The heart-wrenching stories of loss and survival from the Wayanad landslides are difficult for us even to comprehend. As we gather our thoughts to move forward, I want to express our deepest condolences and heartfelt empathy for the families who have experienced loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected, and CSS is committed to extending all possible support in these trying times.
We need to reflect on how we, as a company, can continue to navigate the challenges we face in our industry. I want to share a few insights from a bestselling book I recently read by the Harvard Business School professor and author Bill George called “Discover Your True North”.
What’s Our True North?
In real life, “true north” is the direction that points straight towards the North Pole. It’s a fixed point that helps people navigate and find their way. In business parlance “true north” is a concept that can refer to a company’s direction, integrating its vision, mission, and values into one cohesive strategy that all team members can follow.
In his book, he explains that discovering your true north is about following your internal compass. It guides you on your path to your best destination and helps you stay on track to become the best person and the best leader you can be.
At CSS, our “true north” is our strategic vision that guides every decision and action. It represents our highest aspirations and serves as the benchmark for all our initiatives, ensuring we stay aligned with our long-term goals.
I believe that these nuggets of wisdom from the book can inspire and direct our actions:
Authentic Leadership: “Your True North is what you believe is right and good, guiding you as a leader and as a person.” We must ensure that our actions are always guided by our core values and principles.
Character and Integrity: “Authentic leadership is built on your character and integrity, not your image or charisma.” Our success depends on maintaining integrity and being true to ourselves and our stakeholders.
Value-Driven Leadership: “Leaders are defined by their values and the principles they uphold, especially in times of crisis.” Upholding our values and principles during challenging times defines us as true leaders.
Empathy and Compassion: “Empathy and compassion are essential qualities for leaders to connect with their teams and stakeholders.” We must lead with empathy, understanding, and support for each other.
Resilience and Growth: “True leaders embrace challenges and view setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.” Every challenge we face is an opportunity to grow stronger and more resilient.
Trust and Collaboration: “Building trust and fostering collaboration are critical for sustainable success in any organization.” Trust and collaboration are the foundations of our continued success and innovation.
Vizhinjam Port: A Beacon of Progress
I am also delighted to highlight the recent developments at the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala. The arrival of the container ship “San Fernando” marks a significant milestone in the port’s journey, showcasing its readiness to handle large vessels and extensive logistics operations. This event underscores the port’s advanced facilities and its strategic importance in the region’s logistics network.
The Vizhinjam port, developed through years of dedication and overcoming numerous challenges, is now poised to become a key hub for maritime trade. Its progress is a testament to the port’s growing operational efficiency and potential to significantly boost Kerala’s trade and commerce.
Reaching for the Stars – CSS @Kerala Cricket League
I am excited to share that CSS has secured one of the six franchises in the upcoming T20 Kerala Cricket League. As part of this prestigious event organized by the Kerala Cricket Association, our team will join hands with other prominent players in the league. Cricket, like CSS, embodies the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and excellence—qualities that are deeply ingrained in our DNA. We look forward to cheering our team and encouraging the emergence of fresh talent.
Celebrating Onam at CSS
As we look forward to the festival of Onam, let us embrace the spirit of unity and prosperity it symbolizes. At CSS, Onam is a time for celebration, and as always, CSS has planned a series of events and activities.
I want to end with a quote from the book, “Discover Your True North” by Bill George, “Your True North is the internal compass that guides you successfully through life. It represents who you are as a human being at your deepest level.”
As we work together, we will grow, support each other, and achieve great things.