The SHINE Series features individuals who I meet on my travels or through my network who inspires me through their mindset, actions and/ or heart to flourish.
When I started my company Dream Catalyst, I choose to view other trainers, facilitators and coaches as possible collaborators instead of competition. A few years on, I met Kathir and we connected right from our first conversation over kaya toast (toast with coconut jam) and coffee. We collaborated on multiple projects together and it was always magically joyous with impactful outcomes. We so enjoyed the co-creating journey that in 2019, we synergised our businesses and today, I am the Managing Partner for Positive Performance Consulting. Besides being energised by his beautiful presence, I am also intrigued by his multi roles across a wide spectrum; from Learning & Development facilitator to Mindfulness Teacher to Metal Musician just to name a few. It gives me great joy to showcase his story.
Dr. Kathirasan K – Founder of Positive Performance Consulting, Centre for Mindfulness and Member of Heavy Metal Band Rudra
Photo credit: David Ash
When asked to pick a music title that best describe his present life journey, Kathir chose Man in the Mirror performed by Michael Jackson especially the line: “If you wanna make the world a better place take a look at yourself and then make a change.” It not surprising why he does what he does and enjoys what he do. Here is his story.
What are the different hats that you currently wear, could you share more about each role?
Certainly, I wear multiple hats in my professional life. Firstly, I serve as one of the Founding Partners at Positive Performance Consulting. Simultaneously, I hold the role of Founder CEO at the Centre for Mindfulness. Additionally, I contribute as a board member at the Centre for Interfaith Understanding. Beyond my professional pursuits, I’m a member of the heavy metal band, Rudra. These roles span a wide spectrum, demanding various skill sets. As a musician, I tap into my artistic abilities. In my role as a consultant, I apply my problem-solving skills. As a CEO, I exercise my leadership capabilities, and my community work allows me to bring sensitivity and empathy to the forefront.
What does each role gift you with and how do you complement them so effortlessly and beautifully?
I believe that at the core, I am fundamentally a human being who takes on various roles rather than having multiple distinct personalities. Maintaining this fundamental perspective as I navigate these roles provides me with a profound sense of grounding. I see my humanity as a unifying thread that weaves through all the roles I play. This perspective is instrumental in preventing me from becoming engulfed by any particular role. Instead, it allows me to view them as interconnected facets of my life rather than isolated compartments. This holistic approach ensures that I don’t lose sight of my humanity in the midst of these roles, fostering a more integrated and authentic way of embodying each one.
Are there challenges, if any, in wearing the multi-hats?
Yes, at times when the demands of each roles gets heavy, I face challenges managing each of its deliverable. But in spite of it, I enjoy what I do.
What daily habits do you use to help you succeed?
Certainly, my typical workday begins with a dedicated mindfulness practice. This practice is integral to establishing a focused and centred mindset that I carry throughout the day. It helps me cultivate the clarity and presence necessary for effective decision-making and leadership. Once I’ve completed my mindfulness routine, I move on to the practical aspects of my day. I start by reviewing my calendar and meticulously assessing my schedule. This initial step allows me to gain a comprehensive understanding of the day ahead. The next crucial phase involves prioritisation. I categorise my tasks into two broad categories: strategic and tactical goals. The strategic goals are the larger, overarching objectives that align with my long-term vision. On the other hand, the tactical goals are the day-to-day activities that contribute to the realisation of these strategic objectives. These could include team meetings, project updates, or addressing immediate challenges. Prioritising between these two categories is essential to ensure that I’m not just busy, but also productive. This structured approach to my mornings lays a strong foundation for the rest of the day. It allows me to strike a balance between visionary thinking and the practical execution needed for me to be stay intentional.
Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently?
I have no desire to alter my past in any manner. Instead, I aim to extract valuable lessons from my past experiences to shape my future, right here and now. This profound acceptance of my past empowers me to remain fully present, always recognising that I am complete, and my existence remains whole at any given moment. This sense of wholeness serves as the foundation from which I envision and strategise for my future without dwelling on past regrets or mistakes. It liberates me from the burden of rumination and allows me to approach the future with clarity and optimism.
How did you persevere through the tough times?
I would describe myself as fundamentally a philosopher. This self-perception serves as a guiding light, especially during challenging periods. Instead of immediately seeking coping mechanisms and solutions when faced with adversity, I have a distinct approach. I break down the concept of ‘tough times’ and examine how it manifests within my own self. By scrutinising the impact of these challenging moments and its corresponding effects on my body, senses, and mind, I engage in a process of deconstruction. Through this introspective journey, I come to the realisation that I am, in fact, an observer of these phenomena. This perspective shift enables me to distance myself from the immediate turbulence of difficult situations and view them from a more detached and philosophical standpoint.
What would you like to achieve next?
Upon pondering your question, I must honestly admit that nothing specific springs to mind. I’ve never truly considered myself an achiever, perhaps because the term “achievement” seems rather grandiose in my perspective. Instead, my primary aspiration is to maintain a continuous sense of happiness in every passing moment.
What may be one or two memorable experiences you’ve had while running your business?
I have a vivid memory of a concert my band performed in New York back in 2007. During the event, a gentleman entered the venue and approached the organiser, expressing his desire to meet with our band. Naturally, we were more than happy to oblige, and we had the chance to speak with him. He conveyed his gratitude to us for serving as a source of inspiration for his Ph.D. studies in the U.S., particularly in the field of Indian Philosophy. This experience left us deeply humbled and touched. For me, it served as a testament to the idea that I can be a meaningful contributor to the wellbeing and intellectual growth of others.
Any favourite quote that inspire you to keep going?
I find this quote by Gandhi very inspiring: “All the tendencies present in the outer world are to be found in the world of our body. If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change.”