Name: James Callens

Title: Data Manager

Organisation: Mount Sinai Hospital - Icahn School of Medicine

Expert in helping organizations to solve issues, create value, maximize sales and growth, improve business performance and improve profitability using Business Process Transformation. Provide objective advice and help an organisation to develop any specialist skills that it may be lacking. I have worked for Yasmin Hurd in her research lab for about 9 years. I worked my way up to senior technician and data manger in her addiction neuroscience research lab located at Mount Sinai Hospital on the upper east side of Manhattan, NY, USA.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope James's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

The most formidable challenge I've encountered as a leader is the ongoing journey of self-discovery, particularly in the realm of emotional intelligence. Recognizing the importance of understanding oneself and being adept at regulating emotions has proven crucial. I often liken it to tending to a pot of water on the stove, constantly vigilant to prevent it from boiling over. Maintaining clarity in judgment and leadership requires a continual awareness and management of one's own thoughts and emotions, and, cognizant of other’s emotions.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

Honestly, leadership was not a role I initially envisioned for myself; rather, I stumbled into it organically. Across various roles in fast food, restaurants, and scientific research, I consistently dedicated myself to hard work. Through mutual respect with colleagues and a commitment to excellence, I naturally progressed into higher positions.

When presented with opportunities for growth, I proactively sought elevated titles and increased responsibilities. If met with resistance, I went above and beyond to demonstrate my worth. Today, I find myself among the senior team at Yasmin Hurd's prestigious research lab.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

My days generally follow a structured routine, although the nature of my work keeps each day dynamic. Rising at 7 am, I begin with a morning walk for my dogs. After preparing for work, I embark on my hour-long subway journey from Brooklyn to Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan by 9 am. As the data manager and senior technician in an addiction neuroscience research lab, my tasks range from coding for automated data analysis to addressing lab-related issues.

I leave work at 5 pm, returning home around 6 pm. Evenings are reserved for quality time with my wife and two toy poodles, occasionally incorporating a short workout or a visit to the kung fu dojo. The day concludes with dinner, a movie or TV series, and preparations for the next day.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A recent and invaluable lesson is the importance of self-belief, commitment to personal passions, and the humility to acknowledge and learn from mistakes. In the realm of leadership, it's crucial to respect others, embrace differing opinions, and be vigilant against selfish tendencies. Each mistake and success, whether personal or within the team, contributes to a deeper understanding of oneself and those around us.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People" played a transformative role in my life. As a naturally shy individual, growing up in relative solitude, this book helped me break out of my shell. Contrary to the title, my goal was not to influence others but to understand human behavior and engage in meaningful conversations. The book provided essential insights, enabling me to feel more at ease around people, navigate social interactions with confidence.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

The best advice I can offer, building upon lessons learned, is to believe in oneself, respect both personal and others' journeys, persist in the face of failure, and be open to trying new paths. Life's purpose is a continual exploration, and the pursuit of happiness should guide decisions. Embrace failure as part of the journey, knowing that all great accomplishments demand time and effort.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

My leadership journey has been rich with meaningful experiences. One notable instance was supporting my now-wife during a challenging time. Early in our relationship, her sister faced a severe accident, and the family contemplated removing life support. Drawing on my neuroscience background, I researched extensively and advised against it. Within weeks, her sister emerged from a coma, defying initial expectations. The episode taught me the importance of resilience, standing firm in one's beliefs, and challenging perceptions – both in leadership and in life.