#Daniel Pink insights

[ingravinoveritas]

Just saw a clip of the Staged bloopers and cut scenes and it made me wonder if you'd ever written a post about David saying "you're the Debbie McGee to my Paul Daniels". Non UK people might know that Paul Daniels was a stage magician who was very popular in the 80s and might even know that Debbie McGee was his assistant but they might not know that they were married for 28 years until Paul Daniels died in 2016. David is calling Michael his wife, or at the very least his glamorous assistant 😳🤣

No need to post if you've already written about it, I went quite a way back through your blog to try and check but, well, you've written a lot about Staged 🤣

Hi there! Oh gosh, I have not actually written a post about David saying that, mainly because being a non-UK person, I did not actually know who Paul Daniels or Debbie McGee are, or that they were married (I think the other part of the reason I don't know them is that they were both a bit before my time). So thank you so much for this delicious tidbit/insight! Let's get a visual up here as we start to talk about it:

The first thing I will say is that I have seen the Staged outtakes, and what makes me love this moment so much is that this was very definitely not part of the script, but rather something David said himself, without prompting. He says it so earnestly as well, as if this particular reference is one that is specifically for them but also one that he does not mind other people hearing. David had to know that this could have made it to the final cut, so the fact that he said it despite that fact seems to speak volumes.

Again, could this just be David joking and calling Michael his sidekick/assistant? Absolutely. But it's incredibly hard not to see the deeper meaning potentially at play, especially when we consider that David has called Michael his wife on at least two other occasions. The second instance in particular is still so remarkable to me, because it wasn't in a promotional or media context, but to a private audience. It's further bolstered by Rob Wilkins referring to Michael and David as "the loveliest couple," which again is a specific choice of words. So it does make one wonder if David and Michael have quietly been calling themselves that for some time, at least to their personal circles (a long time, even, given that Staged 2 aired at the beginning of 2021).

Regardless of whether David's comment was meant as a joke or as a sly allusion to the nature of his and Michael's relationship, what I love most about this (and what I think we could all agree on) is that David is saying that Michael is the person he makes magic with. Magic we saw in Good Omens, and then subsequently in a few seasons of Staged, and again in GO season 2. And with any luck, magic we will get to see Michael and David make together for a long, long time to come.

Also, for those who have never seen what Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee look like (as I hadn't), I need to share this picture:

...And also say that I really would love to see Michael in that outfit and headpiece on the left. His hair is as curly as Debbie's, so we can definitely see how lovely that headpiece would look on such a head of hair. Not to mention the pink sparkly I Dream of Jeannie-esque outfit and coordinating eye shadow, which Michael would absolutely slay in. I will never know peace until we see a picture of him in that outfit, and I think he would love to wear it, especially given how much we know Michael loves drag. Couples Halloween costume this year with David? We can only hope...

Again, thank you for sharing this most excellent information, which I hope my followers will also very much enjoy. Thanks for writing in! x

#turquoisedata #reply post #david tennant #soft scottish hipster gigolo #michael sheen #welsh seduction machine #staged #or 'Brokeback Mount Him' which is what i am referring to Staged as from here on out #oh david #i love that he just drops these little references out there #saying a lot by saying very little #at this point the subtext might as well be a billboard #tell me again that they're not a couple #a friendship that's become something more #they are perfect together your honor #also god do I miss Michael's beard and wild curls #sexy as hell #ineffable lovers #discourse #gif by me

[lilyrizzy]

in that iron gate made me so emotional it was such a roller coaster of a ride and i loved every second of reading this fic. one thing i really wanted to ask if you could provide like a directors cut or more insight on what happened is when max and daniel have sex and max asks daniel to say something nice.. just what was max truly feeling or thinking at this time? has he been doubting his relationship with daniel this whole trip?

anon this is a lovely ask! i've never done a 'directors cut' so you'll have to be patient with me and appologies in advance that this is too long, i just couldnt figure out what to cut and still have it make sense? (also i was enjoying myself lol)

also i talked about both max and daniel’s feelings in this to make it make sense, but i hope it answers your questions. if not, feel free to send me another ask or dm, this was so fun for me to get to waffle on about the fic i’m most proud of!<3

“I just want you,” Max says, desperate and it sends a jolt of arousal straight through Daniel. <okay so this is max both being honest on the surface, but also like, honest in a deeper way too. he just wants daniel, because thats always been what he wants, but also he wants to make daniel happy & now he's struggling to do that bc daniel is going through something that max can't really help him with> He wants to palm himself through his shorts, wants to push Max to his knees and feed him his cock, wants to fuck him so hard he feels Daniel for days. But-

“You’re gonna’ have to choose then baby.” <daniel here still isn't sure what he's allowed to have, feeling very out of control of his emotions as he does. like he wants max to chose so he can be sure max *wants* this, you know?>

“Choose?” Max sounds a little confused.

Daniel never makes him choose, the point of this is normally to stop Max from thinking. <this was to tell the reader that they have had sex with this dynamic before, but it's usually because it's what max wants because he craves the shame/humiliation and then daniel making him feel loved after. and daniel has learnt to do that for him in a safe way, but this is the first time daniel is initiating sex like this, where he's a 'mean' to max>

“Choose where you want me.” Max stays silent except for his ragged breathing. <max wants to chose the right thing, the thing he thinks will give daniel the most pleasure, make him feel the best but hes also out of his depth a little here because usually when hes in this headspace, daniel is in charge more> Daniel watches the rise and fall of his chest, this proof he’s here, alive. <because rn, with his dad dead, this is so important to daniel> “On your face? On your tits? Inside?”

Max’s eyes fly open. “That- Inside,” he pleads, “Please, Daniel. I- I can be good.” <max is both pleading for the sex here, but also pleading for like, 'let me be good, let me make *you* feel good>

Daniel hums like he’s not convinced. He’s desperate to see Max try hard to please him, so Max will know afterwards that Daniel means it when he tells him how good he was. He wants to hear Max say, ‘thank you,’ for letting Max prove himself. <and this is like coming back to the point of like. Daniel knows that this kinda sex is sex that max *needs* from time to time, and he wants to give that to him so badly. because to daniel that will be proof that he can still offer max something. when recently, hes been feeling like he has nothing to give bc he's been going through it himself, snapping at max, not being a good partner in his grief. max has a more simplistic view of like, daniel likes when we do this, i can give this to him, it will make him feel strong again>

“Get on the bed,” he says, because he can’t explain this without sounding like a possessive freak. 

Max goes like his strings have been cut, folding himself down so he’s lying on his back, all soft pink skin spread against crisp white sheets. <and this is max's relief because he was worried daniel wouldnt want this, which ofc would be fine, but this way max knows he can make daniel feel good. and also, obvs its max's desire>

“No,” Daniel says, “Facedown.”

A little frown appears on Max’s forehead, but he goes, rolls over onto his stomach. <max here is like, a little surprised bascially bc i always headcannon that daniel likes to have face to face sex more. likes to kiss max, etc so max is a little surprise he doesnt wanna do that. daniel on the other hand is like, im gonna make this sex very intense and more of the things max likes so i can prove to myself that i still got it> Daniel looks then for a moment, the hard muscles of his back, his thighs, and how they meet in the middle at the soft curve of his arse. His cheek pressed against the pillow where he’s still trying to face Daniel, to see him <max wants to see daniel, to know that he's okay>. The stubble there that’s been growing steadily for the last few days, because he forgot his razor and for some reason won’t ask Daniel to borrow his, like he’d afraid that asking Daniel for anything will tip him over the edge <nope daniel, max has just been too busy worrying about you to remember to shave>.

“Daniel?” Max asks. <checking in. wants daniel to know that its okay if he changed his mind, that hes too sad to do this>

Daniel ignores him. <and daniel finds that hard, bc normally he's the one checking in, max is the one needing more like, tender love. daniel doesnt want the reminder that he's fragile> Instead, he steps into the ensuite and rummages in his toiletries bag until he finds their lube. He doesn’t know if Max packed it expecting this, or if it was just there still from their time in Miami. He hopes it’s the first option, that Max knew he’d be strong enough to do this and give them what they both need.

He can still do this. He’s still the same person he was 5 days ago. Before.

“Be still,” he says when he’s kneeling on the bed between Max’s spread legs, that he parted so easily for Daniel with just a tap on his calf, “Be good, be still and I’ll give you my fingers.”

“Okay,” is all Max says, voice cracking.

He dribbles some lube onto the tips of his fingers. It’s cold like he’d hoped it would be. Using the tip of his index, he presses gently onto the back of Max’s neck. Max jerks a little underneath him, not expecting Daniel to start there.

“Max,” he warns, and when he’s sure he won’t move again, he starts to trail his finger slowly down the curve of his spine.

He knows he’s giving Max an almost impossible task. His back is too ticklish, he hates being touched lightly there. He’s being mean and it feels good to feel like, finally, this way he’s allowed to be because Max might like it <and max *does* like it. he likes being given this task, daniel asking him 'do this for me' because max and do it and be sure that he helped, he did something to make daniel happy when hes been so unhappy>.

Max whimpers underneath him when instead of dipping into Max’s crack, he trails the finger back up. Daniel can feel his muscles vibrating underneath him, see’s Max’s arms that his head is pillowed in start to shake, and it’s good to feel him alive under Daniel’s hands <again, daniels new fear of mortality creeping in>.

“How bad do you want it?” Daniel asks.

“I-“ Max licks his lips, swallows, “A lot.” <So when max says "I-" here, he's going to say something like, 'i only want it if you do,' but then rethinks. because he knows daniel wont want to be babied right now. they know each other pretty well, and max wants to give him this like, feeling of being sexy and in control. he trusts that daniel will stop/max will be able to tell if daniel doesnt *really* want it. 'a lot' is bc its the truth, but also he wants to make daniel feel desired.>

“Yeah,” Daniel laughs, “I can believe that just by looking at you. You better not come until I get my dick inside you. If you make a mess, I won’t be happy.”

Max shakes his head, desperate. “I won’t Daniel. I can- I can be good for you, I promise.” <just generally more of max wanting to be good for daniel to make him feel better, daniel wanting to be good for max, to put him under to also feel better lol. its the theme, sorry if this is repetitive>

Daniel trails his finger down to Max’s hole and just taps against his rim. The last time he touched Max here was in Monaco on Tuesday night. It’s nowhere near the longest they’ve gone without it, 3 days, but it feels like a lifetime. He can tell just from looking that Max is going to be tight, none of the tell-tale redness he usually finds because Daniel is a freak that can’t keep his hands off Max, because Max always wants it too, even when it makes him hurt. <sorry just some insane hc’s about how in my head they have sex constantly lol and they both like, get off so much on like, daniel just coming up behind max in the kitchen to pull his sweats down and fuck him, max barely needing any prep bc they fuck so much>

“You look pretty,” Daniel says, “But you’ll look prettier after, when I’m finished with you,” He says, because it’s true and because he wants to hear Max groan, to feel his hips rabbit against the mattress below him.

He pushes a finger inside, and he’s right, Max is tight. He tells him that too and Max makes another noise, does another thrust into the sheets. He screws his fingers in slowly, relishing every noise he draws from Max’s mouth, every response of his body. He’s pushing a fourth against his rim when Max starts begging.

“Please Daniel- I can’t- Let me- Let me be good, I’ll come, I’ll-” <here max is like, daniel asked me not to come, i want to make him happy, therefore i need to do this. same as before, he wants to be good to daniel, and to achieve that he has to let daniel be in control, so daniel also has to *let* him be good. lil feedback loop here lol>

Daniel pulls his fingers out, watches Max’s hole twitch around nothing, feeling a little mesmerized. Then, he leans over, brings his fingers to Max’s mouth. He presses the tips of them against Max’s lips.

“I’m sticky,” he says, “If you clean me up, I’ll fuck you.”

Max looks up him then, a little crease between his eyebrows. His eyes are wide. For a moment Daniel wonders if he’s pushed it too far, if Max is not going to open his mouth, but then he does, and he’s letting Daniel press his sticky fingers onto Max’s clean tongue. Let’s Daniel watch as he hollows his cheeks around them, sucking them clean too.  Daniel’s dry thumb cradles his jaw, and he can feel the scorching heat radiating from Max’s face like this. He knows how much he is asking of Max, making him suck on his fingers that have just been inside him. < This is like idk the maxiel thesis to me of like, daniel wanting ‘insane’ things and wanting to push (within reason ofc) and max being like so eager to go along with this bc to max, being good for daniel is whats hot. but also, daniel wants to do something new specifically in this moment because he wants to like, effect max even more than usual? like make him feel that good shame a little more, so daniel can know he did a good jobTM of fucking max >

What that fuck are you doing, something in his head yells. But this is the best he’s felt in three days so it’s easier than it should be, to ignore it, to keep pushing. To see what Max will let him do without Daniel having to even ask for permission. <maybe its not healthy here but this is daniel also wanting to feel trusted, because hes been kinda a dick to max up until this point. he wants to prove to himself (in an insane way granted) that max is still here for him, ride or die>

“Good,” Daniel says when Max is finished.

He’s left with Max looking up at him, eyes so wide and blue it makes Daniel’s heart ache to look at him. He wants then to tell Max that he’s beautiful, that Daniel is so fucking lucky he gets to have him like this, but if he does then he knows the charge in the air between them will disappear, and he’ll end up fucking Max slow and sappy the way he knows Max loves too, but not in the same way they both crave this. < again, sorry repeating myself but like. daniel wants tenderness deep down. but he wants to give max what he thinks max wants/needs more, so daniel can feel good about himself and his ability to be a partner again. prove to them both he can still ‘be the man’. yes. its toxic. but its what he feels.>

Still, he can’t quite resist asking Max to roll over. He still wants to see his face, to watch the corners of his eyes get wet as he bites his lip and tries to be good for Daniel. <he needs to see max rn because like. hes emotionally vunerable and wants to put max under, and fuck him till he cries but like, also wants to get to see his face bc theyre in love and hes craving that closeness he doesnt know how to ask for>

“I think you should get me ready too now,” he says, and watches with his heart in his throat as Max snaps to action, pushing himself off the bed, flipping over and reaching for Daniel.

He makes quick work of Daniel’s t-shirt and his sweatpants until Daniel is stood in front of him in just his boxers, Max kneeling on the bed. Then Max ducks down, presses his face to the damp front of Daniel’s underwear where he is straining against the cotton. <this was something for both of them. max loves breathing daniel in, being completely surrounded by daniel and he feels that best when he can smell daniels sweaty crotch, okay? xD overwhelmed by all sensations. but for daniel, max wants it to also come across as like, an act of devotion?>  He stays like that for a few moments, just breathing Daniel in, before opening his mouth around the head and sucking it into his mouth, fabric and all.

Daniel runs a hand through his hair. If Max tried, he’s sure he could make Daniel come, sticky and wet in his underwear, and then if Daniel said that was enough, Max would let it be. Would roll onto his back and will his own hard on away and go to sleep happy without Daniel having touched him, just because he’d know he’d been good for him. <so this is daniel acknowledging the power he has in this moment, because ultimatley he knows when max is in this headspace, max wants to please more than he wants to be pleased>

That’s not what Daniel wants though. Daniel wants to make Max feel good.

He’s the one to push his boxers down, to hold Max back where he goes, open mouthed, trying to take Daniel into his mouth again.

“No,” Daniel says simply when Max looks up at him, confused, lips still making a little o shape. Daniel drags his thumb over Max’s plush bottom lip and says, “I think I need to fuck you now. It’s what you want, right?” <this was me trying to make it obvious that like, max wants this, even if things have been a little ~rough~ until this point, but still make it sexy. This was daniel also looking for that reassurance and consent while trying to be sexy lol.>

Max nods frantically, motion slipping Daniel’s thumb into his mouth to hook over the bottom, perfect line of his teeth. <max genuinley wants it so bad here. its shifted a little. max always wanted the sex, but at the begining the motivation was to make daniel feel good but now the scales have tipped and max wants them both to feel good.>

“On your back then,” Daniel says, and watches as Max scrambles to get there for him. The easy spread of his legs so Daniel can crawl between them makes him want to kiss his way up Max’s body, to start at his toes and end at his tits.<Daniel want to worship max too, to show him that devotion in return. but he’s denying himself that sweetness because he thinks this fraught, ‘mean’ sex will give more to max>

Instead, he just fits himself in the wide space Max has made for him, swiping his fingers behind Max’s balls to find his hole. Lines himself up and pushes inside, sweet and easy.

Max whimpers when he’s all the way inside, eyes screwed shut tight and then suddenly open again, looking at Daniel like there’s something to see there.

“Daniel,” he whines, the way girls used to say “oh god,” when Daniel would fuck them. <lol this was a joke with myself where i was trying to say that max see’s daniel as a sex god:P>

He doesn’t want to hear it suddenly, to think about anything else except the ways he can get Max silent and shaking if he just tries hard enough. <daniel doesnt want the devotion. bc he doesnt feel worthy of it.>

He crushes their mouth together on his next thrust to stop anything else spilling from Max’s, to stop anything from starting to spill from his own. Max tightens around him and Daniel grunts, and then he’s bringing his arms around Daniel, fingertips stroking over his back, gentle like- like he thinks that this is what Daniel needs, to be babied, for Max to be sweet and hold him. <again so. in my head, max maybe doesnt usually do this when they have this kinda sex. so hes trying bc he wants daniel to have something sweet and loving too, but daniel is like, no. i want to make this what you like, this is for you max, not me>

Pulling back, breaking their kiss so he no longer covering Max’s body, he breaks the circle of Max’s arms around him, and takes both his wrists into Daniel’s one hand. The delicate bones push together hard so he can manage it, but Max doesn’t flinch just throws his head back and cries out as Daniel holds them against the headboard, dick dribbling a little more onto himself <max is into this. the wrist grabbing, it’s hot. like he likes daniel being rougher with him, like he says later in the fic, he likes that he can really feel daniel bc of it>.

Daniel angles his body so every thrust gets Max right where it feels good, the best, and then he’s giving up thrusting all together and is instead just rubbing that spot with the head of his cock, over and over, relishing in the way it makes Max’s stomach and cock jump between them and Max’s eyes open again to look at Daniel, startled. <Daniel needs max to come first, again like, playing this game of proving he can still be good to him with himself>

“Daniel,” he says in the same tone again, “you are going to-“ but he breaks off with a pitiful whimper when Daniel reaches down with his free hand to cup Max’s tit. <Max here is trying to warn daniel bc as established 1000 times, he wants to be good for daniel>

“That’s right, Maxy,” he says, pressing his fingertips harder into Max’s wrist, chasing the feeling of his pulse, rapid and strong, “I’m going to make you come, aren’t I?”

And then Max does.

Daniel starts fucking him again for real during, has to fight the urge to let his eyes roll back in his head at the sensation of Max’s hole fluttering around him. Even when he’s finished coming, Max holds himself tight for Daniel, and it’s that, the knowledge that Max is still trying so hard to be good for him even after, that has Daniel tipping over the edge.

“Fuck, Max,” he bites out, pressing against Max’s wrists, somewhere to rest his weight as Daniel comes.

Then it’s over. <then this starts the quick come down for daniel. like reality is flooding back into him in one shocking moment>

Then he has to let go, has to pull out, gentle and slow, before he does something embarrassing like lie completely on top of Max and start crying into his neck. It’s just the comedown, he tells himself, the rush of endorphins Michael is always trying to convince him he can get from running too. <this meant to be the same as like that moment, before waking, when you forget everything fell apart the night before and then you have to remember. like daniel got lost in max and making him feel good, so maxs plan succeeded! but now he has to face it all again. and he still thinks he’s not allowed the tenderness max has been trying to give him, bc it makes him ‘weak’.>

He rolls onto his back, next to Max so their shoulders are brushing. He needs to move soon, to get a washcloth to clean them both up, to get them both under the covers. For now, he lies there, the room silence except for the noise of his own heavy breathing, Max’s quieter puffs of air. <it’s almost like daniel is in shock again here, bc other than sleep, this is the first real escape hes had from his horrible reality and now he has to come back to it. so hes just taking a moment to like, deal with that. but meanwhile, max is lying there expecting what he normally gets after this kinda sex. daniel to hold him, to tell him he was good and special and that daniel loves him. but minutes are ticking by and max isnt getting that and suddenly max feels all wrong.>

“Daniel,” Max says into the silence eventually, and his voice sounds a little small. Wrong. <Daniel isnt a dick okay, hes just dealing with his own feelings rn, that hes kinda forgot that hes being shitty with the ‘aftercare’ or whatever youd like to call it. hes very flawed in this fic, and then maxs voice here is his first clue that he fucked up>

Daniel is immediately pushing up on one elbow to look down at him, to look at his face, but he’s got his arm slung over it. He’s hiding. <Daniel is immediatley wanting to fix whatever is wrong. max is frightened that like he did something wrong or the sex made daniel feel worse. like he has no logical reason to think that, but the lack of ‘nice’ stuff being said is making him spiral so hes vunerable here. wants to hide>

“Max, I- Are you okay?” He reaches out and strokes tentative fingers down Max’s side. Max shudders but Daniel sees his shoulders relax ever so slightly at the gentle contact. <and immediatley like, daniel touching him softly starts to reassure max. he doesnt want to make this all about him when daniel is going through so much, so hes working hard to listen to daniels touch and words. daniel is touching him nicely, okay, things cant be that bad so he can start to relax>

“Can you-“ Max starts, voice muffled, “Can you say something nice.” <but he still needs that final thing. max needs to know he did good for daniel, but also he needs to know he was good like, for himself? because max has a big praise kink so the idea of not being good, like, really hurts him>

Daniel feels like someone has thrown a bucket of cold water over the bed.

“Baby-“ He forces the panic out of his voice, “Maxy, I- Come here.”

Max pulls his arm away from his face and Daniel can see his eyes are wet at the corners. Usually- usually that means Daniel did good, gave Max what he needed but now. Now he doesn’t know. <Max needs to look at daniels face first, that final thing before he can give himself over and let himself be like, okay, everything is okay. i didnt make daniel worse.>

“Baby, come here, please?” He says again and to his relief, Max scoots across the bed and into Daniel’s arms. He lets Daniel pull him so he’s pretty much lying on top of Daniel, wet face pressed into the crook of Daniel’s neck. Daniel rubs a hand up and down his back.

“Baby, you were so good for me, yeah? My good boy, you gave me just what I needed.” He feels Max nod against him and he presses a kiss onto the top of Max’s head. Keeps his mouth there and murmurs into his hair, “Thank you, Maxy. I’m so lucky to have you.” <and of course, daniel loves max so he’s going heavy with the nice stuff! he feels it, he thinks it, he just forgot to say it bc hes not perfect rn. how can he be?>

“I love you,” Max whispers like it’s a secret.

“I love you too,” Daniel says quickly but he doesn’t know if it’s enough right now.

#thank you anon #this was super fun but im sorry if its total shit #in that iron ground #fic #ask me things

[bandedbulbussnarfblat]

Damn your Love, Damn Your Lies chp 8

here on ao3 or read it below

Daniel doesn’t know what it says about him that as soon as Rashid says “Kneel,” his knees hit the floor.  He just knows that he wants Rashid so much his mouth is watering.  

Rashid rakes a hand through his hair and Daniel wishes his hands were bare.  He yanks Daniel’s head back and looks down at him.  “Hands behind your back, wrists together.”

Daniel’s heart pounds and he swallows thickly.  He considers putting up a fight over it, but something in Rashid’s gaze makes him decide against it.  He puts his hands in place and looks up at Rasid.  Daniel’s breaths are already becoming ragged.  

Rashid rubs a thumb over his bottom lip.  “Good boy, Daniel.”

Daniel shivers.

“Stay there,” Rashid orders, then moves to Daniel’s still unpacked suitcase.  He never saw the point of putting things in dressers when you were just going to have to repack them.  Rashid pulls out a leather belt and Daniel’s heart skyrockets.  Is Rashid going to whip him?  Shit, he hasn’t done that in decades.  He doesn’t know if he can take it.

“I’m going to bind your hands.”  

It isn’t exactly asking permission, but Daniel gets the vibe this is the time to back out if he wants to.  “Yeah, okay.”

Rashid winds the belt around them and secures it in place, slipping a finger inside to test the give.  It’s snug, but not to the point of discomfort.  He comes back around to stand in front of Daniel.  Daniel nuzzles into his crotch.

Rashid snatches him back with a sharp grasp of hair.  Daniel gasps at the sudden thrill of pain.  “Did I give you permission to touch me?”

Shit, shit, shit.  “Sorry, boss.”

And where did that nickname come from?  It feels right, though.

“You’ll just have to make it up to me, won’t you, Daniel?”

/

By the time they finish, Daniel half believes Rashid is some kind of sex fiend.  What did they call those sex demons?  An incubus.  That’s what he was.  Because he sure feels like Rashid sucked his soul through his dick.

Daniel is laying in bed, still recovering while Rashid is helping himself to his toothbrush and brushing his teeth.  It’s kinda gross, but Daniel is too blissed out to mind. 

He comes out and pats Daniel on the cheek.  “Come, Mr. Molloy.”

Daniel settles for a swish of mouthwash, then follows Rashid into the hall.

“Would you follow me to the reading room?”

The reading room is absolutely gorgeous, of course.  Though most noticeable is the tree with the pink blossoms.  “Quite the house plant.”

“Well, the interior designer hired was a sentimentalist.  Some notion of hers he was missing the natural world.”

Rashid doesn’t sound like he buys into the idea.  Curious, that he should have that kind of insight into what the designer thought.  But that didn’t have to mean anything.  Rashid is Louis’ assistant, he’s bound to overhear or manage all sorts of things.  

It’s funny how he was convinced something was going on between Rashid and Louis and now he’s praying there isn’t. 

Rashid moves to unlatch a box on the desk.  “You are getting access to very precious items, from the archives, an alternative perspective on the years of your interest.”

He hands out a pair of gloves.  “Please, wear these when handling the materials.”

Daniel takes the gloves and slides them on.  Rashid moves back around the table.  “We suggest you begin on the left.”

Daniel catches Rashid by the arm and tugs him close.  He kisses him softly.  “Come visit me later?”

“I’ll think about it,” Rashid says, but he’s smiling so Daniel figures he’ll see him tonight.

Daniel watches Rashis stroll out, then starts on the right.

It’s a lot to get through, and Daniel has already spent part of the morning with Rashid.  Not that he considers it a waste of time, but he really should have been working.  Daniel reads and reads.  He may skim over a few parts, just to try to make up time.  

Eventually, he needs a break.  He’s been trying to read too fast and it’s giving him a headache.  As he comes back into focus of the world around him, he hears praying.  Rashid?  Daniel follows the sound out to the living room.  Rashid is kneeling and saying a prayer.

“I thought Louis was your god,” Daniel says, arms crossed over his chest.  They hadn’t really talked about that.  He’s been trying not to think about it.  

Rashid doesn’t say anything back, so Daniel continues.  “How does Muhammad feel about vampires?  Is it Ashura every day here in the penthouse?”

Rashid glances over at him.  There’s this curl falling over his forehead that makes him look adorable.  But he’s distant and polite when he speaks,  “Do you have what you need, Mr. Molloy?”

Well, shit.  Maybe teasing him was a bad idea.

“A cure for Parkinson’s?” Daniel says, mainly to buy time to think of something better to say.  He needs to turn things around.  

“How is your reading coming along?”  Still polite, but detached.  Daniel may have to actually apologize.

“For a killing machine, I kinda like her.”

Rashid smiles a little.  It’s a good sign.

“I interrupted.  You were praying.”  That’s basically an apology, right?

Rashid returns to his prayer.  “Asr namozi.”

Daniel repeats the phrase.  “What is that?  That’s not Arabic.  What is it, Kazak?  Somewhere in the Crimea?”

Rashid sucks on his lip, but says nothing.  

“You’re not from Dubai.  I thought you were a native.”  He had just assumed.  He really doesn’t know much about Rashid at all, does he?

“Dubai is a child, Mr. Molloy.  No one’s a native.”

Daniel bites the bullet and walks over to Rashid.  He hooks a finger in that ridiculously cut neckline and tugs him close.  “Sorry I teased you about Louis.  I’m a dick.”

“I suppose I can forgive you,” Rashid says.  

Daniel kisses him chastely on the mouth.  “I gotta get back to work  You still stopping by tonight?”

“I’m still thinking about it.”

Daniel kisses him again, just because he can, and heads back to the reading room.  He glances back to make sure Rashid hasn’t followed, then opens his notes on the help.  He types “What is his end game?”

It’s a good fucking question.

He doesn’t know what Rashid is playing at here.  He’s been too swept up–thinking with his dick–to really look at this thing.  What is Rashid getting out of it?  What is going on with him and Louis?

What is his end game?

#iwtv fic #daniel molloy #armand #armand/daniel

[finishinglinepress]

FLP CHAPBOOK OF THE DAY: We Are Mary Shelley’s Monster by Danielle Byington

ADVANCE ORDER: https://www.finishinglinepress.com/product/we-are-mary-shelleys-monster-by-danielle-byington/

We Are Mary Shelley’s Monster tunes in to #history and the present through poetry from the author’s perspective, as well as how and where those moments exist collectively for the rest of the world. Frequently, #mythology ushers the reader through this chapbook, either in the context of ancient gods and goddesses or modern figures and celebrities. This crafting of the past within the present through familiar names and events intends to highlight the damage done, but also remind us of how we might heal on humanity’s circular path.

Danielle Byington is an educator, author, and artist. Her poetry has been published by various outlets, and her first chapbook is The Absurdity of Origins (Dancing Girl Press, 2019). Byington’s visual art—a significant backdrop to her poetry—has been part of exhibits, public art installations, permanent collections, journals, and cover art. Her ardor for the intersection of language and visual arts manifested in 2020, as she created the educational business Sight into Insight, an ambition which has received a number of grants for research, creating literature-based videos, and a series of paintings. Byington enjoys life with her Shakespearean better half and three ridiculous cats.

PRAISE FOR We Are Mary Shelley’s Monster by Danielle Byington

Danielle Byington’s We Are Mary Shelley’s Monster troubles the divide between the ordinary and the sublime. These poems teeter on the edges of beauty and of horror, wrestling with preternatural muses/demons such as the bronze coil of a dead cottonmouth, “dreaming bad dreams with me / about humanity’s white mouth,” and the haunting image of Sylvia Plath’s strappy high heel shoes. Painterly and literary, Byington’s poems offer “the past stitched to the present” in a remarkable tapestry. Her poems detail “our connection to the red line of history, / and other time-sensitive things like newspapers and flowers.” These poems warn that our breath is dangerous, a possible poison contributing to the deterioration of artifacts and knowledge. Even so, We Are Mary Shelley’s Monster sings with marvel and hope in the face of ongoing threats and decay just “as autumn / referees all things to rust.”

–Emily Rosko, Poetry Editor at Crazyhorse/swamp pink

We Are Mary Shelley’s Monster is a book of brilliant ghosts, of headless snakes, of the moon falling from the sky, of Anna Nicole Smith’s beauty mark, Sharon Tate’s remarkable hair, and Sylvia Plath’s final pair of shoes. Readers encounter the water-bound spirit of Virginia Woolf and chase the troubled genius that haunts the legacy of Zelda Fitzgerald, where even the rain that falls in Asheville is “trying to tap her awake/…easing us all toward paradise.” As a multi-disciplinary artist and a comprehensive scholar of literature, Danielle Byington invites us into the serious collaboration that happens between viewers and texts and reminds us that the world is a text we are reading, from the insurrectionist absurdity of “masculine livestock on the Capitol stairs” all the way back to the light emanating from Plato’s cave. The range of reference and the depth of perception are dazzling in her unforgettable book. Byington creates poems that illuminate our interactions with art and culture, and that prompt us to consider how deeply our lives are made and remade by the works of art we engage.

–Jesse Graves, author of Merciful Days and Said-Songs: Essays on Poetry and Place

Danielle Byington’s We Are Mary Shelley’s Monster paints a portrait of Zelda Fitzgerald poured into air and of a snake’s white skull, of Anna Nicole Smith riding the bareback of methadone and of a rabid dog’s bottomless barks. With these startling poems, Byington gives us beautiful women who have bookended what men have barely started. This is a book full of moments that give us new names for both history and ourselves.

–Karen Salyer McElmurray, author of Wanting Radiance and Surrendered Child: A Birth Mother’s Journey

Please share/please repost #flpauthor #preorder #AwesomeCoverArt #poetry #chapbook #read #poems #history #mythology

[s89neha]

Unleash Innovation: Transform Your Culture

Unlocking a World-Class Innovation Culture: Insights from Google, Spotify, and Salesforce

Innovation culture is vital for tech companies striving for leadership in their fields. Drawing insights from top firms like Google, Spotify, and Salesforce, it's clear that fostering a culture of learning, experimentation, and purpose drives success. Prioritizing autonomy, mastery, and psychological safety, as advocated by Daniel Pink, enhances motivation and creativity.

Despite economic uncertainties, around 80% of companies prioritize innovation, recognizing its pivotal role. Successful innovators invest strategically during downturns, focusing on breakthroughs and effective portfolio management. In disruptive times, a commitment to innovation culture, strategic investment, and precise measurement is essential for driving growth and achieving results.

The Essence of Innovation Culture

An innovation culture is best described as an environment that zealously supports and nurtures creativity, forward-thinking, and continuous advancements. It embodies a mindset that encourages pushing the envelope, exploring new horizons, and transforming innovative concepts into real-world solutions. Key characteristics of such a culture include psychological safety—empowering team members to express their ideas and embrace risks without fear; a collaborative ethos that thrives on diverse viewpoints; streamlined processes that ensure nimbleness and quick decision-making; and a solid commitment to fostering growth and learning across the organization.

The influence of organizational culture on creating such an environment is profound. It molds how team members interact, collaborate, and innovate—directly impacting the company's capability to stay ahead of the curve. In environments rich in innovation culture, employees are propelled to challenge conventional wisdom, propose inventive solutions, and collaborate on initiatives that drive progress. This is not just about facilitating innovation but embedding a philosophy that views innovation as essential and ongoing.

The benefits of nurturing an innovative culture stretch far beyond internal efficiencies and morale. They directly correlate with a company's competitive edge, enabling it to swiftly adapt to market changes and launch products that resonate with evolving consumer needs.

In the highly competitive corridors of the tech industry, the relentless pursuit of innovation is a critical necessity. Leading tech organizations recognize this and have strategically woven innovation into the fabric of their corporate culture—resulting in significant gains in creativity, productivity, and market positioning.

Diving deeper into the dynamics of fostering an innovation-centric environment reveals that it's less about individual moments of inspiration and more about cultivating a collective spirit that prioritizes innovation consistently. Within these cultures, the tech powerhouses of tomorrow will emerge, driven by an ethos that doesn't just value innovation but embodies it every day.

Core Strategy for Cultivating Innovation

Cultivating an innovation culture within tech companies involves several strategic approaches, each aimed at fostering an environment where creativity and innovation thrive and drive the organization forward. Here's how companies can integrate these core strategies into their culture.

Promoting Psychological Safety and Encouragement for Experimentation

Creating a workplace where employees feel secure in voicing their ideas and embracing trial and error fosters innovation. Psychological safety ensures team members won't face punishment for speaking up or proposing unconventional ideas, ultimately encouraging experimentation and leading to breakthrough innovations.

Empowering Cross-functional Collaboration and Diversity

Encouraging cross-functional collaboration taps into various perspectives, skills, and experiences, fueling creativity and innovation. Diversity in thought, expertise, and background challenges the status quo and sparks innovative solutions.

Minimizing Bureaucracy for Agility

Reducing bureaucratic hurdles fosters a nimbler and more responsive environment, essential for innovation. Streamlining decision-making processes enables quicker iteration and adaptation to change, helping companies seize innovation opportunities more effectively.

Investing in Growth and Development

Investing in employees' growth and development demonstrates a commitment to innovation. Providing resources for learning, supporting professional development, and encouraging personal projects cultivates a skilled workforce passionate about pushing boundaries.

Integrating these strategies into the organizational culture is a continuous process that evolves alongside the company and its employees. Prioritizing psychological safety, encouraging diverse collaboration, streamlining processes for agility, and investing in employee growth build a strong foundation for a culture of innovation.

Companies leading the change

In the realm of tech innovation, leading companies like Google have set a high standard for fostering a culture that champions psychological safety, encourages diversity and cross-functional collaboration, minimizes bureaucracy for enhanced agility, and profoundly invests in the growth and development of its employees.

Promoting Psychological Safety and Encouragement for Experimentation

Google prioritizes psychological safety, evident in initiatives like Project Aristotle, which emphasizes team dynamics and risk-taking without fear of retribution. Practical tools and norms, such as starting meetings with discussions on risks taken, significantly enhance teams' psychological safety and clarity.

Empowering Cross-functional Collaboration and Diversity

Empowering employees to dedicate 20% of their time to personal projects fosters a culture where experimentation is valued and learning from failures is encouraged. This approach underscores the importance of diversity in thought and expertise, contributing to the company's collective learning and innovative capacity.

Minimizing Bureaucracy for Agility

Google reduces bureaucracy to enhance agility and responsiveness, embracing failure as part of the learning process. Leaders and employees are encouraged to recover from setbacks through resilience-building strategies, fostering an adaptable and quick-to-innovate workplace.

Investing in Growth and Development

Investing in employees' growth and development is central to Google's innovation strategy. Abundant resources and opportunities for personal and professional development, such as Google University and emotional intelligence programs, nurture talent and foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

Google's leadership practices set a standard for creating a thriving innovation culture in the tech industry. Emphasizing psychological safety, diversity, agility, and employee development, Google has achieved remarkable success and is a blueprint for others.

Spotify's agile structure accelerates innovation through cross-functional collaboration and autonomous teams.

Salesforce promotes psychological safety and employee well-being through its philanthropy model and comprehensive wellness program.

Adobe's Check-in model fosters continuous feedback and development, while the Kickbox program empowers employees to pursue innovation.

Concluding Thoughts

In the dynamic landscape of the tech industry, fostering innovation is an ongoing journey. Challenges like adapting organizational cultures, streamlining processes, and integrating remote work models urge continual innovation. Coditude, inspired by tech giants like Google, Spotify, and Salesforce, leads with a commitment to psychological safety, diversity, agility, and growth, creating an environment where innovation thrives. If you're driven by innovation and ready to shape the future of technology, join us at Coditude, where every idea has the potential to make a difference.

#organizational culture #corporate culture #innovation culture #company culture #workplace culture #creativity and innovation

[enterprisewired]

15 Must-Read Management Books for Your Professional Growth

The world of business and management is ever-evolving, requiring leaders to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with the latest insights. Management books serve as invaluable resources, offering wisdom, strategies, and practical advice from seasoned experts. In this guide, we explore a curated list of must-read management books that are essential for professional growth, leadership development, and mastering the complexities of the business landscape.

Here are 15 Must-Read Management Books

1. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey: 

Published in 1989, this timeless classic remains a cornerstone of personal and professional development. Covey’s principles focus on cultivating effective habits that lead to success, emphasizing the importance of proactivity, prioritization, and continuous improvement.

2. “Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap… and Others Don’t” by Jim Collins: 

Jim Collins explores what sets exceptional companies apart in this transformative book. Drawing on extensive research, Collins identifies key factors that contribute to the transition from good to great, including leadership strategies, organizational culture, and disciplined decision-making.

3. “The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses” by Eric Ries: 

Eric Ries introduces the Lean Startup methodology, emphasizing a scientific approach to creating and managing successful startups. This book is a valuable resource for leaders seeking to navigate uncertainty, minimize waste, and foster a culture of innovation within their organizations.

4. “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us” by Daniel H. Pink: 

Daniel Pink challenges conventional wisdom about motivation in the workplace. Exploring the science behind what drives human behavior, Pink argues that autonomy, mastery, and purpose are key factors that lead to higher levels of motivation and satisfaction.

5.”Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t” by Simon Sinek: 

Simon Sinek explores the concept of leadership and the importance of creating a “Circle of Safety” within organizations. Drawing on examples from the military to successful companies, Sinek emphasizes the role of trust, empathy, and a sense of purpose in effective leadership.

6. “Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman: 

Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman delves into the two systems that govern human thought processes: the fast, intuitive system, and the slow, deliberate system. This is one of the management books that provides valuable insights into decision-making, biases, and the intricacies of human cognition.

7. “The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail” by Clayton M. Christensen: 

Clayton Christensen explores the challenges that successful companies face when disruptive innovations emerge. Offering a framework for understanding disruptive forces, this book is essential for leaders navigating the complexities of technological change and market disruption.

8. “Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity” by Kim Scott: 

Kim Scott introduces the concept of radical candor as a management philosophy that combines caring personally with challenging directly. This book provides actionable insights on fostering open communication, building trust, and creating a positive work culture.

9. “The Art of Strategy: A Game Theorist’s Guide to Success in Business and Life” by Avinash K. Dixit and Barry J. Nalebuff: 

Game theory, a powerful tool in decision-making, is explored in this book by Dixit and Nalebuff. Applying game theory principles to real-world situations, the authors offer strategic insights applicable to both business and personal challenges.

10. “First Break All the Rules: What the World’s Greatest Managers Do Differently” by Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman: 

Based on extensive Gallup research, this book challenges traditional management practices. Buckingham and Coffman identify key factors that set exceptional managers apart, emphasizing the importance of focusing on strengths and individualizing management approaches.

11. “Leadership in War” by Andrew Roberts: 

Drawing parallels between historical military leaders and modern business leadership, Andrew Roberts explores the qualities that make great leaders. This book provides valuable lessons in strategic thinking, decision-making, and resilience.

12. “Emotional Intelligence 2.0” by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves: 

Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves delve into the concept of emotional intelligence (EI) and its impact on professional success. The book provides practical strategies for enhancing EI skills, including self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship management.

13. “Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant” by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne: 

Kim and Mauborgne introduce the concept of blue ocean strategy, advocating for businesses to seek uncontested market space rather than competing in crowded markets. The book provides a framework for strategic innovation and value creation.

14. “The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement” by Eliyahu M. Goldratt: 

Often considered a classic in operations and management literature, this novel by Goldratt introduces the Theory of Constraints. Through a fictional narrative, the book offers insights into identifying and overcoming bottlenecks in business processes.

15. “Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts.” by Brené Brown: 

Brené Brown explores the intersection of vulnerability and leadership, challenging traditional notions of power. This book provides practical guidance on fostering courageous leadership, embracing vulnerability, and building resilient teams.

Conclusion

In the dynamic world of management, staying abreast of key principles, strategies, and innovative approaches is essential for leadership success. The recommended management books encompass a diverse range of topics, offering insights from renowned authors and thought leaders. Whether you’re a seasoned executive, aspiring manager, or entrepreneur, these books serve as valuable guides on the journey to professional growth, effective leadership, and navigating the complexities of the business landscape.

Also read: Leadership Books: Your Guide to Unlocking the Leader Within

[bookloverlounge]

Drive Book. The key to lasting motivation in 'Drive', a game-changer for personal growth.

Discover the game-changing insights of Daniel H. Pink's "Drive" as it unveils the secrets behind what truly inspires us. With captivating storytelling and compelling research, Pink delves into the science of motivation, reshaping our understanding of what drives us to excel. Through relatable examples and practical advice, "Drive" empowers readers to tap into their innate drive for success, whether in the workplace or personal endeavors. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to unlock their full potential and cultivate a fulfilling life fueled by passion and purpose. Join the journey to discover the power of intrinsic motivation in "Drive."

#youtube

[davidbovino]

Leading with Purpose: 7 Books to Transform Your Management Philosophy

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, effective leadership is crucial for driving success and fostering growth. As a leader, your management philosophy shapes your decision-making, communication, and team development. To elevate your leadership capabilities and inspire meaningful change within your organization, continuously seeking knowledge and perspective from various sources is essential. In this article, we'll delve into seven transformative books that offer invaluable insights and practical strategies to revolutionize your management philosophy and lead with purpose.

Discovering the Power of Purpose-driven Leadership

Simon Sinek's "Start with Why" challenges leaders to articulate their organization's purpose – the fundamental reason for its existence – and align their actions with this guiding principle. Through compelling examples from successful companies like Apple and Southwest Airlines, Sinek illustrates how leaders who communicate a clear and inspiring why can rally their teams and cultivate a shared purpose. Leaders can inspire trust, foster innovation, and drive sustainable growth by starting with why. This book catalyzes leaders seeking to create a purpose-driven culture that motivates and empowers their teams to excel.

Embracing Conscious Leadership for Positive Organizational Impact

In "Conscious Leadership," John Mackey and his co-authors advocate for a new paradigm of leadership that prioritizes purpose, authenticity, and stakeholder integration. Drawing upon the principles of conscious capitalism, they argue that businesses have the potential to be powerful agents of positive change in society. Through inspiring stories and practical insights, the book offers guidance on how leaders can cultivate a conscious mindset, foster a culture of trust and transparency, and balance the needs of all stakeholders – including employees, customers, and the community. "Conscious Leadership" inspires leaders to embrace their role as stewards of a higher purpose and drive meaningful impact through their actions.

Unlocking Intrinsic Motivation for Enhanced Performance

Daniel Pink's "Drive" challenges traditional notions of motivation and offers a fresh perspective on what drives human behaviour. Drawing on research from psychology, Pink identifies three intrinsic motivators – autonomy, mastery, and purpose – that fuel engagement and creativity in the workplace. Leaders can unleash their intrinsic motivation and foster a high-performance culture by providing employees autonomy over their work, opportunities for skill development, and a sense of purpose. This book guides leaders seeking to create environments that inspire individuals to excel, innovate, and contribute their best efforts.

Cultivating a High-Performing Culture for Organizational Success

In "The Culture Code," Daniel Coyle explores the critical components of successful organizational cultures and how leaders can cultivate them within their teams. Through in-depth research and real-world examples, Coyle identifies three core elements – safety, shared vulnerability, and purpose – essential for building strong, cohesive teams. Leaders can foster trust, collaboration, and innovation by creating a culture of psychological safety where team members feel comfortable taking risks and sharing their ideas. "The Culture Code" provides actionable strategies for leaders to strengthen their team culture and drive performance through shared values and goals.

Prioritizing Servant Leadership for Team Success

Simon Sinek's "Leaders Eat Last" explores the concept of servant leadership and its profound impact on team dynamics and organizational performance. Drawing on examples from the military, business, and government, Sinek illustrates how leaders who prioritize the well-being of their team members create environments of trust, cooperation, and loyalty. By embodying the principles of servant leadership – including empathy, humility, and selflessness – leaders can inspire their teams to overcome challenges and achieve collective success. This book serves as a reminder that authentic leadership is not about authority or power but service and sacrifice for the greater good.

Cultivating Grit for Resilient Leadership

Angela Duckworth's "Grit" explores the role of passion and perseverance in achieving long-term goals and success. Through research and personal anecdotes, Duckworth demonstrates that talent and intelligence are not the sole predictors of achievement – grit, or the combination of passion and perseverance, plays a crucial role. Leaders can navigate obstacles, overcome setbacks, and maintain focus on their goals by cultivating spirit in themselves and their teams. This book offers practical strategies for developing grit and resilience, empowering leaders to lead with determination and inspire others to persist in facing challenges.

Embracing Vulnerability for Authentic Leadership

In "Dare to Lead," Brené Brown challenges leaders to embrace vulnerability as a critical component of authentic leadership. Drawing on her research on courage, shame, and empathy, Brown explores how leaders can cultivate courage, build trust, and foster meaningful connections within their teams. By leaning into discomfort and leading authentically, leaders can create environments where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to contribute their best work. "Dare to Lead" provides practical tools and strategies for leaders to navigate difficult conversations, foster inclusivity, and inspire positive organizational change.

Effective leadership is not merely about achieving results – it's about inspiring and empowering others to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to a shared vision. By immersing yourself in the wisdom of these seven transformative books, you can gain invaluable insights and practical strategies to revolutionize your management philosophy and lead with purpose. From articulating a compelling why to embracing vulnerability and cultivating grit, each book offers unique perspectives and actionable guidance for leaders committed to positively impacting their organizations and beyond. Embrace the opportunity to deepen your leadership capabilities, inspire meaningful change, and create a culture of purpose and fulfilment for yourself and your team.

Litigation Leadership with David Bovino

We are known for our creative, aggressive litigators and willingness to take on challenging cases. We outthink and outflank our opponents and understand how to win for our clients. We have extensive trial experience and are always trial-ready, representing plaintiffs and defendants in every area of litigation. We are committed to pursuing aggressive and innovative approaches to our client's most challenging legal matters.

[learneducation]

The Value of CFA Soft Skills

If there is one thing as important as technical skills for a finance professional, then it is soft skills. A report by the CFA Institute titled The Future of Work in Investment Management: The Future of Skills and Learning has findings that prove this. The survey revealed that technical skills would pay off at the entry level. But, it is the soft skills that will matter over time. A Stanford and Harvard study shows that 85% of job success is directly related to soft and people skills. Only 15% comes from technical skills.

With new data sources emerging, the technical skills required for the investment industry are changing. But, most of the soft skills remain the same. Skills like time management, direct communication and being resourceful are taking center Centre stage.

Let us look at what are the essential soft skills for a CFA and how they add value to the job.

Before that, if you are thinking to join CFA, do check 1FIN by IndigoLearn. Call us on 9640111110

Emphasizing Salesmanship for Every CFA Professional

We are at a point in time where everyone is a salesman. Everyone is out there pitching an idea and selling something. This is true for a CFA professional as well.

A skilled CFA professional should be able to sell, persuade and build strong client relationships. A finding from The Future of Work in Investment Management: The Future of Skills and Learning confirms this. The study says soft skills now revolve around influencing, persuading, and negotiating with people.

A popular TED talk by Daniel Pink on the art of selling demonstrates this. He asserts that everyone is, in a broader sense, involved in sales. This sentiment holds particularly true in the finance industry. It is all about client interactions which determine the success of any organizations. CFAs, as representatives of their firms, are responsible for conveying technical knowledge. They also need to build trust and rapport with clients.

The competition in the financial services sector is fierce, and client trust is paramount. Here effective salesmanship makes all the difference. With a client-centric approach, CFA professionals can create better work relationships.

Explaining Articulating Complex Topics with Simplicity

Understanding a technical concept is one thing, but conveying it in simple terms is the hard part. A CFA professional must explain complex financial topics to others in simple language. They will have to evaluate news, grasp market trends and effectively translate them to clients. This will directly lead to better trust, engagement and strong relationship with the clients.

According to Lead squared, mastering the art of explanations can increase brand loyalty and improve customer retention. It also opens up opportunities for up-selling and cross-selling. What it does is it reduces the sales cycle as customer advocates for their services.

Thought Leadership and its Impact on Career Growth

Thought leadership is important in all industries because it helps organizations become experts and leaders in their field. This helps others to learn and grow. Thought leadership is about growth, innovation, and creating opportunities.

The CFA Institute's Future of Finance program focuses on developing thought leadership. It helps create a more trustworthy, forward-thinking investment professional.

Investing in thought leadership has other advantages as well. It increases the credibility of the organization. As an expert in the field, clients, colleagues, and potential employers will find you more insightful.

Like other soft skills that help advance a career, thought leadership also helps climb the ladder. A CFA with such a skill demonstrates expertise and value to potential employers.

Tips to Strengthen Soft Skills for CFA Professionals

CFA institute India help CFA professionals to build their Soft skills for succeed in their careers. These skills can help professionals effectively interact with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders. Here are some tips for building soft skills as a CFA professional.

Get professional training: Professional training can ensure you have the necessary skills to succeed. This can include workshops, courses, or other training opportunities. It should focus on communication, teamwork, and other essential soft skills.

Utilize industry resources: Many industry resources and workshops are available to help CFA professionals improve their communication skills. Find ones that are relevant to you and most accessible. These can include online courses, webinars, or in-person workshops by veterans.

Find mentorship programs: The value of mentorship and continuous learning in honing soft skills is immense. Working with a mentor can provide guidance and support to develop your skills. You can learn the best practices from experienced people. It also opens up a lot of networking opportunities.

Practice active listening: Active listening involves fully focusing on the speaker, understanding their message, and providing appropriate feedback. This skill is essential for building strong relationships with clients and colleagues. A CFA professional will find this skill handy.

Developing EQ: Emotional Intelligence, also known as Eemotional Quotient (EQ), is a critical skill that needs nurturing. It involves being aware of and managing your own emotions. It is also understanding and responding to the emotions of others. This skill can help you navigate challenging situations and build strong relationships. It is an essential skill for a leader.

Practice communication skills: One of the best ways to get better at communication skills is to practice them. Consider taking a course or workshop to get ample practice.

Seek feedback: Ask your colleagues, mentors, or supervisors for feedback on your soft skills. This can help you identify areas for improvement and develop a growth plan.

Get involved in teamwork: Teamwork is essential for achieving shared goals and collaborating effectively with colleagues. Practice active listening, clear communication, and conflict resolution to strengthen your teamwork skills.

Key Takeaway

No one can deny the value of soft skills for CFA professionals. As the finance industry evolves, CFA professionals must invest in both technical and soft skills. It opens up opportunities for growth, innovation, and exceptional career advancement.

It is clear from the CFA Institute's report that technical skills may be crucial for entry-level positions, but soft skills matter in the long run. Effective communication, being an expert salesman, and breaking down complex concepts are all essential soft skills that a CFA must master.

If you aspire to unlock your potential as a finance professional, it's time to start brushing up your soft skills.

To start with CFA or to know more about it visit 1finin/cfa or contact us on 9640111110.

At IndigoLearn, we are here to support you through your journey to becoming a CFA. Join us to take the first step towards a successful and fulfilling career in finance. Your future as a CFA awaits!

#cfa institute india #cfa qualifications #cfa Institute #certified financial analyst

[prodleader]

An Essential Reading List of 28 Books for Product Managers

In a rapidly evolving world where innovation takes center stage, the journey to becoming a successful product manager demands continuous learning and adaptability. Fortunately, an invaluable source of knowledge lies within the pages of books. In this article, we have thoughtfully curated a list of 28 essential books that every aspiring product manager should explore. These books cover a diverse spectrum of topics, ranging from the foundational principles of product management to the intricacies of user experience design.

Product Management Fundamentals

1. Inspired: How To Create Products Customers Love by Marty Cagan

2. The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses by Eric Ries

3. Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products by Nir Eyal

4. The Art of Product Management: Lessons from a Silicon Valley Innovator by Rich Mironov

Thought Leadership

1. Measure What Matters: Online Tools for Understanding Customers, Social Media, Engagement, and Key Relationships by Katie Delahaye Paine

2. Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't by Simon Sinek

3. The Innovator's Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail by Clayton Christensen

4. Crossing the Chasm: Marketing and Selling High-Tech Products to Mainstream Customers by Geoffrey A. Moore

Product Strategy

1. Good Strategy Bad Strategy: The Difference and Why It Matters by Richard Rumelt

2. Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne

3. The Lean Product Playbook: How to Innovate with Minimum Viable Products and Rapid Customer Feedback by Dan Olsen

4. Hacking Growth: How Today's Fastest-Growing Companies Drive Breakout Success by Sean Ellis and Morgan Brown

Product Frameworks

1. Sprint: How to Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days by Jake Knapp

2. Inspired Jobs to Be Done: Get Out of the Building by Alan Klement and Bob Moesta

3. Agile Estimating and Planning by Mike Cohn

4. Design a Better Business: New Tools, Skills, and Mindset for Strategy and Innovation by Patrick Van Der Pijl, Justin Lokitz, and Roland Wijnen

Product-Adjacent Skills

1. Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson

2. Lean Analytics: Use Data to Build a Better Startup Faster by Alistair Croll and Benjamin Yoskovitz

3. The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers by Ben Horowitz

4. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Inspirational and Motivational Books

1. Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink

2. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck

3. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth

4. Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

User Experience

1. Don't Make Me Think: A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability by Steve Krug

2. The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman

3. User Story Mapping: Discover the Whole Story, Build the Right Product by Jeff Patton

4. Lean UX: Applying Lean Principles to Improve User Experience by Jeff Gothelf and Josh Seiden

Consider these books as more than mere reading material; they are the keys to sharpening your product management skills, nurturing personal development, and successfully navigating the dynamic terrain of technology and innovation. Embrace the profound insights they provide, allowing them to guide your journey toward becoming an outstanding product manager.

Originally published at www.productleadership.com on August 26, 2023. If you’re seeking accurate and reliable guidance, visit the site link to read more on Product Management, Data Science, UX and equip yourself with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the world of product management with ease and confidence.

#product management #product management skills #product manager #product development #product roles

[innerkingdomartisan]

Unleashing Motivation: 5 Must-Read Books for Personal Growth and get free books or audio books! More in the article.

Motivation is the fuel that drives us towards our goals and helps us conquer challenges. In the realm of personal growth and self-improvement, there are numerous books that provide invaluable insights and strategies to inspire and ignite motivation. Here, we present five outstanding books that have the power to transform lives and unlock the full potential within.

So how you can get free book.

Just register via my link.

"The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen R. Covey:

Covey's classic offers timeless principles for personal and professional success, emphasizing proactive behavior, goal-setting, and effective habits.

"Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl:

Frankl's memoir explores finding meaning in life through his experiences as a Holocaust survivor, offering profound insights into motivation and resilience.

"The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho:

This enchanting novel follows a young shepherd's quest for his personal legend, imparting wisdom on following dreams, perseverance, and the transformative power of motivation.

"Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" by Daniel H. Pink:

Pink challenges traditional notions of motivation, highlighting the importance of intrinsic motivation and autonomy in driving individuals towards excellence.

"Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol S. Dweck:

Dweck's influential work explores the power of mindset, showcasing how adopting a growth mindset can enhance motivation, learning, and achievement.

So how you can get free book.

Just registrate via my link.

Motivation is a vital force for personal growth and success. The books mentioned above serve as powerful guides, offering valuable strategies, inspiring stories, and transformative insights. By exploring these works, you can unlock your motivation, overcome obstacles, and embark on a fulfilling journey of self-improvement. So, pick up these books, dive into their wisdom, and unleash your true potential today!

#motivation #mindset #money #book #reading #fun #education #content #happy#smart #books #audiobooks #audiobook #betterperson

[captainmdhridoyhossain-blog]

[ad_1] Supercharge Your Motivation: Top Self-Improvement Tips Introduction: Motivation plays a crucial role in our lives, driving us to achieve our goals and reach new heights. However, maintaining high levels of motivation can be a daunting task, especially with the daily challenges and distractions that come our way. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore effective self-improvement tips to supercharge your motivation. Whether you are looking to excel in your career, pursue personal goals, or enhance your overall well-being, these insightful strategies will help you unlock your full potential. I. Understanding Motivation and Its Importance A. Definition of Motivation B. The Significance of High Motivation Levels C. Benefits of Motivation in Different Areas of Life II. Setting SMART Goals A. Introduction to SMART Goals B. Specificity: The Key Foundation C. Measurability: Tracking Progress D. Achievability: Challenging Yet Attainable E. Relevance: Aligning Goals with Values F. Time-Bound: Setting Deadlines for Accountability III. Cultivating a Growth Mindset A. The Power of Mindset in Motivation B. Differentiating Fixed and Growth Mindsets C. Steps to Develop a Growth Mindset 1. Embrace Challenges 2. Learn from Failure 3. Seek Continuous Improvement IV. Harnessing the Power of Visualization A. Understanding Visualization Techniques B. Utilizing Visual Imagery for Motivation C. Guided Visualization Exercises for Enhanced Focus D. Creating Vision Boards to Reinforce Goals V. Practicing Positive Self-Talk A. The Impact of Self-Talk on Motivation B. Recognizing and Replacing Negative Thoughts C. Affirmations as a Tool for Positive Self-Talk D. Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Self-Confidence VI. Building a Supportive Environment A. The Influence of Surroundings on Motivation B. Identifying and Eliminating Negativity C. Finding Like-minded Individuals and Role Models D. Creating Accountability Partnerships VII. Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity A. Changing the Perception of Failure B. Extracting Lessons from Setbacks C. Reframing Failure as Feedback D. Maintaining Persistence and Resilience VIII. Prioritizing Self-Care A. Recognizing the Importance of Self-Care B. Incorporating Healthy Habits into Daily Routines C. Balancing Work, Rest, and Leisure D. Nurturing Physical and Mental Well-being IX. Overcoming Procrastination A. Understanding the Procrastination Trap B. Identifying Root Causes of Procrastination C. Efficient Time Management Techniques D. Breaking Tasks into Smaller, Manageable Steps X. Developing an Action Plan A. An Overview of Effective Action Planning B. Creating a Personalized Action Plan C. Tracking Progress and Celebrating Milestones D. Adjusting and Revisiting Goals as Needed FAQs: Q1: How long does it take to see results using these self-improvement tips? A1: The time taken to see results varies based on individual commitment and the complexity of goals. Consistency and perseverance are key factors in achieving positive outcomes. Q2: Can these tips be applied to both personal and professional goals? A2: Absolutely! The strategies outlined in this article are applicable to various areas of life, be it personal or professional. Motivation is a universal driving force that can benefit all aspects of our lives. Q3: Are there any recommended resources for additional motivation and self-improvement? A3: Yes, numerous books, podcasts, and online platforms exist that specialize in motivation and self-improvement. Some highly recommended resources include "Drive" by Daniel H. Pink, "Awaken the Giant Within" by Anthony Robbins, and "The Tim Ferriss Show" podcast. Conclusion: Motivation is the key ingredient for success and personal fulfillment. By implementing the self-improvement tips outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can harness the power of motivation and unlock your true potential. Remember, developing and maintaining motivation is an ongoing journey that requires dedication, perseverance, and a belief in your abilities.

Start supercharging your motivation today and witness the incredible transformation it brings to your life! [ad_2] #Supercharge #Motivation #Top #SelfImprovement #Tips

[masongrizchel]

Day 157 of 365

The month of May is about to conclude.

There was a phrase in the book by Daniel Pink about endings. "

The best endings don't leave us happy. Instead, they produce something richer – a rush of unexpected insight, a fleeting moment of transcendence, the possibility that by discarding what we wanted we've gotten what we need."

Endings are just beginnings" holds a profound truth and reality. When one chapter or phase of life ends, it often marks the beginning of something new and potentially exciting—looking forward to achievable, attainable facts. It marks the beginning of something new and possibly exciting opportunity that we look forward to. It is sometimes bittersweet, as they involve letting go of familiar routines, relationships, or situations. It may also create new space for growth, change, and a fresh start.

Endings can occur in broad aspects of our lives. It can be relationships, careers, educational endeavors, or personal goals. It might bring temporary feelings of loss. It can also catalyze personal development and even transformation - a metamorphosis. It happens when we embrace the idea of endings as a fresh start. We open this as a possibility that lies ahead of us.

In relationships, the end of a romantic partnership, friendship, or familial bond can be brutal. However, it can also pave the way for new connections, self-discovery, and a chance to redefine ourselves and our priorities. Each ending teaches us valuable lessons, helps us understand our needs better, and equips us with the knowledge to embark on healthier and more fulfilling relationships in the future.

Regarding careers, the end of a job or a professional phase can be unsettling. Yet, it can be an opportunity to explore new fields, acquire additional skills, or even start a business venture. The ending of one career path may lead to the discovery of a passion or purpose that was previously undiscovered.

Furthermore, completing educational endeavors, such as graduating from school or completing a degree, marks the end of a specific learning chapter. However, it opens the door to further educational pursuits, career opportunities, or applying acquired knowledge in practical settings. As an example, in my case. I am about to quit my MS Physics program due to financial constrains.

To conclude, "Endings are just beginnings" reminds us to embrace change, accept that transitions are a natural part of life, and view endings as opportunities for growth and renewal. By adopting this mindset, we can approach new beginnings with optimism, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

I am looking forward to more signs to move on in this critical chapter of my life.

[vinishbuzz]

"Discover the Secrets Behind Pink Floyd's Timeless Classic 'The Dark Side of the Moon' with Daniel Levitin's Expert Analysis!" #PinkFloyd #DarkSideOfTheMoon #DanielLevitin #MusicAnalysis #CulturalIcon #ClassicRock

“Discover the Secrets Behind Pink Floyd’s Timeless Classic ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’ with Daniel Levitin’s Expert Analysis!” #PinkFloyd #DarkSideOfTheMoon #DanielLevitin #MusicAnalysis #CulturalIcon #ClassicRock The article explores the insights of cognitive psychologist Daniel Levitin on Pink Floyd’s legendary album, “The Dark Side of the Moon.” Levitin deconstructs the album’s musical and…

View On WordPress

#ClassicRock #CulturalIcon #DanielLevitin #DarkSideOfTheMoon #MusicAnalysis #PinkFloyd

[goldjointogether]

Ask: What could I do?

#message in a bottle #self love

[ruthlangdon]

(PDF Download) The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward - Daniel H. Pink

Download Or Read PDF The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward - Daniel H. Pink Free Full Pages Online With Audiobook.

  [*] Download PDF Here => The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward

[*] Read PDF Here => The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward

 From the #1 New York Times-bestselling author of When and Drive, a new book about the transforming power of our most misunderstood yet potentially most valuable emotion: regret.Everybody has regrets, Daniel H. Pink explains in The Power of Regret. They're a universal and healthy part of being human. And understanding how regret works can help us make smarter decisions, perform better at work and school, and bring greater meaning to our lives.Drawing on research in social psychology, neuroscience, and biology, Pink debunks the myth of the "no regrets" philosophy of life. And using the largest sampling of American attitudes about regret ever conducted as well as his own World Regret Survey--which has collected regrets from more than 15,000 people in 105 countries--he lays out the four core regrets that each of us has. These deep regrets offer compelling insights into how we live and how we can find a better path forward.As he did in his bestsellers Drive, When, and A Whole New Mind,