MUKTA at work- Liberating Human Potential

18/08/2024

Rakhi Is SO not Protest !

Rakhi (rakshabandhan) is here - I was watching some popular reels about women "safety" versus "protection" being circulated . I also heard poetry being recited about a woman wanting to be a man to feel safe (kaash mai ladka hoti - made me wonder how many men sleep without locking their doors today?) etc. There is absolutely no denying that safety is a genuine concern - Particularly in the context of heinous crimes in the country, the issue of women safety comes to the fore and so alive for us. But safety (like equality) is SO NOT not something one should be “asking” for. "Asking" for comes from the presumption of the "lack of it" one feels within oneself. If you feel like a fearful rabbit in a jungle , so you are/become , if you feel like a graceful and powerful tigress , so you are/become . Safety it is so FUNDAMENTAL that it needs to be “given” to each other by instinct.
I see protection / feeling protective as - affection, care and trust and not as patriarchy . Protection and nurturance is an instinct which has nothing to do with gender - a mother being protective about her baby , a human feeling protective about her significant others , you feeling protective about your sibling or lover and your loved one is an instinct. And I would even extend it all the way to you being protective about your values and ideas and your boundaries and self esteem and not allowing violation .
Even if the ritual of tying a "dhaaga" (thread) was set in the patriarchal tradition (and idea of a brother protecting a sister possibly based on differences in physical strength and the era in which it came by ) - in the changing context the manifestation has changed - but the essence of the ritual is still about protection and care and affection as feelings towards someone.
In fact I also watched an interesting ad showing a brother tying a Rakhee to his sister who is serving in the forces . It is heartening to see change and tradition being seen with fresh eyes.
Rakhi to me is SO NOT a "morcha" about gender or protest as it is being made out to be in some in popular reels.
Rakhi is just a reminder for an affectionate gaze and attention you pay towards a sibling towards this relationship that important to you . And why can’t the same humanly gaze of care and concern be towards a neighbor , a stranger or someone you just met on a train ?
To me Rakhi reminds us of what is "natural" to us as natural as the rakhi flower on the image - our vulnerabilities and our instincts of protection and nurturance of each other irrespective of gender .and whether or not we feel safe as people is a Matter that need not take away from the beauty of this tradition.
Tradition must ofcourse be seen with new and fresh eyes , made tweaks to given the new and current context , but it’s essence needs to be valued . And if WE as people genuinely focus on the essence of love and care and concern and listening and trusting and nurturance for each other , we may transcend to a space where basics like safety may not even remain a concern for the world anymore.
Let’s not limit Rakhi to conversations about gender - let’s look at it in perspective and stay with the essence. And Maybe even move it to a higher space and a newer realm.
Wish you all a festive Rakhi. May it be a reminder and a celebration of all that is divine in you.
Mukta

Dr Mukta Kamplikar

Rakhi (rakshabandhan) is here - I was watching some videos about women safety versus protection . I also heard poetry being recited about a woman wanting to be a man to feel safe (kaash mai ladka hoti - made me wonder how many men sleep without locking their doors today?) etc.

08/07/2024

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/StHcD4F5YE5QqDaN/?mibextid=WC7FNe

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04/07/2024

The Question of Belonging

Being a social scientist I learnt that the idea of belonging is so important and if belonging is missing, there is suffering. We grew up with long standing messages of valuing “perception” – “Oh so what will the other think, do , say if you do or say that ”. The “other” was such an integral part of us and our behavioral world. This happened to us so many times that we probably forgot to “disagree” and developed some disproportionate amount of fear of standing alone. Because standing alone meant suffering , it meant exclusion in various ways.

And when we stood alone we also often developed questions of – self-worth and we even felt abandoned – For eg - my self talk would go like “I must be wrong, if I am not then why is no one supportive of me , why am I a part of gossip ? why have they left me alone?”

It is in time that I have explored this idea of belonging everywhere and in a way actually nowhere outside me – To me it means being with them , belonging to them , loving them but also having the courage to stand alone and love me and to nurture me and ask for help when I feel abandoned.

I have explored the idea of not measuring my worth and my belonging by others because my idea of belonging resides within me. I will not negotiate that with anyone. Because If I do that I might fit in for them in the moment but I will then not belong to myself. And I am not willing to do that.

I am ok with not doing what is “comfortable – fun fast and easy or acceptable” all the time . It might just be a difficult path - to belong everywhere and nowhere – but I think I belong to such an interesting space.

Through whatever I do or say here on this journey -
I belong to you and I belong to me.

Soliloquy | Being and Becoming – A little book of choices | Mukta | 2024

03/07/2024

The 3rd of July happens to be Franz Kafka’s birthday. Franz Kafka, a luminary of 20th-century literature, is renowned for his distinctive exploration of existential anxiety, bureaucratic absurdity, and the human condition. I felt inspired to write about some of his work today – more specifically addressing leaders and their ideas of leadership. Sharing one of my paintings inspired by the strange melancholy I have felt while reading Kafka's work.
I first read Metamorphosis when I was an adolescent , it felt very weird to me , kind of depressing . I even dreamt of Gregor Samsa and woke up in the middle of the night. In time I grew up to understand and appreciate Kafka and his ideas of the human condition – the various perspectives he made us see. I work with executives and find very interesting patterns emerging from biases , alienation , bewilderment , abandonment , complexes etc. and it makes me think of Kafka's work and some ideas it may have for modern Leadership. While Kafka's works might seem far removed from the world of leadership, a closer examination reveals profound insights that can inform and enhance modern leadership practices.
Ambiguity and Uncertainty
Kafka's narratives, such as "The Trial" and "The Castle," often depict protagonists navigating opaque and bewildering systems. This mirrors the reality leaders face in today's volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world. Effective leaders, much like Kafka’s characters, must learn to operate within uncertainty, making decisions with incomplete information and adapting swiftly to changing circumstances. Embracing ambiguity rather than fearing it can lead to innovative solutions and resilient strategies.
Empathy
Kafka's "The Metamorphosis" tells the story of Gregor Samsa, who transforms into a giant insect, and the resulting alienation from his family. This narrative underscores the necessity of empathy in leadership. Understanding the struggles and perspectives of others, even when they seem incomprehensible or distant, is crucial. Empathic leaders can build stronger, more cohesive teams and foster a culture of trust and collaboration.
Bureaucracy and complicated webs of processes
Kafka’s works often critique the dehumanizing effects of bureaucracy. In "The Trial," Joseph K. finds himself entangled in a nightmarish legal system. For leaders, Kafka’s portrayal serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of overcomplicated processes/red tape. Simplifying procedures, empowering systems , focus on human-centered approaches that prioritize the well-being and efficiency rather than a web of proud complex processes might serve an organization and its people better.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Kafka’s characters frequently confront insurmountable challenges, yet they persist. This resilience, despite the apparent futility, is a critical trait for leaders. In a rapidly changing world, setbacks and failures are inevitable. Resilience can inspire their teams to persevere, fostering a culture that views challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
Authenticity and Self-Reflection
Kafka’s introspective style encourages self-reflection and authenticity. Authentic leadership, grounded in self-awareness and genuine interactions, builds credibility and trust. By regularly reflecting on their actions, values, and the impact they have on others, leaders can make more ethical and effective decisions.
Franz Kafka’s literature, with its intricate exploration of the human psyche and societal structures, offers interesting insights for leadership. By embracing ambiguity, practicing empathy, simplifying bureaucracy, demonstrating resilience, and fostering authenticity, leaders can navigate the complexities of the modern world with greater efficacy and humanity.
Kafka’s works remind the world that even in the most bewildering and challenging circumstances, there is much room for growth, understanding, and meaningful action.
For building depth and sensitivity , I would recommend some of Kafka's classics to leaders and executives of today. The 3rd of July happens to be Franz Kafka’s birthday. Franz Kafka, a luminary of 20th-century literature, is renowned for his distinctive exploration of existential anxiety, bureaucratic absurdity, and the human condition. I felt inspired to write about some of his work today – more specifically addressing leaders and their ideas of leadership. Sharing one of my paintings inspired by the strange melancholy I have felt while reading Kafka's work.
I first read Metamorphosis when I was an adolescent , it felt very weird to me , kind of depressing . I even dreamt of Gregor Samsa and woke up in the middle of the night. In time I grew up to understand and appreciate Kafka and his ideas of the human condition – the various perspectives he made us see. I work with executives and find very interesting patterns emerging from biases , alienation , bewilderment , abandonment , complexes etc. and it makes me think of Kafka's work and some ideas it may have for modern Leadership. While Kafka's works might seem far removed from the world of leadership, a closer examination reveals profound insights that can inform and enhance modern leadership practices.
Ambiguity and Uncertainty
Kafka's narratives, such as "The Trial" and "The Castle," often depict protagonists navigating opaque and bewildering systems. This mirrors the reality leaders face in today's volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world. Effective leaders, much like Kafka’s characters, must learn to operate within uncertainty, making decisions with incomplete information and adapting swiftly to changing circumstances. Embracing ambiguity rather than fearing it can lead to innovative solutions and resilient strategies.
Empathy
Kafka's "The Metamorphosis" tells the story of Gregor Samsa, who transforms into a giant insect, and the resulting alienation from his family. This narrative underscores the necessity of empathy in leadership. Understanding the struggles and perspectives of others, even when they seem incomprehensible or distant, is crucial. Empathic leaders can build stronger, more cohesive teams and foster a culture of trust and collaboration.
Bureaucracy and complicated webs of processes
Kafka’s works often critique the dehumanizing effects of bureaucracy. In "The Trial," Joseph K. finds himself entangled in a nightmarish legal system. For leaders, Kafka’s portrayal serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of overcomplicated processes/red tape. Simplifying procedures, empowering systems , focus on human-centered approaches that prioritize the well-being and efficiency rather than a web of proud complex processes might serve an organization and its people better.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Kafka’s characters frequently confront insurmountable challenges, yet they persist. This resilience, despite the apparent futility, is a critical trait for leaders. In a rapidly changing world, setbacks and failures are inevitable. Resilience can inspire their teams to persevere, fostering a culture that views challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
Authenticity and Self-Reflection
Kafka’s introspective style encourages self-reflection and authenticity. Authentic leadership, grounded in self-awareness and genuine interactions, builds credibility and trust. By regularly reflecting on their actions, values, and the impact they have on others, leaders can make more ethical and effective decisions.
Franz Kafka’s literature, with its intricate exploration of the human psyche and societal structures, offers interesting insights for leadership. By embracing ambiguity, practicing empathy, simplifying bureaucracy, demonstrating resilience, and fostering authenticity, leaders can navigate the complexities of the modern world with greater efficacy and humanity.
Kafka’s works remind the world that even in the most bewildering and challenging circumstances, there is much room for growth, understanding, and meaningful action.
For building depth and sensitivity , I would recommend some of Kafka's classics to leaders and executives of today.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/franz-kafkas-literature-interestingly-informs-modern-kamplikar-eanwf

09/06/2024

ON ENMITY AND "THEM"

“You have no enemies, you say? Alas, my friend, the boast is poor. He who has mingled in the fray of duty that the brave endure, must have made foes. If you have none, small is the work that you have done. You’ve hit no traitor on the hip. You’ve dashed no cup from perjured lip. You’ve never turned the wrong to right. You’ve been a coward in the fight.” Charles Mackay

We have often struggled with questions of how the world perceives us , the famous “what will people say”. In fact “shaming publicly” and “sending them on a guilt trip” are the two common seemingly powerful ways in which punishments work as far as the human species is concerned.
Don’t make enemies they warn – worry about the handwringing , the anxiety , the fear , the gossip , the x , the y and the zee. In the landscape of human relationships, enmity occupies a complex and often uncomfortable position. Conventionally perceived as a negative force, having enemies is something most people strive to avoid. However, from a philosophical perspective, the presence of enemies can offer profound insights into our own nature, values, and the broader human condition. There is paradoxical value of having enemies, they are not merely obstacles but also critical elements in the journey towards self-knowledge, moral growth, and societal advancement.

The Dialectics of Opposition
Hegelian dialectics posits that progress arises from the conflict between opposing forces. This process, known as thesis-antithesis-synthesis, suggests that encountering opposition is essential for development. Enemies, in this framework, represent the antithesis to our thesis. They challenge our beliefs, provoke critical reflection, and compel us to refine our positions. Without enemies, we risk stagnation, as there would be no force to disrupt our complacency or prompt us to question our assumptions.

Self-Definition and Identity
Enemies play a crucial role in the formation of identity. French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre argued that the "Other" is essential for self-definition. Through the eyes of our enemies, we gain a perspective on ourselves that is often obscured by our subjective biases. Enemies highlight our vulnerabilities, expose our contradictions, and force us to confront aspects of ourselves that we might prefer to ignore. This adversarial relationship can lead to a deeper understanding of who we are and what we stand for.

Developing courage and resilience
The presence of enemies necessitates moral and ethical consideration. Friedrich Nietzsche famously stated, "What does not kill me makes me stronger." This adage applies to moral fortitude as well. Facing enemies requires us to articulate and defend our values, thereby strengthening our ethical framework. It is through the trials imposed by enemies that we cultivate virtues such as courage, resilience, and integrity. Furthermore, the existence of enmity invites us to consider interesting dimensions of conflict, encouraging empathy and the pursuit of justice.

Societal Progress and Innovation
Historically, societal progress has often been driven by the clash of conflicting interests. Enemies, by challenging the status quo, act as catalysts for change. The competition and conflict they introduce can lead to innovation and improvement, as individuals and groups strive to overcome obstacles and outdo their adversaries. This dynamic is evident in various domains, from politics to science to art. In each case, the presence of a rival or opposing force stimulates creativity and drives progress.

Enemies as Mirrors
Enemies serve as mirrors, reflecting the darker aspects of our own nature. Carl Jung's concept of the "shadow" suggests that individuals project their own undesirable traits onto others. Enemies, therefore, can reveal what we deny about ourselves. By recognizing and integrating these shadow aspects, we achieve psychological wholeness. The enemy becomes a tool for self-discovery and personal growth, highlighting the interconnectedness of human experience.

The idea that enemies are essential to personal and societal development is a counterintuitive but profound one. Enmity can be destructive too, but it offers opportunities for growth, self-awareness, and progress. By challenging our beliefs we strengthen our character, we drive the new and fresh.
Enemies fulfil a paradoxical but indispensable role in the human experience. Embracing this perspective allows us to see the adversary not just as obstacles to be overcome, but as a necessary agent of transformation and evolution.
If we philosophically explore enmity, we only uncover a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit.

Alongwith - Victory on my Enemies - A portion of a painting by Mboko Lagriffe

03/06/2024

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/breaking-prisons-our-own-making-choosing-live-dr-mukta-kamplikar-iggzc

03/06/2024

Breaking Prisons of Our Own Making - Choosing to live authentically

Saw this hilarious reel last night, and felt inspired to write about prisons, rather philosophically.

Human existence is a complex tapestry woven with freedom and constraint, aspiration and limitation, joy and suffering. Among the most profound constraints are the prisons we craft for ourselves, often without conscious awareness. These self-imposed prisons, made up of our thoughts, beliefs, habits, and fears, can be as limiting as any physical cell. Understanding and transcending these internal barriers is a crucial philosophical endeavor that speaks to the core of what it means to be human.

The Nature of Self-Imposed Prisons
Self-imposed prisons are the mental and emotional confines that restrict our potential and freedom. Unlike physical prisons, which are externally imposed, these are constructed from within. They are built from a variety of materials: fear of failure, societal expectations, rigid beliefs, and past traumas. Each element contributes to the walls that limit our personal growth and happiness.

Fear and Anxiety: Fear, whether of failure, rejection, or the unknown, can be a powerful jailer. It paralyzes action and stifles creativity, leading us to avoid risks and settle for mediocrity. This avoidance becomes a cell where potential remains untapped and dreams unfulfilled.

Societal Expectations and Pressure : From a young age, we are bombarded with messages about how we should live our lives. Cultural norms, familial expectations, and peer pressure shape our choices. When we internalize these expectations uncritically, we may find ourselves living lives that are not truly our own, trapped by the desire to conform.

Rigid Beliefs and conditioning : Our beliefs about the world and ourselves can become prisons when they are inflexible. These beliefs might include notions about our capabilities, our worth, or the nature of happiness. When we cling to these beliefs without allowing for growth or change, they limit our ability to adapt and evolve.

Past Traumas and not choosing to deal with them: Traumatic experiences can leave deep scars that shape our self-perception and worldview. If unaddressed, these wounds can lead to a life governed by avoidance and self-protection, rather than exploration and openness.

The Philosophical Roots of Self-Imprisonment
Philosophers throughout history have examined the nature of freedom and self-imprisonment. Existentialists like Jean-Paul Sartre emphasized the concept of "bad faith," where individuals deceive themselves to avoid the discomfort of true freedom. According to Sartre, we often hide behind societal roles and labels to escape the burden of creating our own essence and meaning in life.

Buddhist philosophy also offers profound insights into self-imposed prisons, particularly through the concept of attachment. Buddhism teaches that clinging to desires, aversions, and fixed identities leads to suffering (dukkha). By recognizing and letting go of these attachments, one can achieve liberation (nirvana).

Breaking Free: Pathways to Liberation
Liberation from these self-imposed prisons requires both awareness and action. Here are some philosophical approaches to breaking free:

Self-Reflection: The first step towards freedom is recognizing the prison. Through practices like mindfulness and meditation, we can develop greater awareness of our thoughts and emotions. Reflecting on our fears, beliefs, and motivations helps us understand the constraints we have placed on ourselves.

Embracing Uncertainty: Life is inherently uncertain, and embracing this uncertainty is key to liberation. By accepting the possibility of failure and the unknown, we can move beyond the paralyzing effects of fear and anxiety. Philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard, who explored the concept of "the leap of faith," advocate for embracing the uncertainties of existence as a path to authentic living.

Challenging Beliefs: Questioning and re-evaluating our beliefs is essential for growth. This process, known as critical thinking, involves examining the evidence for our beliefs and being open to new perspectives. Engaging in dialogue with others and exposing ourselves to diverse viewpoints can help us break down the walls of rigid beliefs.

Healing Past Wounds: Addressing past traumas through therapy, self-compassion, and supportive relationships is crucial for moving beyond self-imposed limitations. Healing allows us to let go of protective mechanisms that no longer serve us and opens up new possibilities for living fully.

Cultivating Authenticity: Living authentically means aligning our actions with our true values and desires, rather than external expectations. This involves courageously pursuing what genuinely matters to us, even if it deviates from societal norms. Philosophers like Friedrich Nietzsche championed the idea of creating one's own values and living authentically as a means to overcome self-imprisonment.

The prisons of our own making are subtle yet pervasive barriers that hinder our potential and freedom. By drawing on philosophical insights and practices, we can begin to dismantle these self-imposed constraints. Through self-reflection, embracing uncertainty, challenging beliefs, healing past wounds, and cultivating authenticity, we can liberate ourselves from the mental and emotional confines that limit our lives. Ultimately, the journey to freedom is a deeply personal and ongoing process, one that requires courage, compassion, and a commitment to living authentically.
So What are your self imposed/chosen prisons? How are they serving /treating you? What are you killing in yourself vis a vis what you are capable of? When/How will you break free ? Or will you at all?

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6S9AL1ypeP/?igsh=MWRqaWhib3V0aW8wYQ==

28/04/2024

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/lights-camera-leadership-unconventional-fun-dr-mukta-kamplikar-st7gf
Lights, Camera, Leadership - Unconventional is the new norm !
In this article, I share that the untapped potential of films can be a very effective tool for developing leadership . Traditional methods like lectures and case studies are valuable, but the narrative power of cinema offers a unique and engaging approach to leadership development. Drawing examples from iconic movies like "The Lord of the Rings" and "Dead Poets Society," we could delve into how films mirror the hero's journey, showcase diverse leadership styles, and foster empathy and emotional intelligence. By analyzing, emoting and reflecting on the characters' decisions and ethical dilemmas on screen, leaders can glean valuable insights and hone their own leadership in a way that is both memorable and impactful. So, whether it's studying the visionary leadership of Steve Jobs or grappling with moral complexity in "Schindler's List," the silver screen offers a rich tapestry of lessons for aspiring and seasoned leaders alike.

19/04/2024

"How was your Day sweetheart" followed by empathic listening - Exploring the idea of a sensitive bot.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-your-day-sweetheart-bridging-emotional-gap-bots-kamplikar-tkttf

08/04/2024

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/seemingly-unlikely-duo-creativity-leadership-dr-mukta-kamplikar-shw4f

20/03/2024

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