Showing papers by "K C Patrick Low published in 2012"

Confucianism Versus Taoism

Abstract: In this paper, the practitioner-academician makes comparisons and contrasts between the two great philosophical bodies (or oldest religious traditions) of China, that is, Confucianism and Taoism. Among other things, the key commonalities of Confucianism and Taoism include being in pursuit of the Tao, close to nature and harmony, and taking the right actions are critical than just the belief(s). The key differences are also examined here, and these, among other things, include human living and spirituality, and filial piety and nature as well as rites and beyond rites.

Leadership Lessons from Confucius, the 9Ps and Confucian Pillars of Self-Discipline

Abstract: In this paper, by speaking to several Confucian respondents in the three Asian countries of Brunei, Malaysia and Singapore, the practitioner-academician examines self-discipline and the 9Ps, perceived through the Confucian visor. More specifically, the article offers self-discipline ways and pointers that bolster the various leadership qualities and character of a person, making the person a good leader.

Being Empathetic, The Way of Confucius

Abstract: One’s life and the lives of others would certainly be better when one is empathetic when interacting with others; one puts oneself in other’s shoes as well as feel for others. In this article, the practitioner-academician examines the various ways of increasing one’s empathy via the Old Master’s teachings. The paper bears a modern relevance, and this is truly a very interesting proposal and standpoint since most people would have thought of the Old Master as developing and nurturing one’s benevolence or ren. In any case, empathy is linked to being benevolent or showing loving-kindness to one’s fellow human beings. Among other things, the key Confucian ways of raising one’s empathy are: knowing oneself, listening to others (the other party: OP) and knowing the OP as well as doing what the OP is doing. In the latter point, some relevant elements of body language are also discussed.

Confucius, Learning and Mind Growth – Want to Be A Winner?

Abstract: In this paper, as the title suggests, through interviews, literature reviews and discussions, the academician-practitioner examines the Confucian value of learning and linking it to the various aspects of mind growth. Mindset and mind growth are defined with comparisons and assessments made. Citing theory and practice, the untrapped mind leads to the widening of the mind, mind expansion and the breaking down of boundaries – knocking existing notions, unlearning and learning. There is much learning and in fact, continuous learning. Citing the various Confucian literatures, several traits or features of the Confucian mind growth are also examined. These features of the Confucian mind growth include, among other things, having an untrapped mind, being open-minded and succeeding as well as being magnanimous, loving and looking at the ‘impossibles’.

The Value of Integrity, the Confucian Perspective

Abstract: In this article, the practitioners/academicians examine leaders who embrace and practice the value of integrity from the Confucian perspective in South East Asia, more so, in the Brunei context. From Confucius comes the emphasis on leadership with integrity which is linked to positive, harmonious relationships as well as to the values of benevolence and reciprocity that bring many benefits to business prosperity. The practice of Confucian teachings can bring much peace, learning, and growth for business sustainability.

Are Chinese Societies More Susceptible or Inclined to Corruption

Abstract: Corruption today threatens the strength and international credibility of the People’s Republic of China’s emerging new economy, and is in fact a main issue for the regime critics. Here, the practitioner-academician is asking and probing, “What make Chinese societies more predisposed or prone to corruption? Is this true? If so, what are the key reasons for this? If not, are there any mitigating reasons for it?” Several suggested solutions to limit the problem of corruption are also put forth and examined. Among other things, he puts forth the argument for the reinstatement of (Confucian leadership, the Rectification of Names and) values so as to minimize or reduce the menace of corruption.

The Confucian Rectification of Names and People/Human Resource Management

Abstract: In this article, the practitioner-academician examines the Confucian Rectification of Names and applies it to job titles and human resources management. The paper is analyzed in three parts, that is: Should a leader/manager act or fulfill his or her role and responsibilities? What happens if the title or appointment does not match or fit with the qualities and competencies or skills of the jobholder? and When there is no Rectification of Names, much incompetence can exist and office politics can be rife?

Malay Leadership Style, the Brunei Perspective

Abstract: In this paper, through literature surveys and interviews, the practitioner-author examines the key Malay leadership style and ways in Brunei Darussalam. Interestingly, the Malay cultural values and practices are also examined as these affect the leadership style and ways of the Malay leaders. Several key advantages and disadvantages of the Malay leadership style/ ways are also highlighted while discussing the various features of the Sultanate’s Malay leadership style.

Applying Rituals and Ceremonies to Strengthen One's Leadership and Management Influence

Abstract: Here, what are being examined are rituals and ceremonies, their uses and functions and their place(s) in leading and managing people. These are, at times, seen or examined from the perspective of Confucian leadership and management and in several ways, this paper can also help readers to pick learning points and employ them in checklist(s) for them to up or enhance, if not, attend to their leadership and managerial influence among their people. The article stresses on the need for leaders and managers, in applying rituals and ceremonies, to also better do their role and responsibilities by asking good questions while learning, adapting, and growing in the job.

Creating Affluence and Feeling Joyful

Abstract: Everyone wants to feel happy, healthy, joyful, and vitality in our life. And that is affluence. Here, the author is highlighting the ways, advantages and benefits of creating affluence and feeling joyful. Interestingly, one critical tool or aid is for us to feel thankful and indeed grateful for our life and living. And another tool is that of thinking positively. The paper also discusses and includes other tools and aids such as having wealth consciousness – being aware and cultivating the abundance attitude, being positive and open, value-adding, detaching, living simply and several other ways.

The Classic Leadership Sins and the Way Forward Through the Confucian Visor

Abstract: In this article, the practitioner-academician examines the common sins or errors of leadership and suggests the ways of looking at these sins through the Confucian visor, quoting verses from The Analects. These leadership sins, among other things, include using mere words but not putting into practice, being a selfish leader, being a petty leader, thinking narrowly or not being open-minded as well as doing little planning. More importantly, the way forward or solutions, using the Confucian prescription, are then put forth.

Motivation and Leadership According to Lao Tzu’s 3 Treasures

Abstract: In this paper, the researcher-author relates the applications and benefits of Lao Tzu’s three greatest treasures: simplicity, patience and compassion – to motivation and leadership. This paper includes a research model, research methodology and its findings, discussions as well as an analysis with its concluding remarks. The use of the three treasures of Lao Tzu is really useful for a leader in terms of motivating oneself and one’s followers as well as those whom one leads and cares for. Here, the university don has, in most ways, turned the Chinese philosophy of Taoism into leadership and management lessons and their applications.

City-Branding of Astana, the Capital of Kazakhstan and the Oasis of Central Asia

Abstract: Since 1997, Astana, the Capital of Kazakhstan, in the north-central part of the country, is fast growing and becoming a popular centre in Central Asia. Through a literature review and a series of interviews, the authors suggest ways and various strategies in branding the capital city. The model they used in branding this Central Asian city of Astana is simple yet effective. They apply the RAW model... read on!

Capitalizing on Ethical Corporate Identity to Competitively Position Brands

Abstract: Here, the authors examine the issue of ethical corporate identity to competitively position brands, and this serves as a vital platform for corporations to critically think on ways in which they can cause or affect corporate socially responsible activities tying in or matching with the values of their constituents and stakeholders so as to gain greater and cherished place or positioning in the minds as well as the hearts of their constituents. More so, these days, stakeholders understand deeper meanings and develop greater associations with those organisations that they believed are genuinely concern on the society’s and environment’s well-being.

Blue Ocean Strategy (BOS) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Abstract: In business, there are neither such things as one would call permanently excellent companies, nor permanently excellent industries. However, one must agree that corporations, from time to time, do make some smart things and some not so smart things. And to improve the quality of one’s success, one needs to study what one did that made a positive difference, and understand how to replicate it systematically. That is what one calls making smart strategic moves, and it is often taken that the strategic move that really matters centrally is to create blue oceans. Blue ocean opportunities have been out there, and they have been explored; the market space has been expanding. This expansion, one believes, is the root of growth. If one wants to make a difference; to create a company that builds a future for the benefits of customers, employees, shareholders, and society; blue ocean strategy challenges companies to break, so to speak, out of the box. Companies need to break out of the red ocean of aggressive competition by creating uncontested market space that makes the competition irrelevant. Instead of dividing up existing and often shrinking demand and benchmarking competitors, blue ocean strategy is about growing demand and breaking away from the competition. Blue ocean strategy (BOS) is also about having an open mind in business, and seeking all opportunities of creating uncontested market space, and in this way, it makes the competition irrelevant.

Zen, Tea Drinking and the Way of Promoting Peace and Harmony

Abstract: In this paper, the practitioner-academician reflects on Zen and the tea ceremony (cha-no-yu, chadō or sadō), the way of tea, and what tea drinking means in Japan. The article examines the connection between Zen, relationships and tea drinking. Insights are made onto the social etiquette of tea drinking or tea ceremonies in Japan which is an essential component of the Japanese culture.

Three Treasures of Buddhism & Leadership Insights

Abstract: Here, through the inputs of several Buddhists practitioners, the author looks at the three treasures of Buddhism, chiefly the attempt, endeavor and possession of deep understanding and compassion, knowledge (Dharma) and like-minds and like-hearts (Sangha); he discusses the leadership lessons and insights that arise from understanding and practicing these three treasures.

Leading Change, the Buddhist Perspective

Abstract: In this paper, through literature review and interviews, the academician-practitioner examines and views change from the perspective of Buddhism. If human beings are not attached to a system, a procedure or a practice in one form or the other, they simply move from one to another. No feelings of loss exist when there are no feelings of desire and attachment. One thus just slides or moves along. 'Move with the cheese. And enjoy it!' (Johnson, 1998). Change is to be gladly accepted, and interestingly, what the management gurus are saying about coping with change coincide with Buddhist principles.

Resolving Conflicts, the Confucius’ Way

Abstract: Here in this paper, the practitioner-academician/ researcher examines how a Confucian, following the Old Master, resolves conflicts. With various quotes from The Analects and several other sources, several key strategies and ways of conflict resolution, the Confucian way, are discussed. These strategies and ways include, for example, speaking correctly, carrying oneself well (– being a gentleperson; junzi) and being trustworthy, preferring good relationships and valuing harmony, and being patient as well as enduring problems and difficulties.

Increasing Confidence, the Confucius Way

Abstract: Life is certainly better when one lives with confidence. And in this article, the practitioner-academician examines the various ways of increasing one’s confidence via the Old Master’s teachings. This is truly a very interesting proposal and perspective since most people would not have thought of the Old Master as developing and nurturing one’s confidence.Among other things, the key Confucian ways of raising one’s confidence are: learning, thinking positively, living with one’s core Confucian values, developing a calm mind and building relationships, making friends as well as gaining the trust of our friends, family members, business associates and others. Of paramount importance, one is clean and of high integrity, and one undoubtedly stands tall.