied individually and collectively, transformation comes. Transformation liked and those disliked are sometimes required to excel and experience success.

For this reason, in this quick expression, I highlight a few steps toward organizational modification in leadership models. My brief suggestions are:

  • No matter your business model, be sure to know your intent. Infusing a SWOT analysis is equally important in this step because it lays the framework to identify what you know, what you need to know, what is readily available to you, and understand competitors models and what hindrances are threats.
  • Get your team involved. Consistently ask their opinions.
  • Be sure to listen carefully without preconceive thoughts and prepared responses.
  • Remain congruent when it comes to suggestions.
  • Stay focused on the course. Make constant adjustments, if needed.

The success of your business takes careful approaches, which should include every person involved. Transparency is the key when change is necessary. Remember, in business God knows everything, but those who report to you do not.  Try to remain vigilant about sharing vital information! 

Copyright © 2021 M. Charlotte Oliver | Powered by M. Charlotte Oliver

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