In my last post, I explored the idea of success and how it is defined. But I recognize that there is something at work that may rob you of the sweet joy of success, no matter how successful you are. It is called the Imposter Syndrome. There are a number of coping strategies we imposters employ. I have all of them in my repertoire – and am an expert at a few of them!
“S – U – C – C – E – S – S , that’s the way to spell success.” Is a chant I’ve heard cheerleaders recite way too many times, from grade school on. Spelling success is not all that hard – defining it is much more difficult.
I am writing this post in the aftermath of a weekend getaway gone awry. The plan was simple – leave very early on Saturday morning, arrive at our favorite beach by 11, enjoy the island and friends and great seafood. And then out the next night- back in time to resume work on Monday.
Instead, I am at home… not at the beach.
Leaders are advised these days to be transparent – but with little guidance on why and when and how. Today’s post looks at why leaders might choose to be transparent, and how to do so in ways that really do help achieve a higher purpose. And we’ll also look at when NOT to be transparent!
I had the opportunity to meet a brilliant young man this week. His list of accomplishments was long, his skill-set was broad, and his impact on others was positive and deep. Yet it was clear that he was struggling with a bad case of the “shoulds” and the second guessing that came with it.
Female leaders who command are called names I can’t print. Men who emote are seen as weak and ineffectual. Which brings us to the classic question: Are gender differences genetic or learned? Nature or nurture? Hardwired or socially scripted? Scientists have struggled with this question for centuries. I don’t have the answer, but I do have some observations based on the statistical concept I call the “tyranny of the tails” that may provide some insight.
As I am planning for 2014, I find myself stuck – wallowing in a lack of clarity about big picture questions, like where I want to be in 5 years and where to spend my time and energy in the coming year to get there. If you have times when awaiting the perfect plan is really a procrastination ploy – you’ll enjoy this post.
A dear friend, Marcia Nellans, sent me a little two minute clip filmed in Glasgow, called The Power of Words. I’ve been thinking about it ever since. Spend a moment and tell me the thoughts it provokes for you.
I wish each of you a happy, healthy and prosperous 2014 – in all the unique ways that matter to you!
In our Evergreen Leadership Process we have a way to continually stay fresh and healthy. The new year is a great time to build this practice into your life – and will yield better results than the tradition of making resolutions. Take a look…
Christmas – Solstice – Hanukah – Kwanza – Boxing Day – New Year’s
No matter you faith or holiday tradition, December and early January are a time of revelry and feasting around the globe, as well as a time of reflection, peace and generosity. As a person who looks more for what we have in common than what divides us, I see five themes that are entwined around these different celebrations. And each is a precious gift.
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