The Ramayana has not only taught us ways of life, but it has, on most occasions, giving us a reason to seek victory over evil. Let’s take an interesting twist on it—have you realized that such texts may just also have management tips, if you read between the lines a bit?
Have you ever wondered that Maryada Purushottam Ram might have been a managerial figure too? If not, you have stumbled upon the right place. Here are 5 management tips that you missed out on!
Ram is known as Maryada Purushottam because he upheld ethics and established a code of life, or a code of conduct. For instance, no matter how perilous the situation on the battlefield, Ram would never take advantage of an unarmed foe. Ethical practices are very important in today’s trying times of cutthroat competition.
As an enterprise, compartmentalisation becomes a must. After all, the sum of the specialized units of the enterprise should create more value than a single head itself. That forms the basis of teams and the distribution of responsibility thereof.
Think about how Ram entrusted Naal and Nil with the creation of the bridge to Lanka. He was aware of their abilities, which were building and construction of structures. Quite naturally, Maryada Purushottam Ram showed us how compartmentalisation could lead to success in the grander scheme of things. Similarly, Lakshmana had a high battle-IQ, and quite naturally he was entrusted with the army.
Businesses need alliances and are formed on the fundamentals of networking. Think of how Maryada Purushottam Ram formed an alliance with Sugriva. Sugriva was a mediocre manager but had a good battle IQ. However, he had one motivating factor like no other—the fact that his kingdom was taken away.
Maryada Purushottam Ram understood this and naturally formed an alliance. He also got his kingdom back. This goes to show that alliances benefit all.
When Mahiravan abducted Ram and Lakshmana, the entire burden of responsibility shifted to Hanuman. Prior to this, Hanuman burnt Lanka after knowing where Sita was abducted, and this decision was looked down upon by Ram.
Naturally, Hanuman did not feel at ease when he had to take command. Despite this, he had one thing in mind. No matter how grave the situation, Maryada Purushottam Ram had always asked him to think independently. That is what allowed him to rescue the two protagonists.
The case is no different in the workplace. Leaders should identify potential leaders, and assign them responsibilities at grassroots levels. This would not only result in more efficient work at such levels, but also ease some burden off of the leader’s shoulders.
Maryada Purushottam Ram has been the epitome of modesty. Despite possessing great knowledge of the Astras, and Shastras, as well as being the best archer of the times, there was not an ounce of hubris in him.
This is one of the most important lessons to be learned in management. If you want to touch the lives of all the people under you, you have to practice humility. That way, more people trust you. More people listen to you. More people get more work done. Productivity wins!
