I was talking to someone recently who asked me to share my story. When someone asks you that, I feel like your mind quickly runs through all the experiences and memories that moved you in life. You know those defining moments. The moments that change the way you see yourself and the world.
I started my story by sharing my educational history and then of course work history. I was building the foundation to explain how I landed where I am today. Education and work experience are important but what really matters in my experience are the moments that change who you are at your very core.
You know, those moments or events that transform you into a whole new being. I have had a few of those in my lifetime. BTW if what I am talking about does not resonate with you or you have no idea what I am referring to YOU MUST find something that gets you SO out of your comfort zone that it will change your life forever. Trust me on this. It’s those bold fearless steps that will make life more meaningful.
As I continued to share my story, I talked about how I developed my leadership coaching style. It had little to do with my education and everything to do with my personal leadership experience. I had so many negative and disappointing leadership experiences that I began to think there had to be a better way. And of course, there was!!
I took a chance, followed my heart, and trusted myself. What emerged was a leadership development approach that is anything but typical. It has nothing to do with KPIs or a one-size fits none program. It has everything to do with helping people remember who they really are and changing the narrative of their old, expired personal stories.
My leadership approach is not magical. Nor does it involve fairy dust (although sometimes I secretly wish I had some) it simply focuses on humans, their life stories, strengths, and the development of self-awareness.
If you want to change the lives of others, you need to change your own life first. How can you effectively lead others if you are not willing to take bold steps to transform? Leadership requires you to connect with your truth, act with authenticity, and have the ability to optimize your strengths so you are able to serve the needs of others. If you are playing it safe and living small you are not growing, you are dying.
As a leader if you are not clear on who you are or how you operate how can you possibly guide, support, and positively influence others?
The first lesson in changing your life, pay attention to your own experiences and then use them as a guide to improve your life and those around you.
I suggested earlier that doing things that put you SO far out of your comfort zone it will change the fabric of your being. You must do the things you think you cannot do, be fearless and courageous. Do the things that make people think you’re crazy. It will change you and inspire them.
I would love to hear about your life-transforming experiences and how it has made you a better leader. Please share your stories below.
