You Are Amazing!

When was the last time you thought about how amazing you really are?  Well, it's about time then.  You are unique in all the world.  One thing I've learned working with hundreds of business leaders over many years is this:  Most of us are very good at beating ourselves up for our mistakes and failings, and not so good at giving ourselves credit for all that is right and good.

And, given all that we have collectively been through in recent years, there is much that is right and good.  First of all, you survived!  Given yourself some credit for that.  It has been a challenging ride with lots of ups and downs, and you made it.  Not only that, but I'm guessing you helped others survive the past few chaotic years.  Think about who you showed up for and how you helped.  Kudos for that.

Research has recently shown that self compassion is a better indicator of success as a leader than self confidence.  So, I think it may be time for you to exercise some self compassion, give yourself a little grace, and give yourself permission to acknowledge just how amazing you are.

There is no doubt that the past few years have presented an unprecedented variety of challenges.  What did you learn about yourself and others?  How will you use that insight in the future?  What skills did you develop, either intentionally or unintentionally.  What strengths did you draw on and what new ones did you realize? 

There has been a lot of opportunity in our recent past for meaningful reflection. If you've been moving at the speed of light out of necessity and based on the myriad demands on your time, energy and attention, today is a good day to stop and reflect. 

I have worked with several leaders who have developed more compassion for others and learned to judge less.  They have learned to give people the benefit of the doubt and to assume positive intent on the part of others.  This is a big and valuable lesson to carry forward. 

Others that I've worked with have learned to create more time in their lives for the things that are important - family, friends, community - and for the things that bring them joy.  They have learned to do a better job of balancing the various aspects of their lives to reflect what they value most.  They have learned to create some boundaries and to think first before saying yes; to say no more often.  These are valuable insights.

Still others have learned the value of resilience and have been proactive about protecting their energy levels.  They have realized that energy is a renewable resource and by focusing on all the parts - physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual - they can elevate their energy overall and build more resilience for facing those inevitable challenges.  In other words, they have learned the importance of self-care, and that it is not selfish.  Taking care of oneself puts you in a better position to take care of others.

So, as you reflect about just how amazing you are and have been, think about what you have learned and how you've grown, and how you will take that into the future you create for yourself. 

How can you operate as your best self more of the time? As a leader, how can you be a better role model to others?  And what are you doing to invest in yourself?  What are you doing to get the feedback you need and the support that will help you improve?  What is your next step in the process of your personal and professional growth?

Being amazing involves continuous learning, growth and improvement.  We are all works in progress.  While the past few years has taught us much, remember to acknowledge it, own it, and leverage it. 

If the leaders in your organization can use some help and direction for continuing on the path of learning, growth and development, let's talk about the best way to do that.  There is no better time to identify the needs, create the path forward, and begin to implement the plan.

Given the continued pace of change, and the levels of volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity that have become our way of life, building your leadership ability and credibility is one of the best things you can do for yourself, your team, your organization, and your community.

Remember just how amazing you are and have been.  And commit to being just as amazing in the future.