Swati Mohan, the esteemed Senior Products Delivery Analyst at NatWest Group and Technology Advisory Board Member at Woxsen University, recently shared a thought-provoking post on LinkedIn that challenges conventional notions about change and growth. In her reflective piece, Swati urges us to consider subtraction as a powerful catalyst for positive transformations in our lives, emphasizing the significance of letting go and simplifying amidst the desire for continuous addition.
As Swati Mohan eloquently observes, the instinctive response when contemplating change and growth is often to consider what more can be added—more goals, more opportunities, more achievements. The positivity associated with addition is undeniable, but Swati introduces a profound shift in perspective by posing thought-provoking questions: What can be subtracted? What can be taken away? What can we say NO to? What can we let go of? These questions open a door to the often-overlooked realm of subtraction as a means of refining and enhancing various aspects of our lives.
In her post, Swati references Leidy Klotz, highlighting the idea that true perfection is not achieved when there is nothing left to add, but rather when there is nothing left to take away. This powerful statement encourages a mindset that values simplicity, clarity, and efficiency. The implication is clear—subtraction, often sidelined in our pursuit of more, holds the key to achieving a state of refined perfection in our personal and professional endeavors.
Swati Mohan’s encouragement for the new year is a departure from the typical resolutions centered around additions and acquisitions. Instead, she prompts us to introspect and consider what aspects of our lives, careers, and ambitions could benefit from subtraction. The wisdom embedded in Lao Tzu’s words, as quoted by Swati, adds depth to this perspective: “To attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, remove things every day.” The distinction between knowledge and wisdom underscores the transformative power of subtraction in achieving a more profound understanding of ourselves and our goals.
The post invokes a sense of balance, presenting both positive and negative statements to create a holistic narrative. The positive lies in the encouragement to embrace subtraction as a force for positive change. Swati Mohan challenges the conventional narrative by emphasizing the value of simplification and release in our journey toward personal and professional growth. On the flip side, the negative undertone acknowledges the tendency to overlook the potency of subtraction in our pursuit of more. This acknowledgment prompts introspection, urging us to reconsider our habitual inclination towards constant addition.
Powerful words such as “encouragement,” “wisdom,” and “transformation” infuse Swati’s message with an undeniable strength. The power of these words resonates throughout the narrative, reinforcing the idea that embracing subtraction is not a mere act of removal but a transformative journey toward a more refined and purposeful existence.
Swati Mohan’s profound wisdom challenges the status quo, urging us to reconsider our habitual pursuit of more. The narrative weaves positive encouragement with introspective undertones, fostering a balanced perspective on growth. Swati’s emphasis on subtraction as a transformative force prompts a paradigm shift, inviting us to let go, simplify, and attain a refined perfection that transcends the mere accumulation of goals. It’s a powerful call to embrace the often-overlooked beauty of subtraction in our journey towards self-discovery and fulfillment.
In conclusion, Swati Mohan’s LinkedIn post serves as a guidepost for those seeking meaningful change in 2024. Her wisdom challenges us to break free from the cycle of continuous addition and explore the untapped potential of subtraction. Through her insights, Swati encourages us to embark on a journey of simplification, decluttering our lives, and making room for true growth. As we navigate the complexities of the new year, Swati Mohan’s perspective offers a refreshing and empowering approach to personal and professional evolution—through the art of subtraction.
