jamesrosseausr

[jamesrosseausr]

The Three Keys to Increasing Authentic Leadership

We’ve often seen the word “authentic” being used to describe leaders, influencers, and personalities, especially in the time of digital media. But what does being authentic actually mean, besides being a trendy hashtag? What does authentic leadership look like and can we be more authentic leaders? 

A leadership coach and consultant with senior operations experience in several Fortune 500 companies, David Brown Jr. has uncovered revolutionary ideas on authenticity in leadership while continuing his doctoral studies at Temple University. His first book, Letters to Lucia: 8 Principles for Navigating Adversity is a product of a cathartic transformation, the philosophies of which have helped shape Brown’s ideas on authentic leadership. 

On this episode of The Corelink Solution, David Brown Jr. shares his findings on authentic leadership, after years of study and personal discovery. We discuss how authenticity is not only about “being true to one’s self,” but is a product of many factors, including environment, experience, and synergy between the intrinsic and extrinsic.

Leadership, Inside And Out

David believes that authenticity occurs when there is agreement between our intrinsic processes and extrinsic demonstrations. According to David, intrinsic processes are the thoughts, feelings, emotions, beliefs, values, and internal concepts that we carry with us in our everyday lives. Extrinsic demonstrations are the outward set of actions and behaviors that follow these internalizations. “The more aligned those two are, the higher the person's level of authenticity. The more misaligned they are or less congruent, the less authentic they are… Think about someone who believes something truly, and they go out and pound their chest in that belief, then they’re being authentic. But put yourself in the corporate world - how often do we have a thought, as a leader, and we choose not to act on it? In that environment, we are revealing less of who we are. However, it doesn’t mean that that’s not truly a part of you, because it’s a part of you in a very specific context.”

The Self In Leadership

As David shares in this episode, a lot of self-discovery and transformation first had to take place before he formed his thoughts on authentic leadership. Fresh off of his personal trauma, David’s journey to authentic leadership began when he acknowledged what was in his control - the self - and what was not. 

“Authenticity is a journey of self. To me, that’s such an important starting point because we are conditioned and taught to try to control the environment. To ‘go make it happen.’ The way I look at it is that the environment is simply a reflection of me. You can get three of us in a room, and we’re all seeing the same thing, but we’re all perceiving and interpreting it differently because of our experience and our underlying belief. So, instead of focusing on changing the environment, focus on changing yourself.”

Be Open To Possibilities “A few years ago, I developed a mantra. I was in meditation, and I saw myself running towards the edge of this cliff... As I’m watching this image unfold, I heard this voice or I had a sense. It basically was, ‘There will either be more road or you’ll grow more wings.’” 

This mantra not only carries David through difficult crossroads or uncomfortable situations, but at its core, encourages him to be open to possibilities. In realizing that each person experiences a different reality, David links this to several different possibilities being presented at any one time. Once you can let go of your own reality, what you believe to be true, the possibilities then shift. More roads are discovered, and others may even grow out those wings. 

Fear Is The Mindkiller

We often think of fear as being the direct opposite of bravery, but as David researched, fear also reduces authenticity, one hundred percent of the time. It’s not uncommon to find instances of repressed authenticity because of fear of judgment, repercussion, or ridicule. 

“When we’re in certain environments where we feel more authentic, it’s because our own values, beliefs, etcetera, align to that of the environment. We have a feeling of being in resonance, where we feel connected to the environment. That’s one group. The second group feels resistance in that space. They potentially leave, and find a new environment that matches them. The third group feels resistance, but they’re not willing to leave. So instead, they do what I call silently suffer. People are constantly in one of those three buckets, and in my mind, as we move from context to context, we’re constantly changing.”

Watch or listen in full at https://thecorelinksolution.com/podcasts/episode-35/

[jamesrosseausr]

The Strength of Vulnerability

During a time of uncertainty, social distance, fear, and panic, how do businesses stay connected?

In a recent episode of The Corelink Solution, career architect Amita Mehta talks to us about the importance of being human, of putting compassion and humanity into your business, even if it’s just a simple “how are you?”

Amita’s career has a little bit of everything — some business advising, work in finance, and even a background in collegiate basketball. This illustrious background, coupled with her no-nonsense attitude, has made even the most senior of CEOs turn her way for her counsel.

She didn’t always have it this easy, however. Amita recalls how being comfortable in her own skin took years. Although praised today for being outspoken, she also shares how she felt like she didn’t have a voice at the table in the past. Today she influences and inspires people to be authentic doers and unapologetic dreamers.

As the world advances further into unfamiliar waters due to the effects of COVID-19, people turn to leaders to give them direction. They turn to world leaders, they turn to leaders within their immediate sphere, and in the workplace — they will most definitely turn to you. What does it take to be able to lead people in this unsettling time, even as you might be facing some uncertainties yourself? Take a look at what Amita has to say on the social part of social distancing and being present, though the world seems to be falling apart.

There Is No Work-Life Balance and What Is Important To Employees

This sounds like the most obvious thing in the world, but it’s usually what people miss out on the most. This is where organizations lose people these days. Never before has the workforce been more focused on one’s purpose. Why are you working here? Why are you working so hard? To what end? Employees used to proudly balance work and life, but today, work and life have become one and the same. Amita and James discuss how work and life have become so intertwined that it’s more important than ever to be human and relatable as a leader.

Amita and I discussed some of the findings from Gallup’s most recent survey where they highlight the shift of what is most important to employees in the workforce.

Over-communication

Social distancing might be the new normal, but today’s world has equipped us with the right tools to actually over-communicate. This doesn’t mean micromanaging every little detail of your team. It is about getting the work done, but it also is about being human.

How does one do this? Amita suggests, other than morning huddle sessions, check-in with your team. How are they doing? How are they coping with the pandemic? Shoot from the hip and be vulnerable by recording and sending videos. Share with your team to let them know that, even though you’re not with them physically, you are absolutely 100% present.

Vulnerability

The traditional image of a leader is usually someone tough, unyielding, and that knows the answers to everything. Amita believes that today there is more value being placed in a leader who isn’t afraid to be vulnerable. Sometimes, this might even mean admitting or communicating that leadership isn’t for you, and that’s okay.

Individuals in the workforce today need to have these vulnerable conversations. That vulnerability opens doors for those who do get excited about the prospect of leading and coaching people and getting the right people in the right roles.

Code-Switching

Amita says that there were times along the way that she could have stepped up and leaned in on things that perhaps didn’t sound so right in a meeting. But she hesitated. “Will they not like me if I make a point that goes against the grain? Could I get fired? Could I lose my job?”

We know this scenario. We’ve probably all been in a similar situation. We’re all guilty of putting on a certain face, especially if you’re face to face with a superior. But as Amita shares, maybe it’s actually better not to hide the different aspects of yourself. Employees don’t always have to be silent, no vote needs to be forfeited if tempered the right way.

“I feel like [staying true to my value base system] has served me well, over time… People will learn to trust you if you’re willing to show them the mirror.”

Be Comfortable With The Uncomfortable

Leadership often requires putting yourself in uncomfortable situations. When you give everyone a voice at the table, you’re bound to encounter different opinions. How do you deal with this?

Amita shares how she sees herself as a straight shooter. She’s pretty comfortable with having uncomfortable conversations, even if this means telling your manager something he/she may not want to hear. When we’re honest with individuals in a way that does not put them on the spot or antagonize them, they’ll be more willing to listen and seek advice. Amita built this reputation around her and learned that when people trust the truth in you, they then turn to you for counsel.

You can listen to this full podcast interview at: https://thecorelinksolution.com/podcasts/episode-34/

[jamesrosseausr]

Success Thought of the Day - 6/21/19

  Temper public proclamations about what you are going to do with getting it done.  Plan, Do, Check, Act. Plan the work: Outline what needs to be done to get to where you want to be Do the work: Execute thoughtfully, be as agile as you can Check the work:  Monitor, Measure; Find and Fix; document results Act: Apply what you have learned and modify how you continue to move forward The week is not over, get after it today! Read the full article

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Success Thought of the Day - 6/20/19

An enabling factor here is clarity of what you are working towards. Clarity of your ultimate goal, the interim goals and beginning each day with a checklist of a few things (not a laundry list) that you will complete that day will move you forward.  The compounding effect of that discipline is amazing. Read the full article

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Success Thought of the Day - 6/19/19

Pause for a moment and give thought to “that thing” you have always wanted to do.  You know, “that thing” that comes to mind every so often.  "That thing" that fills you with sublime hope and brings forth that Charlie Brown ear-to-ear smile. What often happens after that magical moment?  Typically a thought process where we rationalize why it cannot be done.  Practice something new.   Resist going DOWN that track and go UP a different track.  Begin to journal two things: 1) What it is about “that thing” that energizes you?  2)  What would be different about your life if you achieved it? Do that each time “that thing” comes to mind and let that begin to give life to your plan of getting it done. Read the full article

[jamesrosseausr]

Success Thought of the Day - 6/18/19

I recently reflected upon my time schedule and couldn’t help but notice how rigid I had become over the years. Up at 4 AM, working out by 4:30 AM, reading in my office by 6:15 AM and so on.  I rarely allowed for an exception, almost like it was non-negotiable.  Those were things I put in place and maintained without much flexibility to “play.” I am learning to change the rules, be balanced and play more.   Play with your significant other, your children, broader family and even by yourself (e.g. gaming, puzzles, whatever you like to do).   It’s healthy and we don’t get the time back. Have a great day! James Read the full article

[jamesrosseausr]

Success Thought of the Day - 6/17/19

When I was a young manager, I was taught to coach performance issues on the basis of “skill or will” as a starting point.  Does the person have the “skills” to do the job?  Does the person possess the “will” (e.g. the juice, the motor, the resilience, etc.) to push forward and get things done? There is a more important question that needs to be asked first, “does the person have the desire?”  Desire, by definition, is a strong feeling of wanting to have something.  While some are naturally gifted, “skills” can be obtained and to a certain degree, “will” can be coached, coerced or faked for short term success.  However, desire is at the root of a person. Leaders that genuinely engage with their team members to understand and nurture that desire will see better performers.  Conversely, those seeking the right career or business venture that lean into desire versus obtaining skills and faking the will are likely to see longer-term success. Have a great week! James   Read the full article

[jamesrosseausr]

Success Thought of the Day - 6/14/19

  Positioning can make the difference of having the wind in your face or at your back. Those are muscles we need to build.  Skills that help us cope, pursue with resilience and overcome obstacles an invaluable.  Those are muscles we need to build to get better. As we know, any skill overused becomes a weakness.  Balance those skills discernment and assessment, making a conscious choice of how much to invest, particular when the wind is blowing fiercely in your face.  Add to your assessment the opportunity to re-pivot and have the wind at your back. Read the full article

[jamesrosseausr]

Success Thought of the Day - 6/13/19

We are sometimes prone to believe that "no news is good news."  That's not true if you want to develop yourself. Seek out people that will provide you with feedback.  Substantive, constructive and actionable feedback is critical to your success. Read the full article

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Success Thought of the Day - 6/12/19

When you exchange “good morning” greetings with my good friend Steve Williamson and then ask him how he is doing, his response is always the same, “I’m doing great, I woke up!” It’s easy for us to take for granted that we woke up this morning as we can sometimes feel bombarded by life's challenges.  If you’re reading this, that means yesterday is in the history books and today you have a fresh opportunity to remedy, recover, pursue and claim your victory. Go get it done today! Read the full article

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Success Thought of the Day - 6/11/19

You're most fierce competition stands in front of you in the mirror every day. Read the full article

[jamesrosseausr]

Success Thought of the Day - 6/10/19

  Go for yours without comparison to another’s and free from fear of scarcity.  Live with abundance in mind. Competition can be a great motivator, but the best of all motivators is chasing your North Star. Read the full article

[jamesrosseausr]

Success Thought of the Day - 6/7/19: Do you have a cape or a phone booth?

I worked in Finance and Human Resources during the first half of my corporate career before moving to the revenue side of the business.  As I was beginning to learn to recruit and hire, I was exposed to techniques that helped prioritize applicants.   One technique begins with the outer envelope.  Most applicants would use a standard plain white envelope.  Those who used a higher quality, heavier weight envelope, were put in a separate pile.  From that pile, there was a second sort based on the paper used.  The last sort was based on the structure of the cover letter and resume in terms of ease of reading, clear presentation of accomplishments (as it is about what the person did, not what space they occupied), etc.  I would guess that out of every 100 applicants that applied, less than 25 made it through that sorting.   That was a long time ago and everything is digital now with more applicants per job opening. What was then only on paper, to be initially trusted and later validated, is now largely online as well.  Expect that after clicking to open and review those documents, the next few clicks are to perform a google search about that applicant and then review their social media accounts.   This can all be done is ten minutes or less.  As they review information, consider that he/she is asking themselves, “will this person raise the average in my company?” “are they someone I believe I would want to work with?” “will they fit within our culture and uphold our values?”   This same process is often applied to entrepreneurs that are pitching business as the prospective customer asks themselves, “is this someone I want to yoke up with?”   Associations are important.   There is only one you, be mindful of how that is presented in all places ... online and offline as the perspective person you want to be employed by or do business with will likely aggregate all sources of information to create how they see "you." Read the full article

[jamesrosseausr]

Success Thought of the Day - 6/6/19

As a child, one of my favorite cartoons was The Jetsons. I loved the scenes where George would tell his daughter to wash the dishes or vacuum the house.  She would complain as if it was a huge task when all she needed to do was literally push a button and a robot would then do the actual work. While we are not totally there yet, the definition of "hard work" has changed a lot over the years in many areas with the advent of technology.  Embracing technology is wonderful, but it can never replace a great work ethic. Read the full article

[jamesrosseausr]

Success Thought of the Day - 6/5/19

This was an area of opportunity for me in the not-too-distant past.  When you lead sales you build up the capacity to persist, overcome objections and "get that sale."   I have learned that as in most things, balance is required. Put forth your best effort, be methodical in approach, learn from what is and what isn't working and don't become obsessed over each "no."  Find the next "yes!" Read the full article

[jamesrosseausr]

Success Thought of the Day - 6/4/19

We must use time creatively, in the knowledge that the time is always ripe to do right. – Martin Luther King, Jr. Time is what time is, we don’t get to buy more of it. We have busy schedules that keep us moving from thing to thing and we often find ourselves catching up on some form of communications with what used to be our downtime. Work towards integrating how you do right into your stream of activities. For example, you can mentor someone over lunch once a week. Another example is expanding your social media habits by finding new audiences (via hashtags or groups) aligned with your purpose, engaging and contributing. Don’t see doing right as an incremental task, integrate it into what you already do. Read the full article