Rensel Consulting: The Uncarved Block
Nov 25, 2024
For the past month or so, We’ve been participating in a program sponsored by the Penn State Alumni Association Lion Link. Lion Link created an experience that focused on linking Penn State alumni with recent or soon-to-be graduates to gain real-world experience on actual projects. We had the pleasure of interviewing and hiring Willie Thier and Sheetal Patangay to help us rethink our website (yes, the red is going away!). Today, they led a charette to convert recent peer interviews into the basis for design…
We held our workshop at Fathom Studio (https://fathomstudio.com/) in Mechanicsburg, PA. Thanks to Fathom Studio owner Jason Smith for taking time from his busy schedule to give these young professionals some advice and feedback on their progress.
Willie and Sheetal interviewed five people to understand how others viewed my brand. During our workshop, they presented the synthesis of information they created from the interviews regarding strengths, values, weaknesses, and opportunities. It is very humbling to sit through a session like that, as seen through the eyes of others. Willie and Sheetal did a fantastic job of summarizing the information into what will become a redesigned website.
This workshop took place at an interesting time and helped me re-center by connecting me to some of the work I am currently doing. For one of my projects, I am helping coach a team of professionals to become a high-functioning team, and we are reading the Tao of Pooh. This book was initially introduced to me by a supervisor several years ago. As much as it is helpful for this team, rereading it as a small business owner trying to figure out brand and brand message, I am enjoying it in a new way. One of the early discussions by the book's author, Benjamin Hoff, is applying the Taoist concept of the uncarved block:
Simplicity is Strength
The uncarved block symbolizes a pure, uncomplicated state, free of artificial constructs or overthinking. It aligns with the natural way of being (Tao).
Authenticity Matters
You can achieve harmony and flow in life by staying true to your original nature and avoiding unnecessary complexity.
Childlike Wonder
The uncarved block often parallels the openness and simplicity of a child’s mind, which is free of preconceptions and rich in possibilities.
Effortless Effectiveness
Like the uncarved block, when people stop overanalyzing or forcing things, they align with the natural rhythm of life and become more effective.
Potential Over Limitation
The block has limitless potential until it is shaped or carved. Similarly, when we embrace our authentic selves and avoid being overly influenced by external expectations, we remain full of potential.
At this time of year, as we head into the US and worldwide holidays, we should all embrace the idea of the uncarved block. It will likely make us better professionals and better people overall.
To learn more about Willie - https://williethier.notion.site/
To learn more about Sheetal - https://github.com/Patangaysheetal
