Title: From extrospection to introspection: the Shrimad Bhagwad Gita-based framework for planetizens during VUCA times

Authors: J.K. Sharma; Arun Kumar Agariya

Addresses: Jagsonpal Pharmaceuticals Limited, New Delhi, India ' Department of Management, Atal Bihari Vajpayee-Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management, Gwalior (MP) – 474015, India

Abstract: Scholarly literature is available on the utility of Shrimad Bhagwad Gita in leadership and managerial effectiveness. Workplace spirituality has also been addressed. However, there is a paucity of literature on Shrimad Bhagwad Gita as a source of knowledge to shift the focus from extrospection - the outwardly crusade; to the realm of self, i.e., introspection - the inwardly expedition. In a nutshell, self-management may be more important than the self-directed behaviour. It may be recognised as an important utility of Shrimad Bhagwad Gita in a world which seems to be in the quest of demonstrating superiority. While the conventional wars are observable, economic and cyber wars are also palpable. People are yearning for peace in the face of volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA). Utilising the methodology of hermeneutics, a conceptual framework has been presented with the following implications: 1) enhanced self-awareness; 2) better self-management; 3) stress-free performance; 4) perennial happiness.

Keywords: Shrimad Bhagwad Gita; introspection; extrospection; VUCA; ethics; business ethics; morality; values; leadership; self-awareness; self-management; happiness; virtuosity; empathy; compassion.

DOI: 10.1504/IJICBM.2024.136595

International Journal of Indian Culture and Business Management, 2024 Vol.31 No.1, pp.76 - 105

Received: 23 Mar 2022
Accepted: 24 Jul 2022
Published online: 08 Feb 2024 *

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