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Stephen Boyd: Beyond Limits

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With the arrival of the new year, it is important to remind ourselves that hesitation is one of the highest forms of opportunity cost. No matter what we may think our constraints or limitations are, we can generally push ourselves further.”

Stephen Boyd MBA(FS) Class of 2018

Crossing the Finish Line Lake Placid Ironman

Crossing the Finish Line Lake Placid Ironman

“All limits are self imposed.”  Icarus

In 2010, I decided to start running, inspired by a family member, who began competing in ultramarathons at age 50. The following year, it was no surprise to family when I casually announced that it was my intention to complete in an Ironman triathlon (4 Km swim, 180 Km bike, and 42.2 Km run- all within a 17-hour time limit). Despite my relative inexperience in running and cycling, I took on the challenge of training 20+ hours a week, which often included waking up at 3:15 AM.  I recall that on one occasion, a police officer asked me why I was cycling at such an absurd time of the day. On July 22, 2012, at 11:43 PM, I crossed the finish line at the Lake Placid Ironman. It was an affirmation to continue striving for goals that seemed beyond my limits.  The honours of that day belonged to a 75-year old triathlete, who successfully completed the race.

I went on to pursue the Ironman Muskoka in 2015, welcoming the challenges and obstacles of training for an endurance event.  Mission accomplished! My personal circumstances during this time period changed; my son was born, my career became more demanding, and I was now studying for an MBA at Dalhousie University. I set some onerous goals for my studies, since I have in mind to some day pursue a PhD. Despite personal challenges and the time restrictions that accompany a robust academic journey, I graduated with distinction as the 2018 Director’s Award recipient for highest academic achievement.

To be clear, I have never been a gifted athlete (average at best), nor do I claim to have above-average intelligence. However, I am a firm believer that our personal frame of mind is often the largest obstacle in achieving personal objectives.  Many years ago, I was involved a bad car accident. It was a pivotal moment.  It was then that I resolved that I would no longer hesitate to pursue ambitious goals, no matter what life chose to throw at me. For instance, at present I am working through an injury which will prevent me from competing in a 100-mile ultramarathon this summer. Admittedly, I found myself expressing negativity about my injury; but I have since shifted my frame of mind and re-directed my energy to other ventures, which may include swimming from New Brunswick to Prince Edward Island in August.

With the arrival of the new year, it is important to remind ourselves that hesitation is one of the highest forms of opportunity cost. No matter what we may think our constraints or limitations are, we can generally push ourselves further. For a little extra motivation, look up the inspiring story of Ironman Team Hoyt.

Stephen J. Boyd MBA(FS) Class of 2018

Stephen J. Boyd MBA(FS) Class of 2018

Stephen J. Boyd, MBA(FS) Class of 2018, was the recipient of the prestigious Rowe School of Business Award for Highest Academic Achievement. CEGE Connection is pleased to advise that Stephen has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CEGE Connection.

 

Dr. Sandra Toze: Open Data – What has been accomplished

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“Digital technologies are transforming the structures of society: governments, business, educational institutions, entertainment, travel. Without question, the governance of information and the need for advanced information skills are essential to realize the potential of this field of enquiry.”
Dr. Sandra Toze, Director, School of Information Management, Dalhousie University

Dr. Sandra Toze Director, School of Information Management Dalhousie University

Dr. Sandra Toze
Director, School of Information Management
Dalhousie University

The potential of open data is enormous.  Much has been accomplished over the past few years, which has encouraged us to look back and reflect upon the knowledge that has been acquired to date. How can we measure and quantify what has been done and how can we use this information to plot the trajectory of open data? There is considerable rhetoric around this dynamic topic, which prompts the need for a deeper and more inclusive dialogue.   Open data has the potential to be disruptive even as it offers positive outcomes.  We recognize that there will be challenges, setbacks and curves to be experienced along the way.   Without question, open data offers an exciting journey that will continue to influence and transform our world and the way we interact within a digital environment.

Open Data

The definition of open data that has been agreed upon within this field in enquiry, is data that can be freely used, shared and employed as a foundation upon which to build, by anyone for any purpose. The definition encompasses many aspects of information management such as quality of data:  completeness, timeliness, the ease of electrical transferability, access, and machine readable.  It also involves standards.  One of the ideas we are looking at within Canada, is making sure that we can incorporate municipal, provincial and federal data seamlessly.  The power of data comes with the ability to link data from different places, in different sections, in different ways.  Which brings us back to standards, licensing, permissions. Questions like “who owns the data” are critical to our ongoing dialogue.

My goal is to demystify was is currently in place and look at ways in which we can measure and implement ongoing measurement tools to assess our progress so far and prepare for the next stage of the journey. For us to move forward with open data initiatives, we need in increase the overall data literacy, within our profession and within the public.  As educators, SIM is creating a data literacy course at the undergraduate level to respond to this need. We need to recognize that this gap must be filled for us to fully enjoy the benefits and influence of open data.

The promise of open data gives us the impetus to continue our research:

  • Positive internal outcomes such as measuring programs and improving efficiencies
  • Involving citizens more directly in decision-making processes and enabling collaboration on technological projects
  • Civil society groups and journalists hope to make use of open data to increase transparency and aid democracy
  • Advocates of open data hope to improve government’s internal and external communication, and lead to innovation and transformation of society

We live in a world that has the technological resources and capacity to amass data at an exponential rate. Working together, we have the opportunity to harness the power and potential of open data.

Dr. Sandra Toze
Director, School of Information Management
Dalhousie University
January 2019

Rick Nason: Striving for Success in 2019

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Dr. Rick Nason

Dr. Rick Nason

 

We have entered 2019, a fresh new year of opportunities and challenges that will engage our time, resources and imaginations.  Whatever project, work or activity we undertake, there is a hope, an expectation of success.  But how do we define “success” and experience an authentic sense of accomplishment that enlivens and vitalizes our spirits.

In the weeks leading up to the end of 2018, CEGE Connection reached out to Dr. Rick Nason for his thoughts on the pursuit of success in 2019.   We are pleased to present the first post in a series by Dr. Rick Nason that will discuss the theme of success within our dynamic, ever-changing global world. We invite you to join the conversation.

 

Dr. Rick Nason:

Success is having the strive to get better.  If you still have the strive to get better, then you are a success.  In business (and in life), perfection is not real.  Perfection is nothing more than a concept.  No one is perfect, and no one achieves perfection.  No organization is perfect, and no organization achieves perfection.  However, that does not mean that perfection is not worthy of our efforts.  (In the same way, success is nothing more than a concept that no one, or no organization ever really achieves, but a concept that is very much worth striving for regardless.)

It is important to note that striving to get better does not always mean that you will be getting better continually.  Striving to get better means that you will need to take risks – some of which may not pay off.  Striving to get better involves detours, and doubts and set-backs.  Striving to get better is not a linear (much less an exponential) upward path.  Striving to get better comes with no guarantees – either explicit or implicit.

Success is enjoying the strive (even though it is not always enjoyable).  Success is embracing the strive (although often the strive is ugly and unlikable).  Success is getting high on the endorphins that striving provides (although striving just as often produces headaches and heartaches and the most dreaded esteem aches). Success is realizing the value of the strive to become your best self is success personified in you, your thoughts, and your actions.

Happy New Year 2019

Golnaz Zilabi: Opportunities, Innovative Thinking, Building Resilience

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 “I was amazed by the level of energy that I had when striving to achieve my goals. I embraced a flexible mindset and enjoyed collaborating with my classmate.  Being receptive to other point of views opened opportunities for innovative thinking. It all came down to being adaptable to my new lifestyle and including time-management strategies into daily routines. The outcome of my studies has been increased resilience and well-being.”

Golnaz Zilabi Class of 2019

Golnaz Zilabi, MBA(FS) Class of 2019

Golnaz Zilabi, MBA(FS) Class of 2019

Golnaz Zilabi, Portfolio Analyst at RBC Wealth Management Private Banking, was a member of “IRIS Cameras,” International Business class team that finished 1st place in the GLO-BUS simulation exercise conducted during IB Winter 2018.

In a recent virtual interview, Golnaz shared her thoughts on accepting the challenge of a robust academic journey and how her studies influenced her personal and career goals.

Golnaz Zilabi:

My reasons for pursuing MBA studies were both personal and work-related.  I recognized the MBA(FS) brand and Dalhousie’s prestigious reputation meant nationwide recognition of my credentials and an enhanced business and career standing within my profession. My position as senior account manager and extensive experience in the financial services industry provided an excellent foundation upon which to broaden my knowledge and strategic mindset.  I am curious and have an infinite interest and appetite for deeper learning that opens new possibilities and career opportunities that come when interacting within large business networks. I appreciate connecting with other finance professionals and executives.  Accepting an academic journey satisfied my innate need to explore new ideas and challenge myself to attain a greater understanding of our complex world.

There is no limit to what you can accomplish with an MBA(FS), given the variety of courses and material covered during the program.  Students are furnished with solid basis of business fundamentals, specifically in financial industry. The future promises astonishing changes within our work forces and job functions. Professors create learning environments that promote vibrant dialogues and inspire leadership qualities.  I always had a goal to take my career to a new direction and pursue opportunities and challenges which I had previously never encountered.

I viewed the MBA(FS) as an investment in myself with the aim of developing another versatile and valuable career path within my existing organization. My academic journey has influenced my career path even as it has transformed my personal outlook. I have developed my autonomy and strengthened my analytical skills and knowledge which I adhere in my day-to-day routines as a Portfolio Analyst. My management and communication skills have been heightened, adding personal credibility in my chosen career path.

As a Mother of two small children, I tackled the challenges of balancing my studies, career and spending quality time with my family. I received inspiration from my beloved husband and truly treasured his ongoing support and encouragement.  The flexibility of program was invaluable.  I appreciated how the Centre for Executive and Graduate Education tailored the courses to my individual needs and enabled me to develop a plan that fulfilled my commitments. I learned how to proactively prioritize and schedule my time. As soon as I figured out my rhythms, I was able to assign my times accordingly. I also considered my learning style and developed a model which worked for me most effectively. I used every resource available to me as a student and adapted to my new lifestyle.

I was amazed by the level of energy that I had when striving to achieve my goals. I embraced a flexible mindset and enjoyed collaborating with my classmate.  Being receptive to other point of views opened opportunities for innovative thinking. It all came down to being adaptable to my new lifestyle and including time-management strategies into daily routines.  The outcome of my studies has been increased resilience and well-being.

CEGE Connection is pleased to advise that Golnaz has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CEGE Connection.

Happy New Year – Welcome to 2019

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“For last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning.

T.S. Eliot, Four Quartets

Shetland

 

January 1, 2019 marks the beginning of a New Year that holds the realization of fresh challenges and opportunities, celebrations and milestones. Whether or not you entertain making New Year’s resolutions, there is a reflective moment that accompanies the transition from one year to another.  It is a milestone that allows us to examine the passage of time and look forward to what comes next.  Whatever that may be, our efforts and energies are focused on adding to the breadth and depth of knowledge and experience.  In so doing, we are active participants in creating positive outcomes, now and for future generations.

As we bid farewell to the Year 2018, the words of T.S. Eliot remind us that with endings there are beginnings that await our voice, our contribution. Welcome to 2019 and the many conversations that are waiting for us in the coming months.

We invite you to join the discussion.

Rebecca Budd
Editor & Blog Coordinator
CEGE Connection

Mary Parker Follett: Final Thoughts for the Year 2018

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“More than one hundred years after the publication of her first book in 1896, Mary P. Follett (1868–1933) remains one of our preeminent thinkers about democracy and social organization. Without the benefit of modern research methods, Follett developed such original, penetrating analyses of leadership, power and authority, conflict, and group behavior that her ideas form the basis of much of our modern discourse about organizations and management.”

Tonn, P. J. C. (2003). Mary P. Follett: Creating Democracy, Transforming Management [Kindle iOS version Location 113].

The New State by Mary Parker Follett

The New State by Mary Parker Follett

The New State by Mary Parker Follett is not an easy read.  The concepts presented within the pages of a book published 100 years ago, continues to inspire us to think deeply and consider individual responsibility within a group dynamic.

Mary Parker Follett’s greatest gift was her ability to listen intently to everyone, irrespective of their “position” in society – factory workers, shop girls, or presidents of large corporations.  She believed that every voice counted – and it was not lip service. She was above all a determined pragmatist with a philosophy that we can organize our lives and institutions so that everyone can contribute.  While we may consider this rather optimistic, I have seen glimpses of this possibility.  We live in a world that thrives on complexity, but I believe that resilience comes when individuals participate in a greater, more inclusive, conversation.

As we prepare to welcome a New Year, the last word belongs to a woman who passionately believed in the reality of integrating the diversity of cultures for the greater good. Mary Parker Follett valued differences, maintaining that together we gain strength and renewal, as individuals, as groups, as a society.

To complete our series on Mary Parker Follett, I am joined by Annie Giraudou, MBS(FS)Class of 2007 and Yvonne Thevenot  MBA(FS) Class of 2001, who have been following Dr. McLarney’s series on Mary Parker Follett.

Rebecca Budd
Editor & Blog Coordinator
CEGE Connection

Annie Giraudou:

I have enjoyed reading “The New State” by Mary Parker Follett. I find I must take time to reflect on the ideas brought forth. One phrase stands out for me “There is a need for competent leaders and a need for competent group members”.  We are seeing more research and novels focusing on the need for “followers”; emphasis being that we cannot all be leaders and that someone must effectively do the work.  This is directly related to the obligation as a member to take that position seriously and contribute to the success of the team; not just the leader, but the entire team.  I am seeing similar views on the extrovert versus introvert position.  Could there be something to more Eastern cultures who favour “introversion” and team member contribution?  Unbelievably, this question of requiring both types to make an efficient team and society was put to paper 100 years ago by Mary Parker Follett!  Maybe it is about time we looked at all types to create a more balanced society.

Yvonne Thevenot:

It is fascinating in business to see the emergence of “Agile” implementation framed as a new concept for organizing structures. Or in change management the idea of “listening posts” or “Ask Me Anything” sessions… This discussion and highlighting key aspects of the work from such a prominent thinker as Mary Parker Follett through the practical today’s language of Dr. McLarney truly demonstrates to me how long it takes for societal change to truly evolve. Thank you for sharing!

Mary Parker Follett 1868 - 1933

Mary Parker Follett 1868 – 1933

 

“The most successful leader of all is the one who sees another picture not yet actualized. He sees the things which are not yet there… Above all, he should make his co-workers see that it is not his purpose which is to be achieved, but a common purpose, born of the desires and the activities of the group.”

Mary Parker Follett

 

 

Season’s Greetings!

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Season’s Greetings!  Wishing you the joy of family, the warmth of friends and the gifts of laughter, peace, and love.

“I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach!”

 Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

 

Christmas Reflection

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