I remember so vividly why I took the path of leadership in my career. One of the main reasons was to make a difference. I loved supporting people and helping them within their role. I saw the importance of employee engagement and creating a nurturing environment where people could develop and grow. There is no better feeling when you get positive feedback from your team members and how they love working in your team.
However, I also remember feeling out of my depth and I would struggle with conflict. I assumed everyone had the same values as me and I couldn’t understand why some team members wouldn’t get on board with changes that were being implemented. There were many times when I felt I was winging it and Imposter Syndrome would show up.
It can be lonely?
I felt as a leader, that I should have all the answers, so it never occurred to me to reach out for help and ask for support. I also believed I was holding onto a limiting belief that I would be seen as failing because I hadn’t got all the answers.
Overtime, it can be draining and have an impact on your wellbeing and I found myself putting off conversations or addressing issues.
You can become a People Pleaser
Leaders are people first, and it’s natural that they want to be liked, said David Scarola, chief experience officer of business resource The Alternative Board TAB. But the need to be in everyone’s good favor can sometimes cloud solid business judgment.
“A common mistake with new managers and new business owners is that they make decisions that are popular, which are often not the best decisions for the business,” Scarola said.
How to turn it around
Reaching out for help is the first step to becoming a great leader. You could confide in a colleague or peer. Share how you are feeling and discuss best practise. All of my clients feel a huge weight lifted when they start to open up and address what is going on for them. You will feel better as you are admitting there is a problem and that is the first step to taking control back for you.
Ask for feedback from your team. Feedback is data and helps to improve and increases self awareness including blindspots. Be specific about the areas of feedback you would like to focus on. Self -awarness is the most important skill to be successful in the 21st century at work.
Find a Mentor who has been in leadership roles in their career, and learn everything you can from them. Even if you meet with them periodically to discuss what’s recently happened on your team, you can gain valuable insights from these fellow leaders who have walked in your shoes.
Imagine how good it would feel to receive a message from your team saying they love the change you have implemented or thanking you for your support in their recent one to one.
Good leaders are those who can facilitate communication and discover new facts by asking the right questions, as well as those who can continuously learn and grow in their own leadership style. If you’re looking to become the kind of leader who can build a successful team and business, look to eliminate your weaknesses by identifying them and practicing the skills you need to overcome them.
It’s comforting to have someone to discuss ideas, share options, and talk things through. Whether you’re striving to lead a team or seeking personal growth, we all need a trusted confidant who we can share our struggles and concerns with.
Together, we can navigate any doubts, concerns and insecurities you may have. But it is important to understand that during these moments of vulnerability that having a coach by your side becomes invaluable.
Ive always been blessed with the knowledge that life is precious and I waste no time living my life with meaning, courage and being fearless. You deserve the same too.
When you are ready to work with me, follow the link to complete my High Performance Questionnaire to learn additional concepts and strategies.
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I believe in you…..You’ll See.