10 Resilience Habits to Elevate Your Career in Management

Resilience has become a widely discussed topic. This article explores 10 resilience habits to elevate your career in management, based on a publication in The European Business Review, offering insights for individuals and professionals alike. It’s often touted as a key trait for navigating life’s challenges, especially in today’s fast-paced and uncertain world.

In the face of a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world, resilient individuals are better equipped to weather storms, innovate under constraints, and find ways to thrive amid uncertainty.

Building resilience is about more than reacting to crises. It requires a proactive approach to cultivating the skills, mindsets, and strategies that help individuals thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

10 Resilience Habits to Elevate Your Career in Management

Through research and coaching practices, the authors have identified 10 resilience habits to elevate your career in management, providing a roadmap for building strength and adaptability. These habits are not innate traits but learned behaviors that can be cultivated through deliberate practice:

1. Finding Meaning and Purpose

Resilient people derive a sense of purpose from their experiences, transforming adversity into opportunities for growth. This mindset provides direction and motivation, even in the most challenging circumstances.

2. Commitment to Continuous Learning

A growth mindset drives resilient individuals. They actively seek opportunities to develop new skills and expand their knowledge, viewing challenges as catalysts for personal growth.

3. Adopting a Balanced Cognitive Attitude

Resilient people embrace a mindset encapsulated by the phrase, “I’ll do my best, and what will be, will be.” This balance of effort and acceptance allows them to face uncertainty with grace.

4. Prioritizing Their Biological Clock

Instead of adhering to societal schedules, resilient individuals align their activities with their natural rhythms, optimizing energy and productivity.

5. Creating Time for Deep Thinking

Resilient individuals allocate uninterrupted time for reflection and decision-making, enabling thoughtful responses to complex challenges.

6. Approaching Tasks with Passion and Curiosity

Their intrinsic motivation stems from genuine interest and enthusiasm, fueling perseverance and innovation.

7. Programming Positive Experiences

Resilient people proactively incorporate activities that bring them joy and energy, ensuring these moments are varied and meaningful.

8. Engaging in Physical and Mental Exercises

Genuine relationships provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, crucial for navigating life’s ups and downs.

9. Building Authentic Social Connections

Regular physical activity and practices like mindfulness or yoga enhance resilience by supporting mental and physical health.

10. Maintaining Healthy Lifestyle Practices

Balanced nutrition, consistent eating habits, and proper sleep hygiene form the cornerstone of resilience

Tools for Measuring and Enhancing Resilience

Professionals can use tools like the Dolan Web of Resilient Habits (DWRH). Such tools provide structured frameworks for identifying strengths and areas for improvement, empowering individuals to build resilience strategically. In the original article, several methods are presented to explore and assess your level of resilience. We invite you to dive into these methods and discover actionable insights to enhance your own resilience.

Conclusion

Resilience is not a fixed trait. By focusing on these ten core habits , wellness professionals can equip their clients with the tools to navigate life’s challenges and thrive in a complex world.

As we continue to explore the nuances of resilience, let’s move beyond the buzzword and focus on actionable strategies that foster genuine growth and well-being.

If you’re looking for an official master’s degree in Madrid with an international perspective, explore our programs in International ManagementFinance, and Talent Management (HR) today and start shaping your future with Advantere.

The original article was written by Pedro César Martínez Morán, Director of the Master in Talent Management (HR) at Advantere; Simon Dolan, Professor in the Master’s Program and Expert in Organizational Development; Miriam Die Pinol, Secretary Executive Board and Research Project Coordinator at Global Future of Work Foundation and Anat Garti, Psychologist.


Leadership Talks: Sandra Manresa’s Journey

In Leadership Talks, Sandra Manresa, New Business & Partnership Director at Banco Santander, shared her inspiring leadership journey. Her career, marked by adaptability, authenticity, and compassion, offers valuable lessons for future leaders.

Finding the Right Path: Sandra Manresa’s Journey

Sandra began her talk by discussing a challenge many face: finding the right career path. She explained how she explored different industries to discover her strengths and passions.

“Only a small percentage know their path early on,” she said, encouraging students to stay curious and see every step as a chance to learn. This adaptability became a key part of her leadership style.

Early Leadership Lessons: Sandra Manresa’s Journey

Sandra’s first leadership role was at Yellow Pages, where she managed a team of 15 during a digital transformation. Initially, she adopted a “buddy-style” approach but soon realized that accountability and constructive feedback were essential for growth.

“At first, you want your team to like you, but knowing how to give feedback is a gift,” Sandra shared. Her experience shows how adaptability and honesty shape effective leaders.

Authentic Leadership in Action

While at El Corte Inglés, Sandra tackled the challenge of managing a multi-generational team and repositioning the brand for younger audiences. She embraced authenticity and inclusivity, using curiosity and humility to lead her team.

“They said I didn’t have ‘leader presence’ because I wasn’t aggressive. But staying true to myself paid off,” Sandra explained. Her story highlights how being authentic builds trust and delivers results.

Compassionate Leadership at Google

At Google, Sandra faced resistance to her leadership style. By practicing compassionate leadership, she focused on understanding her team’s goals and supporting them effectively.

She introduced the 7 Cs of Compassionate Leadership, a framework guiding her decisions:

  1. Contemplative – Reflecting for thoughtful decisions.
  2. Curious – Exploring ideas to foster openness.
  3. Confident – Leading with clarity to inspire trust.
  4. Compassionate – Prioritizing team well-being.
  5. Collaborative – Promoting teamwork for shared goals.
  6. Civil – Using respect and kindness.
  7. Courageous – Standing by values and admitting mistakes.

These principles illustrate how compassion drives both human connection and business success.

Why Leadership Matters Today

In this video, Sandra shares her thoughts on leadership today, emphasizing authenticity and compassion. She also provides actionable advice for aspiring leaders.

What Are Leadership Talks?

Leadership Talks are exclusive Advantere sessions where leaders like Sandra Manresa inspire students through their stories. These events align with Advantere’s values: authenticity, innovation, and impact.

By sharing these insights, Leadership Talks prepare students to navigate challenges and create meaningful change.

If you’re looking for an official master’s degree in Madrid with an international perspective, explore our programs in International ManagementFinance, and Talent Management (HR) today and start shaping your future with Advantere.


alex roca kenjy alcas

Advantere’s Leadership Talk with Álex Roca

Advantere’s Leadership Talk with Álex Roca brought together an inspiring story of resilience and connection. Advantere’s latest Leadership Talk featured Álex Roca, a global symbol of perseverance and positivity. For Kenjy, who also lives with cerebral palsy, attending Álex’s talk was a dream come true. He attended the event with his best friend, María, a psychology student, who has shared years of meaningful friendship with Kenjy. Together, they reflect on the impact of Álex’s journey and the power of friendship in challenging societal biases.

Kenjy: A Journey of Learning and Purpose

“I was born in Colombia. Right after birth, I suffered four cardiac arrests, and doctors said I would be bedridden for life,” recalls Kenjy. “My mother worked tirelessly to help me grow.” His family relocated to Spain after an earthquake in Colombia, and since then, Kenjy has achieved many things, defying the medical predictions. He has completed administrative studies, a master’s in digital marketing, and several certifications, driven by an unstoppable thirst for knowledge.

Kenjy sees Álex Roca’s story as a mirror of his own. “I wrote an article about him on the ASPACE Madrid blog, and I wanted to meet him,” Kenjy says. “When María told me about his talk, I almost couldn’t believe it.” At the talk, Kenjy felt an immediate connection: “I had chills… I felt so connected to his story.” Kenjy even overcame his shyness to ask Álex a question in person, with María’s support.

Kenjy has a message for those facing similar challenges: “People tell you what you can’t do, but I’ve proven them wrong. I keep learning and striving. Although communication is challenging, technology helps me push through.”

Inspired by Álex, Kenjy now dreams of giving talks with María to share a message of inclusion. “We want people to see others for who they are inside, not just their disabilities.”

María’s Perspective on Friendship and Support

María, a psychology student at Comillas, met Kenjy through volunteer work. She had never interacted with someone with a disability before, and her friendship with Kenjy was initially eye-opening. Over time, they formed a bond beyond the activities they shared at the foundation where they met.

For María, attending Álex Roca’s Leadership Talk with Kenjy was equally moving. “Álex’s story and the support from his wife, Mari Carme Maza, were truly inspiring,” she says. “They showed me that real connection goes beyond physical limitations.”

Reflecting on their friendship, María explains, “We understand each other deeply. He has always seen me as a friend, not as a helper. It’s unfortunate how often people view our friendship as ‘unusual.’”

A Call for Inclusion

For both Kenjy and María, their shared story challenges social perceptions around disability. “Prejudices are in people’s minds,” says Kenjy. María agrees, “The best way to teach empathy is by example.”

Meeting Álex Roca was not only a special moment for them but also strengthened their commitment to promoting inclusion and respect. In a society that has a lot to learn about valuing people beyond their circumstances, they see their friendship as a real-life example of how kindness and understanding can bridge any gap.

Advantere’s Leadership Talks

This inspiring event marked the beginning of Advantere’s Leadership Talks series. Through these events, Advantere brings together leaders from different fields to share life experiences and discuss new forms of leadership. With his humor and positivity, Álex Roca challenged stereotypes and inspired the audience to rethink limitations placed on people with disabilities.

The experience also reinforced Kenjy and María’s commitment to spreading a similar message: authentic leadership values people for who they truly are. “We focus on cultivating empathy and teaching students to lead with purpose,” says Consuelo Benito, Advantere’s Director of Sustainability and Social Impact.

If you’re looking for an official master’s degree in Madrid with an international perspective, explore our programs in International ManagementFinance, and Talent Management (HR) today and start shaping your future with Advantere.


alex roca kenjy alcas

Inspiración y Amistad en el Leadership Talk de Advantere con Álex Roca

El pasado evento Leadership Talks en Advantere contó con la presencia de Álex Roca, un símbolo de superación y motivación, cuyo mensaje ha llegado a miles de personas en todo el mundo. 

Entre los asistentes, estaba Kenjy, quien al igual que Álex, vive con parálisis cerebral y ha sido un seguidor de su historia. Para Kenjy, la oportunidad de ver a su ídolo en persona fue un sueño hecho realidad, compartido con su mejor amiga, María. 

En esta entrevista, Kenjy y María reflexionan sobre la importancia de su amistad, sus experiencias de vida y su compromiso por desafiar las barreras sociales y de comunicación.

Kenjy: Una Trayectoria de Aprendizaje y Propósito

“Nací en Colombia. Al nacer, me dieron cuatro paros cardíacos y los médicos decían que iba a estar postrado toda la vida,” cuenta Kenjy. “Mi madre con mucho esfuerzo y amor me ayudó a salir adelante.” Después de trasladarse a España debido a un terremoto, Kenjy ha seguido una trayectoria que desafía los pronósticos médicos. Ha completado estudios en administración, un máster en marketing digital y varios cursos de formación, demostrando una incansable sed de aprendizaje.

La historia de Álex Roca es para Kenjy un reflejo de su propio camino. Kenjy escribió un artículo sobre él en el blog de ASPACE Madrid, y desde entonces, el deseo de conocerlo creció. “Cuando María me dijo que había una charla de él, casi me muero,” admite. Durante la charla, la conexión fue inmediata: “Tenía los pelos de punta… Me sentía muy identificado,” recuerda Kenjy, quien ya había prevenido a María de que le tocaría hablar en público, a pesar de su timidez, para hacerle llegar sus preguntas a Álex Roca.

Kenjy también comparte un mensaje para quienes enfrentan desafíos similares: “A estas personas les dicen lo que no pueden hacer, pero yo he callado muchas bocas. He estudiado, sigo formándome y no paro. Siempre estoy haciendo algo.” Aunque reconoce las barreras que enfrenta, especialmente en la comunicación, confía en su capacidad para superarlas, apoyándose en herramientas tecnológicas.

Inspirado por la charla de Álex, Kenjy tiene una meta: dar charlas junto a María para transmitir un mensaje de inclusión. “Quiero que la gente vea a las personas por su personalidad y su corazón, no por su discapacidad.” Él y María desean normalizar la amistad entre personas con y sin discapacidad.  

La Perspectiva de María Sobre la Amistad y el Apoyo

María, estudiante de psicología en Comillas, ha dedicado años al voluntariado, experiencia que la llevó a conocer a Kenjy en una fundación que trabaja con personas con parálisis cerebral. “Para mí fue un shock al principio; nunca había tenido contacto con la discapacidad,” comenta, recordando sus primeros encuentros con él. A lo largo de los años, lo que comenzó como una relación en actividades de la fundación evolucionó en una profunda amistad.

El momento de la charla con Álex Roca fue tan emocionante para María como para Kenjy. “Me emocioné muchísimo… La historia de Álex y el apoyo de su mujer, Mari Carme Maza, me inspiraron profundamente,” comenta María, quien vio en la pareja un ejemplo de compromiso.

María también destaca lo que significa su amistad con Kenjy en su vida y lo que ambos han aprendido juntos. “Nos escuchamos muy bien y nos entendemos. Yo siento que él siempre me ha visto como una amiga y no como una asistente.” La suya no es una amistad “normal” según los ojos de los demás, y comparte sus experiencias con las miradas y comentarios que reciben cuando están juntos en público. “La gente se sorprende de que tengamos una relación de amistad como cualquier otra,” dice, y añade que su propósito es ayudar a normalizar esta realidad. 

Una Llamada a la Inclusión

Tanto Kenjy como María tienen claro que su historia debe ser compartida para desafiar las percepciones y prejuicios sobre la discapacidad. “Los prejuicios están en la cabeza de la gente,” expresa Kenjy, mientras que María, con su dedicación a la inclusión, asegura: “La mejor manera de transmitir algo es dando ejemplo.” 

Para ellos, conocer a Álex Roca fue más que un momento emotivo: fue la reafirmación de que sus esfuerzos no son en vano y que su mensaje de inclusión es necesario en una sociedad que aún tiene mucho que aprender sobre cómo valorar a las personas por quienes son.

Kenjy además, ha compartido su experiencia en el mismo blog donde una vez escribió sobre él: Superación, lucha y amor: reflexiones tras conocer a Álex Roca.

Leadership Talks de Advantere

Este evento fue el primero de los Leadership Talks en Advantere, una serie de charlas que reúnen a líderes de distintos sectores para compartir sus experiencias de vida y reflexionar sobre nuevas formas de liderazgo. Álex Roca, con su actitud positiva y sentido del humor, rompió las barreras de los prejuicios y llevó al público a cuestionar las limitaciones impuestas a las personas con discapacidad.

Este encuentro no solo conmovió a los estudiantes, sino que también reafirmó en Kenjy y María su compromiso de transmitir un mensaje similar: un liderazgo auténtico que valora a las personas más allá de sus circunstancias.

En palabras de Consuelo Benito, directora de sostenibilidad e impacto de Advantere, “nos centramos en cultivar la empatía y enseñar a los estudiantes a liderar con propósito.”

Si estás buscando un máster oficial en Madrid con enfoque internacional, explora nuestros programas en International ManagementFinance, y Talent Management (HR) y eleva tu carrera en Advantere.


MIM vs. MBA: Key Differences and Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between a Master’s in International Management (MIM) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) can be challenging for prospective students. Both programs provide valuable skills and knowledge, but they are designed for different stages of a professional career. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences in the MIM vs. MBA debate, helping you decide which is the best path for your career goals.

What Is a MIM vs. MBA?

A Master’s in International Management (MIM) is designed for recent graduates or young professionals who have little to no work experience. It focuses on building foundational management skills with an emphasis on international business. MIM programs frequently have a global outlook, preparing students to work in diverse and multicultural environments. On the other hand, an MBA is aimed at professionals with work experience who are looking to advance their careers or move into leadership roles.

Key Characteristics of a MIM vs. MBA:

  • Target audience: MIM targets recent graduates or professionals with up to two years of work experience, while MBA programs attract professionals with at least three to five years of experience.
  • Focus: MIM focuses on general management and international business, whereas MBA programs emphasize strategic leadership and advanced business concepts.
  • Duration: Both programs typically last one to two years.
  • Career opportunities: MIM graduates typically enter entry-level management roles, while MBA graduates move into senior management or executive positions.

MIM vs. MBA: Key Differences

Here are some key differences to consider in the MIM vs. MBA decision:

  1. Work Experience:
    • MIM programs are designed for those with little or no work experience.
    • MBA programs require several years of work experience, attracting mid-career professionals.
  2. Focus and Curriculum:
    • A MIM focuses on general management and international business skills.
    • An MBA offers a deeper dive into strategic leadership, allowing for specialization in areas like finance or entrepreneurship.
  3. Innovation:
    • MIM programs tend to integrate innovative learning methodologies, helping students develop leadership skills with a focus on global challenges
    • MBA programs emphasize leadership and strategic thinking but often follow more traditional business practices and established frameworks.
  4. Career Path:
    • MIM graduates typically begin in entry-level management or international roles.
    • MBA graduates often move into senior management, leadership, or executive positions.

The Advantere MIM: A Truly Global Experience

The Master’s in International Management (MIM) at Advantere School of Management stands out as a truly global program. It focuses on experiential learning and solving real-world problems. Advantere equips students with the skills needed to excel in international business. Additionally, students benefit from learning with a diverse cohort, gaining hands-on experience through projects with global organizations. Advantere’s focus on sustainability and social impact ensures that graduates become business leaders who also drive positive change.

Which One Is Right for You?

Your decision in the MIM vs. MBA choice depends on your career stage and future goals. If you’re just starting your career and want broad management skills with an international focus, the MIM could be the best fit. However, if you have experience and want to move into leadership roles, the MBA might suit you better.

Conclusion

Both the MIM and MBA offer valuable opportunities for career growth, but they cater to different stages of professional development. Understanding your career objectives, work experience, and aspirations will help you make the best choice. Whether you choose a MIM or an MBA, both programs provide you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in today’s global business environment.

If you’re looking for an official master’s degree in Madrid with an international perspective, explore our programs in International ManagementFinance, and Talent Management (HR) today and start shaping your future with Advantere.


workplace flexibility is transforming our lives

How Workplace Flexibility Is Transforming Our Lives

Can you imagine a job where you can choose your schedule, work from anywhere, and balance personal and professional needs without sacrificing one for the other? Workplace flexibility is one of the most talked-about topics in today’s workforce.

But what exactly is workplace flexibility? How is it achieved, and who benefits from it?

What Does Workplace Flexibility Mean?

Workplace flexibility refers to the ability to adapt work conditions to meet the needs of both employees and companies. It includes flexible work hours, remote work, and how tasks are completed. This “tailored” model seeks a balance between personal and professional interests. Driven by digital transformation and accelerated by the pandemic, it is redefining the way we approach work.

Although not a new concept, it has evolved. Henry Ford pioneered the eight-hour workday in the 1920s. He realized that a well-rested employee was more productive. Today, it’s not about hours worked but results achieved.

How Is Flexibility in the Workplace Achieved?

Achieving this kind of flexibility requires a comprehensive approach. Some strategies include:

  • Flexible schedules: Employees choose their work hours.
  • Remote work: The option to work from home or anywhere else.
  • Condensed workday: Consolidating work hours into a single block.
  • Compressed workweek: Working more hours Monday to Thursday to have Fridays off.

Success depends on trust and open communication between employees and employers. Additionally, focusing on results rather than hours worked is essential. Tools like Slack, Zoom, and Trello facilitate remote work, proving that flexibility doesn’t compromise efficiency.

Who Is Demanding More Flexibility?

The demand for flexible work comes from various groups, especially Millennials and Gen Z. These generations seek work-life balance more than previous generations. Furthermore, parents, professionals who want to reduce commuting, and older workers transitioning into retirement also value flexibility. For Millennials and Gen Z, flexibility is crucial—79% prefer it over other job benefits.

What Are the Benefits of a Flexible Workplace?

Flexibility brings tangible benefits for both employees and companies. For employees, it provides autonomy and the ability to balance personal responsibilities with work. This improves well-being, motivation, and reduces stress.

For companies, offering flexibility can result in higher retention rates, reduced absenteeism, and increased productivity. Companies that embrace this approach report an 89% higher employee retention rate. Additionally, they can hire talent from anywhere in the world, not just their geographic area.

One notable example is Spotify. In 2021, Spotify launched its “Work From Anywhere” policy, allowing employees to work from any location. This strategy enabled the company to hire top talent, regardless of their physical location.

Is Flexibility in Work the Future?

Flexibility has shifted from a luxury to a necessity. Rigid work models are no longer effective in a constantly evolving world. Companies that fail to adapt risk being left behind. However, the challenge is finding the right balance between flexibility and performance.

While we don’t have all the answers yet, it is clear that flexible work is already transforming how we work today.

If you’re looking for an official master’s degree in Madrid with an international perspective, explore our programs in International ManagementFinance, and Talent Management (HR) today and start shaping your future with Advantere.

This article was written by Pedro César Martínez Morán, Director of the Master in Talent Management (HR) at Advantere, and Fernando Díez, Universidad de Deusto. It was originally published in Spanish in The Conversation.


Advantere Students Visit Loyola and University of Deusto

As part of the pre-master bootcamp for all master’s programs, Advantere students visit Loyola and University of Deusto, one of Advantere’s key academic partners. The bootcamp prepares students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their master’s programs.

Self-Discovery at Loyola and University of Deusto

The Advantere Students visit to Loyola and University of Deusto gave students a unique chance to reflect on their personal and professional development. Through structured sessions, students explored self-awareness and leadership, focusing on their internal growth.

  • Session 1: Assessment Process – Students examined their strengths and identified areas for improvement, encouraging personal growth.
  • Session 2: About You, Taking an Inside View – This session prompted students to reflect on their motivations and values, gaining a deeper understanding of themselves.
  • Session 3: How Well Do You Know Yourself? – Students worked on building self-awareness to better understand their personal and professional identity.
  • Session 4: Personal Branding – They learned how to develop a personal brand that aligns with their career goals.
  • Session 5: Creating Your “About Me” Card – This practical session allowed students to summarize their key values, goals, and skills.
  • Session 6: Achieving Goals – Students learned how to set clear, achievable goals that aligned with their development.
  • Session 7: Ignatian Reflection – Based on Ignatian practices, this session encouraged students to explore leadership through a spiritual lens.

Exploring the University of Deusto

The tour of University of Deusto included a guided tour and an informative session titled “Introduction to Sustainability in Management: A Primer on the Triple Bottom Line,” led by Professor Sofia Garcia Torres. This session introduced the importance of balancing economic, environmental, and social factors in sustainable business practices.

A Holistic Pre-Master Experience

This visit to Loyola and University of Deusto is part of the pre-master bootcamp. This bootcamp helps students build self-awareness, set realistic goals, and develop leadership skills. Although some sessions had a spiritual focus, they were inclusive and valuable to all students, regardless of their background.

The experience reflects Advantere’s dedication to holistic education, combining spiritual reflection with practical business insights to prepare future leaders for the challenges ahead.

If you’re looking for an official master’s degree in Madrid with an international perspective, explore our programs in International ManagementFinance, and Talent Management (HR) today and start shaping your future with Advantere.


Advantere’s Sustainability and Social Impact Report 2022-2024

The Advantere’s Sustainability and Social Impact Report 2022-2024 by Advantere School of Management is now available! This comprehensive report reflects our ongoing commitment to integrating sustainable practices into every part of our school, from academic programs to campus operations and community engagement.

Director’s Message on the Sustainability and Social Impact Report

After two years of Advantere School of Management, our Sustainability and Social Impact Director, Consuelo Benito, presents the sustainability and social impact report.

“This report embodies our dedication to integrating sustainable practices into every area of our school, from academic programs to social impact.”

Navigating the complexities of the 21st century has made it clear that sustainable development is essential. Advantere has always aimed to shape future business leaders who are conscious of their responsibilities to the environment and society. This report is not just a reflection of past achievements. It also serves as a roadmap for our future goals.

Key Initiatives in the Sustainability and Social Impact Report

The report highlights several initiatives that showcase our dedication to sustainability:

1. Curriculum Integration

We have expanded our curriculum to include courses on sustainability, ethics, and social responsibility. A mandatory “Business and Sustainability” course ensures students gain the skills required to address global challenges.

2. Research and Innovation

Our faculty and students engage in research on sustainable business practices, renewable energy, and environmental management. This research offers both academic insights and practical solutions for real-world problems.

3. Community Engagement

We collaborate with local communities, businesses, and organizations to promote sustainability beyond our campus. These partnerships provide students with opportunities to apply their learning in meaningful ways.

4. Campus Operations

We reduce our environmental footprint through energy-efficient buildings, waste reduction, and sustainable transportation, using our campus as a living lab for testing sustainable practices.

Focus on Sustainable Development Goals

Advantere School of Management aligns its impact activities with 6 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These include quality education, reducing inequalities, promoting peace and strong institutions, economic growth, climate action, and global partnerships. By integrating these goals, we aim to foster innovation and create lasting positive change.

The Three Axes of Impact

Our impact strategy operates through three key axes:

1. Impact for the Advantere Community

We emphasize fostering personal and professional growth among students and employees. Activities, workshops, and training programs create a supportive environment that promotes academic development and well-being.

2. Impact for the Business Ecosystem

Students collaborate with organizations on projects that prioritize social impact and sustainability. This approach allows them to gain real-world experience while helping businesses adopt sustainable practices.

  • Sustainability and Social Impact Projects: Every student participates in at least one social impact project in partnership with NGOs and social change organizations.
  • Project-Based Learning: Students work directly with businesses to solve real-life problems, ensuring every project contributes to positive social and environmental outcomes.
  • Capstone Projects: These involve research and data analysis, culminating in solutions grounded in evidence. In 2022/23, 21 out of 38 master’s projects focused on sustainability and social impact.
  • Purpose to Impact: This executive program offers professionals a transformative journey, where they tackle social and global challenges. Starting in Madrid and culminating at Georgetown University, participants explore leadership with experts, engage in impactful projects, and develop solutions for real-world issues.

3. Impact for Society

This axis highlights our role in making a positive impact on the broader environment. We achieve this through CSR initiatives, volunteering, and partnerships with nonprofits. These efforts aim to enhance community welfare and promote environmental stewardship.

In a Nutshell

Download the Full Sustainability and Social Impact Report

This post covers just a few highlights of our sustainability and social impact report 2022-2024. For a deeper understanding of our initiatives, achievements, and future aspirations, we invite you to download the full report. Together, we can continue striving for a more sustainable and equitable future.

Download the report

If you’re looking for an official master’s degree in Madrid with an international perspective, explore our programs in International ManagementFinance, and Talent Management (HR) today and start shaping your future with Advantere.


Talent or Perseverance: What’s More Important?

Rafael Nadal, winner of 22 Grand Slam tennis titles over more than two decades, recently welcomed a “new chapter” in his life. After being eliminated from the Olympic Games in Paris this summer at 38 years old, he reflected on his career. For someone who is likely Spain’s greatest athlete, talent and perseverance for success were both crucial. His perseverance and consistency became fundamental pillars of his victories.

This aligns with Thomas Edison’s famous quote: “Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.” It highlights the importance of effort over talent alone.

Talent and Perseverance Throughout History

For a long time, talent and perseverance were considered the key to reaching the top of any profession. Knowledge and natural ability were seen as essential. People believed that these were either inborn or developed through learning.

In 1990, social psychologists began exploring emotional intelligence. Their research showed that how we manage our own emotions, as well as those of others, plays a crucial role in achieving success. They discovered that emotions drive us to plan, stay motivated, and reach our goals.

A few years later, psychologist Angela Duckworth made a groundbreaking discovery. Success wasn’t just about talent. It also required perseverance and passion for achieving long-term goals. This combination of talent and perseverance is what Duckworth defined as “grit.”

Emotional Intelligence and Perseverance

The findings on emotional intelligence and determination suggest that perseverance is essential to achieving success. However, determination alone may not be enough. New studies have shown that self-control is another crucial factor.

Self-Control and Determination

Self-control refers to the ability to regulate behavior and emotions, especially when faced with distractions. Interestingly, not everyone with high self-control has determination. Some individuals can control their impulses but lack the passion needed to achieve long-term goals. On the other hand, even determined people can fall prey to temptation. This relationship between self-control and talent and perseverance makes it clear that both are important for success.

Resilience: A Key Element of Perseverance

In 2016, Angela Duckworth published her book Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. She compared life to a marathon where resilience is the key to reaching the finish line. Duckworth argued that success can be measured by grit, a combination of talent and perseverance.

Grit is defined as “courage and resolve in the face of difficulties.” Duckworth used this term to describe a personality trait: “perseverance and passion for long-term goals.” This definition forms the basis of a test designed to predict future success. Passion, talent, and perseverance continue to be critical components, but they must be sustained over time.

Is Perseverance Inborn or Learned?

A common question that arises from these studies is whether perseverance is something we’re born with or can develop. In 2016, researchers explored whether genetics played a role in determining someone’s grit score. Their conclusion was that genetics doesn’t explain academic performance.

In 2022, another study looked at whether perseverance and passion could be cultivated through training. The results were mixed. The biggest challenge was ensuring these traits were applied consistently over time.

Passion, Talent, and Perseverance Over the Long Term

Long-term effort is key to success. The ability to persist, even when things don’t go as planned, is essential. Science has identified the factors that predict success. Talent and perseverance, on their own, are not enough. Perseverance and passion, combined with self-control, are necessary over a sustained period.

The Role of Grit in Success

Grit has shown its value as a predictive tool for success. Whether it leads to success, however, depends on how individuals apply it in their lives. External factors like luck or chance can influence the outcome, but talent and perseverance remain crucial.

No one exemplifies grit more than Rafael Nadal. His determination to fight for every point and his unwavering commitment have been key to his lasting success.

Conclusion

The research suggests that talent and perseverance aren’t enough to guarantee it. Long-term passion and perseverance, combined with self-control, are just as important. Whether born with it or developed, grit remains a powerful predictor of success, as shown by athletes like Rafael Nadal.

If you’re looking for an official master’s degree in Madrid with an international perspective, explore our programs in International ManagementFinance, and Talent Management (HR) today and start shaping your future with Advantere.

This article was written by Pedro César Martínez Morán, Director of the Master in Talent Management (HR) at Advantere, and Fernando Díez, Universidad de Deusto. It was originally published in Spanish in The Conversation.


Juan de la Guardia, New Managing Director of Advantere School of Management

Juan de la Guardia, PhD in Economics and a graduate of the School of Engineering (Comillas ICAI), takes on the role of Managing Director at Advantere School of Management. This international school of management operates under the Society of Jesus, in collaboration with Deusto and Comillas, with Georgetown University, which serves as a strategic academic partner.

“It is an honor and a great responsibility to become Managing Director of Advantere School of Management,” he said. “This institution embodies a unique combination of innovation and excellence in business education while reflecting the Society of Jesus’ commitment to forming leaders who can transform the world. We proudly welcome students from over 30 nationalities, which demonstrates our dedication to diversity and multiculturalism—values essential to our mission.

Extensive Business Leadership Experience

Juan de la Guardia brings significant experience in business leadership. After earning his degree in Technical Engineering from Comillas ICAI, he began his career at the German multinational Thyssenkrupp. There, he held senior positions across Spain and international markets, eventually becoming CEO of the Southern Europe Division for Accessibility.

In recent years, he founded several companies, including Aumentta Strategy Advisors, a startup focused on business digitalization for small and micro enterprises. Additionally, he co-founded Holistic Real Estate Investments, specializing in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), organizational consulting, and real estate investment banking.

Campus Arrupe - Advantere School of Management

Advantere School of Management: More Than a Business School

Advantere School of Management offers much more than traditional business education. According to de la Guardia, “It is a space where each student receives personalized support, adapting to their individual needs and the rapidly changing business environment.” He emphasizes Advantere’s unique “re-solutionary learning” approach, which prepares future leaders to address unprecedented challenges with innovative solutions. This method remains rooted in sustainability and social justice, aligning perfectly with Advantere’s mission.

A Vision for Global Leadership

Advantere School of Management operates at the new Campus Arrupe. Arturo Sosa, SJ, the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, recently visited the campus. Reflecting on his visit, de la Guardia noted, “Following Arturo Sosa’s vision, we prioritize working in networks. This collaborative approach not only fosters social transformation but also strengthens our global educational mission.”

He concludes, “My goal is for Advantere School of Management to continue being a leader in shaping socially responsible leaders, committed to societal well-being and environmental protection.”

If you’re looking for an official master’s degree in Madrid with an international perspective, explore our programs in International ManagementFinance, and Talent Management (HR) today and start shaping your future with Advantere.