Inspiration: Life I learnt from a Jigsaw puzzle

Racheal Govender

Spaces for leaders to develop | Organisational Psychologist | Global Leadership Development and Advisory services | Executive coach | Leadership Faculty | Author | Executive PhD candidate

Originally published on February 24, 2015

Having worked in Leadership development now for many years, I have noticed some patterns emerge.

I have found that while most leadership stories are different, the challenges remain the same. And although the composition of individual solutions tend to be unique, there are some practices that are helpful to all.

I came across this poem that expressed some of these practices so beautifully. This poem encompasses so many good lessons to raise your awareness when the challenges of everyday life bring you down.

Whenever I need to remind myself of healthy practices, I remember this poem, and think about what I could be doing differently. I hope you enjoy it.

 Life I Learned from a Jigsaw Puzzle –Author unknown

Don’t force a fit. If something is meant to be, it will come together naturally.

When things aren’t going so well, take a break. Everything will look different when you return.

Be sure to look at the big picture. Getting hung up on the little pieces only leads to frustration.

Perseverance pays off. Every important puzzle went together bit by bit, piece by piece.

When one spot stops working, move to another. But be sure to come back later. The creator of the puzzle gave you the picture as a guidebook.

Variety is the spice of life. It’s the different colors and patterns that make the puzzle interesting.

Establish the border first. Boundaries give a sense of security and order.

Don’t be afraid to try different combinations. Some matches are surprising.

Take time to celebrate your successes (even little ones).

Anything worth doing takes time and effort. A great puzzle can’t be rushed.

About Racheal:  I support leaders to achieve the extraordinary. I love when clients reach that ‘aha’ moment and their lives are transformed.

Having extensive experience in both the corporate world, and private practice, I am trained as an Organisational Psychologist, and Executive Coach. I have worked with leaders internationally from my beautiful country South Africa, to greater Africa, meeting some amazing leaders in Zambia, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Namibia and Kenya. I have also had the pleasure of coaching leaders in Europe from the UK, Russia, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, Slovakia, as well as Mexico, China, UAE, USA and New Zealand.

I have a curious mind, an adventurous and open spirit, and a love for people development. I believe that through engaging our passions and embracing our gifts we can create meaning and find our purpose. And through our journey of self-awareness and development we offer the world our very best authentic self.  In my quiet time, I enjoy writing and have regularly contributed to inspiring blogs, and self-development websites and magazines.

How does coaching work: A coach will partner with you, and act as a catalyst to achieve your goals. A coach has a unique perspective and is trained on a specific methodology that evokes curiosity, and reflection. If you want to truly succeed, and achieve something extraordinary, a coach is essential.