Our management development programs draws upon stories, excerpts from classics, movies, role plays, discussions and free-flow sessions. Literature is the bedrock of methodology in the programs conducted by Advait.
Literature, Human Nature and Leadership: Literature is an interpretation of human and social nature by the writer. Literature addresses the perennial questions of meaning, purpose, vision, values and existence. Great pieces of literature present the complexity of human relations, to enable the reader to interpret and come to his or her own conclusions. Its this interpretation that is the key to personal growth.
So how does the study of literature help in preparing for this role as leaders? It helps the readers learn to interpret life of themselves, of others. A serious study of great works of literature broadens ones viewpoint and helps in self development. It helps in attaining greater breadth and capacity to respect others opinions, and ability to put things in perspective and see a holistic picture. It also helps in attaining the versatility that allows one to switch from one subject to another and deal concurrently with many subjects. And finally, it gives greater ability to perceive, conceptually interpret and judge.
The ability to see the common thread linking all human endeavors and emotions, and the ability to keep in mind the bigger picture, the perspective, are closely linked. Literature helps build this holistic perspective by bringing in the simple yet eternally powerful techniques of story-telling and dramatization. Human beings have a great flair for stories. A story is the most basic and most effective way of weaving together different aspects of activity, thought and existence. The whole world exists but as a story inside the human psyche. |