The new James Bond movie Skyfall was finally released here on the southern end of Africa, and while I will leave it to the likes of Rogert Ebert to review the movie, one of the things that stood out for me, was the focus on M as someone who’s time has passed her by. In a new world with new enemies (replace with competitors in the business world), and a new battlefield, M’s new boss has decided that what is needed is quick change for the sake of change, and M is forced into retirement.
During a hearing in which she is asked to defend her tenure she quotes from Alfred Tenyssons poem Ulysses.
Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and tho’
We are not now that strength which in old days
Moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are;
One equal temper of heroic hearts,
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.
The lesson for business leaders is that while we need to be aware of and adapt to changing market conditions, through the use of new strategies etc, we should not be so quick to replace experienced leaders and employees.
Watch the below video of the recitation of Ulysses by Sir John Gielgud
Come, my friends,
‘Tis not too late to seek a newer world.
Push off, and sitting well in order smite
The sounding furrows; for my purpose holds
To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths
Of all the western stars, until I die.
It may be that the gulfs will wash us down:
It may be we shall touch the Happy Isles, [5]
And see the great Achilles, whom we knew.
Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and tho’
We are not now that strength which in old days
Moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are;
One equal temper of heroic hearts,
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.
For any thoughts, comments or questions send Yaseen Dadabhay an email at [email protected]