John Donne was an English Poet in the 17th century. In his 1623 devotional series, he wrote the line,
No man is an island
In my pursuit of solitude, I often inadvertently keep out individuals that have the potential to impacted and inspire me.
According to motivational speaker Jim Rohn,
We are, without exception, profoundly impacted by those around us.
I count it as a one of my most sincerest blessings that there were individuals who were able to build a bridge to my island and motivate, influence, and inspire me in ways, for which I am forever grateful.
One such individual is Sharon Green. I am not sure she is at all aware of the esteem in, which I hold her. I certainly never told her.
It was my first “lead” role. It was a statewide initiative that required:
- town hall meetings to massage the huge change we new employees would resist,
- the development of technical and operational trainings,
- and the implementation of a train-the-trainer program to prepare staff, whom would then be deployed to facilitate the trainings statewide.
My first town hall was a colossal failure.
I saw my role as an, informer. You know the, “this is what will be” approach.
“If you do not like it, find another job!” (I know … awful).
About 60 individuals left the meeting that day far more angry, confused, and frustrated then they came. I clearly was not doing very well as a change agent.
I approached Sharon after the meeting, clear that it did not go well. I apologized for my failure and offered to stay on the team, but to step down so that someone else could lead.
(Pause for dramatic effect … signature life moment ahead …)
She said,
No, you will lead this project.
Given my vulnerability at that moment, a “Yes” may have changed my course in history. I believed my skills were inferior and not suited for leadership.
I asked her if there was anything I could do different the next time to improve my outcomes. She said,
Yes, listen.
I took her feedback to heart and changed the course of that project. To this day, I still apply the 80/20 rule when I engage my clients.
It is perhaps relevant to note, I now have a doctorate in leadership, I develop and facilitate leadership/soft skill development programs for my clients, and am an adjust professor for a Master of Organizational Leadership program … thank you Ms. Sharon Green.
Over the next few weeks, I would like to introduce you to two additional individuals who have both inspired and impacted me in ways that helped charter the path for a successful career.
I believe their interviews will inspire you, as they have inspired me.
Dr. Gia Consulting
