The action of challenge has been a recurring theme for me in recent days. I had forgotten how important it is to be challenged and to challenge others. Growth is dependent on this dynamic and as leaders we can forget that this is a powerful way to motivate, excite, engage, intensify and wake-up the talent around us. As leaders we must expand our range of styles in this domain of challenge.  

Busyness and action are the bywords of our current lives. There is no room for space/emptiness/quietness/nothingness. These seem to be the enemy that no one is prepared to succumb to, so we fight it off by always being on the go, most of it in the name of productivity. 

Sir John Whitmore shares a true story of a key moment of awakening that created a positive powerful engagement of his true capabilities. Speaking here at the recent ICF European Conference 2011, Sir John is considered one of the founders of the modern coaching industry. 

Our interview today gives great insight into the challenge faced by all leaders in the Middle East namely, ‘how to adapt our leadership style to this specific market with specific nuances’.