Lost Connections : How to Keep Project Managers Engaged

This year I read Johann Hari’s book Lost Connections. The book provides invaluable insight into environmental and clinical causes of depression. In Lost Connections : How to Keep Project Managers Engaged I parallel Hari’s disconnections to Programs and Projects and provide my $.02 on how I believe we can stay connected or reconnect with meaningful work.

I highly recommend this book for anyone that’s been down, diagnosed with depression or knows someone who has. The research is revealing and eye opening and the stories of reconnection and very inspirational.

Purchase a hard copy or audio version of the book at https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Connections-Uncovering-Depression-Unexpected/dp/163286830X (not affiliate link)

LISTEN HERE

Harri’s Disconnections & Reconnections

Disconnection from meaningful work
- Do something you love
Disconnection from other people
- Be around other people
Disconnection from meaningful values
- Minimize materialism
Disconnection from childhood trauma
- Obesity is the smoke, not the fire
Disconnection from status and respect
- Consider a meditation practice
Disconnection from the natural world
- Take time out of cities
Disconnection from a hopeful future
- Universal basic income
Genetic predisposition
- Majority is not genetic
Physical brain changes
- We have neuroplasticity

My $.02 on PM Reconnections

PM work doesn’t feel meaningful
- Picture the successful result
PM disconnected from others
- Make a connection / build relationships
PM stuck in by the book mode
- Value people over process
Negative impact from past projects
- Work through team disengagement
PMs leading matrixed teams
- Remember we GET to lead teams
PMs stuck at their desk
- Eat lunch outside / Go for a walk
Moving project to project
- Recieve / provide clear leader’s intent
PMs influenced by their environment
- Majority of PM style is their own
PMs evolving over time
- Vary style to fit the project and team

Thank you for taking the time to read this post and listen to the episode Lost Connections – A Project Manager’s Guide to Reconnecting With Our Work.

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Kevin Pannell, PMP | Founder of KPannell Productions, LLC | Creator & Host of the KEV Talks Podcast | Principal on the @Pannell5Fit and KEV Talks YouTube Channels