“You’d do that for me?” ~ State Farm Ad

Who has been particularly giving to you?  Consider all the people through the pandemic who have been there to offer advice, compassion, and introductions toward bringing you additional recognition and possibly even business. In some way they’ve contributed to making you better.

When I think of the generous leaders who have given freely to support my business, it makes me smile. I always thank these givers and keep them updated of the things they put in motion to be clear their kindness was not in vain. And, the sheer magnitude of gratitude I feel towards them also encourages me to, in turn, support other people in my circle. Do you feel similarly? Does the generosity of others permit you to see new possibilities not only for you but also for the people around you?

I used to have a habit, which I understand several women in leadership roles do, of portraying an image of such confidence that people didn’t think there was anything I needed or any way they could possibly be of service to me. When in actuality, I needed introductions, and clients to keep my business afloat. I was taught stiff upper lip, everything is good. My former boss had that attitude. And because I was trained by her, I kept up that same image to my detriment. It was difficult for me to ask for the things I most needed.

Perhaps you are the same way. When I started working with Millennials and even Gen Z’s they taught me how to ask for things because they were not shy about asking me for advice about anything. They understood I would never judge them or make them feel uncomfortable.  In turn, they have been champions of my services and eager to make time and share their views for my blogs. Perhaps because they ask for immediate feedback, they’ve also been giving of feedback from my workshops and webinars. Obviously, I couldn’t do what I do without them.

During this past year, I’ve craved generosity as many have.  It keeps me going through the tough moments. Kind words from my business coaches, mastermind group. Thoughtful articles, website oversight and suggestions from marketing colleagues. Emails of appreciation from people who consistently read my blog posts. Outbursts of laughter from friends who provide reasons to be silly and creative. And introductions to enlarge my circle from colleagues.

In a leadership role, you may be expected to be generous, yet, how about receiving generosity. Are you able to accept and appreciate the generosity of your boss, colleagues, friends and family and even those who report to you? If you’ve never been comfortable asking or receiving generosity, now is a time you can feel comfortable and even encouraged to. With all we’ve been through recently, we all need some assistance. What a pillar of strength looks like now is one who realizes where they could benefit from support. Because you’re a leader, be the new kind, not like my former boss.  Show those around you as a role model, strength comes from asking, appreciating and receiving.

Oh, and one final thought: gratitude does your body, mind, and spirit good.

 

Top CEO’s have spoken: the world needs more leaders who can navigate through these times. You.

How can you get the things you need to do that?  Ask. Take steps. If you are in a position to bring forth good change, encouragement, and growth, you want full access to your potential. Your field, business and team need you. Make the choices you need to be the leader that advocates change to look forward to.  That change which engages your people, improves productivity and highlights the abilities of your team members.

If you would like to have a conversation on how to step into a greater position of leadership with increased impact, contact me: Susan@SusanGoldbergLeadership.com