One of the aesthetic principles of Zen philosophy – Kanso, is one of the most effective principles in leadership communication. The principle emphasizes on expression in a simplified and clear manner that can articulate effectively. The underlying principle of this concept is to eliminate what doesn't matter to make more room for what does. The same applies in leadership communication as well. Let us evaluate this concept in four easy steps.

Last week a wave hit the largest social networking websites of the world. A simple and unprepared underdog went toe to toe with the best in industry. Ello scaled the walls of the social networking media causing a major concern in the stock market. Within hours, thousands were trying out ello with a vengeance rather than curiosity. 

Yes, ello is a fascinating alternative to take social interactions forward. It was just a few years ago when Google came up with its own version of Facebook. The reaction was not as welcoming as ello received. Facebook came up as a user friendly, efficient solution to maintain social interaction on an online platform. The core values or credos of Facebook were that it was free and democratic. World welcomed a novel idea. Facebook became the face of democracy beyond barriers. Empowered by the user generated content and the user experience quality the networking media thrived and flourished into social and human interactions. It flourished into social interactions in a way that it became the online alter ego of individuals as well as business. Then Facebook had an agenda in their roadmap - maximize their revenue. Facebook did one of the most controversial steps at this juncture. They controlled their viral reach and made it a harvesting mechanism. This was a direct assault upon those opinion leaders, business, people who used Facebook for social interactions and most importantly upon social cognition that was a belief that Facebook is free. 

The success of ello was that they could articulate and address the concern that was in the back of the minds of each individual. We knew the truth but we ignored it until ello articulated it. We are well aware of the fact that our social networks are infested by advertisers but we liked to believe that it is free. However now we are given a choice while we are reminded about the ordeal we are going through each day. The ordeal that every post we share, and every friend we make and every link we follow is tracked, recorded and converted into data and sold to the highest bidder. Then our cognition is reminded of values that Facebook and Google preach each moment but that never remain in their actions anymore - Audacity. The initial idea behind social networks was as a tool for empowerment and never a tool to deceive, coerce and manipulate — but a place to connect, create and celebrate life. In all the years of their public relation stunts, corporate entities were seldom able to coin such a message that directly targeted the social psyche. Yes, it is the truth, it is a wakeup call and it is a call for action with a definite solution. The reaction was imminent. Yes, that is the end of the first phase. 

If ello wants to be the next social networking phenomenon, it needs to plan and focus upon the next phases of social assimilation, user experience and community empowerment. Or else it will be a dormant community of rebels just like many other social innovations turned out to be. Round one is over and ello did dominate. But if ello wants to live another round through, it needs to muster its marketing strategies and credos to rival some of the best minds money can buy. In the world of business possibilities are endless. And the world is watching out for Round 2.

Perceive that which cannot be seen with the eye. 

~ Miyamoto Musashi

We live in a world of ideas, passions and dreams. Taught at an early age that we could be whoever we want to be – astronauts, musicians, scientists, pilots, actors and the list goes on, we live in a world designed by visions and illusions. But what does it take to mold a thought into an idea and then to convert it into a story of success. Especially if photography is your passion and working as a photographer is your dream. I had a passion, a passion to capture moments that I felt special. It was my hobby but the fact is you never know until you know your limits. In my case the first goal I had was get my works published. I published my first article accompanied by a photograph that I had clicked. Yes, double whammy. What I believe is that it matters how we communicate our vision and then translate it into obtainable goals.

Photography is the art of discovering meanings from light and shadows. And among the genres of photography, fitness photography stands apart as one of the most artistically charged categories ever. Though photography is considered as a solo profession with occasional bouts with loneliness, fitness photography consists of working with a team. It is one of those genres of photography that requires expertized knowledge, management skills and rigorous attention to detail to achieve results. Fitness photography involves detailed juxtaposition of human anatomy through posing routines, effective use of light, aesthetic representation of human body and choreographing the theme to focus on physique through various perspectives. 

My initiation to fitness photography came after my fourth year as a photographer, including two years of specific training and learning posing routines. Knowledge of posing routines and anatomy is beneficial, if one has to choreograph a successful project. In most cases it is not the achievements on the stage but the presentation, media relations and public relations that will fetch the athletes with the best contracts and sponsorships. And the photographs play an important role in this aspect. To any fitness photographer, gym is the studio or an extension of a studio. A deep understanding of how the machines or weights will highlight each muscle group is pivotal. I had been working out for over 12 years and had the opportunity to work out with some of the best athletes in the world. Apart from knowledge about the muscle groups and anatomy, it helped me to imbibe the work ethics from the world of fitness into my craft. And the prime reason why every other photographer cannot step into the shoes of a fitness photographer is because fitness photography would not work by reference shots alone. Each individual’s physique is aesthetically different. No two individuals have the exact same pectorals or calves. So while coming up with a plan of action for a shoot, it should be tailored to fit the requirements of the athlete or the plan of action for a specific publicity program. 

In most shoots the set tasks of the photographer is limited to that of action behind the lens, lighting and post production. This is where skilled fitness photographers are worth their fee. They can be instrumental in planning a diet plan for the set specific results or guide the athlete with those shortcomings in their physique that requires improvements. In most cases a model release or a contract clause will be used to safeguard the commercial interests of the model and the photographer specifying the intellectual rights for the images and final ownership rights for the images. A good fitness photographer can be looked up to as a mentor in the world of fitness and bodybuilding. The role of photographs in the bodybuilding industry is penultimate, indeed it was through photographs and documentaries that bodybuilding received the big opening into the popular culture. Fitness photographers are popular with athletes and clients because of one more reason - Work ethics. The ethics and principles followed by successful fitness photographers are as disciplined as the fitness routines of the athletes or bodybuilders they work with, underlining the fact that the backbone of any business is the respect towards the business.

There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, 

hard work, and learning from failure. 

~ Colin Powell

Toughest and most enjoyable part of being a photographer or promoter or a manager is the part where you travel. However a step gone wrong can make it all turn into a nightmare. Indeed travelling smart is like a chess game. Once you get the hang of it there is no experience as pleasant as travelling and seeing the world around. I had been travelling for quite a few years and covered different cities. Long queues in airports, waiting around luggage belts, chasing trains and tickets have taught me enough to share a tip or two. Yes, growing old has its benefits. You end up sharing a lot of tales and experiences as you keep travelling. Here it goes.

The Right Bag and baggage

If you have a destination then chances are high that you will have a bag too. The first step to travel smart is nothing but finding the right bag. The bag must not only be spacious but must also suit your purpose. I tend to stay away from flamboyant bags and distracting colours. In most cases it is a great option to blend with the crowd than to stand apart. When you choose a bag, I suggest you to choose on a utilitarian basis. Usually I stick with a single bag policy unless it is extremely necessary to carry a second one. More bags you have, slower and dependent you become. I do a security and safety check on my bags before I load it up. 

Ground Report

World is such a small place and it won't be hard enough to find a friend in most cities. Have a casual conversation and make sure that you learn about the climate, political situation and festivals if any. Landing in midst of a riot during a rainy day would be the last thing anyone ever want. Knowing the weather also lets you choose your wardrobe and gadgets. What to wear and how to organize your schedule is extremely important if you are on a business trip. A point of contact in an unknown city is essential if you can afford one. Travelling alone is indeed risky and a wise traveler always seeks to minimize the risks. One of them if the fact that there is nothing that is free in a journey. Everything has its price. So always steer clear of shortcuts and baits. Apart from the point of contact, I carry details of embassies, police and specific landmarks. This benefits on a safety front in case of a crisis or an emergency.

Shoes

Utility and comfort - That's all you need to confirm when you pack the shoes to fit in to your journey. An ideal pair of shoes will never slow you down, lets you travel with ease and offers ample protection for your legs. Make sure you pick the right shoes for the weather and terrain. Most of us are not lucky enough to book a car or rent a car upon arrival. And till you find one, your shoes and wallet are your best friends. 

Space Management

What you carry will carry you. Seasoned travelers organize and classify their luggage based on priorities. Those stuff that requires to be taken out often remains on the top and organized. Money will be distributed at various spots so that, the risk from being pick pocketed is minimized. Make sure to get enough padding for any thing that is fragile. Packing smart, saves time and effort. Yes, taxi drivers, guides and a few criminal elements can understand a lot about you just by the way you handle your luggage. At times it would be wise to carry a second bag so as to distribute the weight and it prevents you from buying a second bag in middle of a holiday. 

Security & Precautions

Make sure research is done on the culture, security, economy and political situations. Avoid a fight at all times at all costs unless it threatens your existence. Your aim is to travel safe and stick to it. Have contacts and important documents stored in a USB drive. It never hurts to spare a few space for first aid and a few essential gadgets. Map your travel and check twice about your plan of action, stay, food and water. It is a great idea to stick to basic food that your body is accustomed to. A thumb rule is to know the ingredients before you order your meal and to order your meals from recognized restaurants.  

Master plan and backup plan

Life can never be planned but it is still a great idea to have a general understanding of what to expect. Plan your journey, anticipate schedules and add buffer time so as to save yourself from unnecessary tangles. Always have a back up plan or two and points of contacts if you need a helping hand. Learn a few phrases from the language used regionally. Use your cell phone wisely. Most people do give out a lot of information to the bystanders while they make calls. Technology surround us, make the best use of google maps. Avoid blindly following travel websites since most of the searchable ones are promoted through SEO and information could be biased.  

Finally let me come to the most important part of any journey. No journey is a waste of time. Some may be a success and others may be a disaster. No matter what the outcome is, they teach you something new. Each journey will make you more younger and wiser. Travel is necessary to add new dimensions and perspectives into life. Happy journey!