You're a mentee in Thought Leadership. What's the best way to overcome challenges?

You no more are a mentoree in thought leadership than you are in "genius" or "icon." When my friend Marshall Goldsmith and I co-wrote "Lifestorming" we agreed that you best become a thought leader by hanging out with them and observing their behaviors and language and demeanor.

To embark on a successful learning journey and overcome challenges, it is crucial to adopt a mindset of openness and a genuine willingness to acquire new knowledge. When selecting a mentor, prioritize finding someone who can cater to your specific needs rather than simply fulfilling your wants. Take a proactive approach to your learning process, never hesitate to ask questions, foster positive relationships that unlock your success, set clear objectives, develop actionable plans, and strive to achieve tangible results.

My two cents on this - - Your mentor should guide, inspire, and challenge you, but compatibility is key. - Seek someone who shares your vision, values, and interests, with the capacity and willingness to support you. - Research potential mentors, reach out respectfully, inquire about expectations, availability, and feedback style, and be willing to decline if the fit isn't right.

In the adventurous journey of Thought Leadership, navigating through challenges requires two essential beacons: a wisely chosen mentor and a clearly defined goal. Imagine setting sail on a vast ocean of ideas. Your mentor is the seasoned captain, their wisdom steering you through intellectual storms, guiding you towards enlightenment. This mentor, chosen carefully, becomes your lighthouse, offering clarity and direction. Your goal stands as the North Star, unwavering and guiding. It transforms dreams into tangible destinations, setting the course of your voyage. This star, defined precisely, fuels your journey with purpose and passion. A wise mentor and a clear goal are your compass and map, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Practice beginner's mind. Recently someone asked me to help them with their business, so I recommended many resources and an action strategy. They said 'I already know that.' I've already read that. This is my sixth start up. Etc. Well, I said, looking at what's in front of me, there are some things you 'know' that you're not being implemented. For instance, x, y, and z. And also, how did the other six businesses do? Usually we do the same thing again and again, expecting different results. In this space, a mentor becomes invaluable. Have a mentor help you think way outside of your box, so you can start to implement what you merely 'know.'

In navigating the Thought Leadership journey, success lies in three key strategies: selecting the right mentor, defining a clear goal, and actively seeking and applying feedback. Your mentor is your navigator, guiding you through challenges with wisdom. Your goal is your compass, keeping you focused and on track. Feedback, however, is the wind in your sails, propelling you forward. It offers fresh perspectives and insights, allowing you to adjust your course and refine your strategies for better outcomes. Embracing these three strategies ensures you not only overcome obstacles but also grow and thrive in your Thought Leadership journey.

Artist Wilem DeKooning is most well known for his 'Woman' paintings. Primal surges of messy creative energy, expressing confusion, rage, awe. Ironically, his agent found one of the paintings out by the trash, and said 'this is nice, keep working on these.' The other DeKooning work is mediocre at best, in my opinion. The summary is: we are the worst critics of our own work. Meaning, the least objective. Often downright wrong. (I think I'm great at this when I'm terrible, for instance). I have a few friends who want to 'teach' people social media, when they're terrible at it themselves. Very few followers, little engagement, little evocation of emotion. We need someone to come in and say... 'you suck at this thing, do this instead.'

In the realm of Thought Leadership, the mentor-mentee relationship is a cornerstone of success. It's not just about learning from the mentor's experience, but also about fostering a relationship of mutual trust and respect. The mentee's transparency and accountability are as crucial as the mentor's guidance. This relationship is a two-way street, where both parties learn, grow, and evolve. It's also important to remember that this journey should be enjoyable and fulfilling, not just a means to an end.

You should start by being honest, laying a transparent foundation for trust. Keep communication frequent, sharing ideas openly and listening attentively, to ensure that everyone feels heard and valued. Consistency is key, so make sure to keep your promises, demonstrating reliability through your actions. When misunderstandings arise, address them directly and respectfully to clear the air and prevent resentment. Mutual respect is crucial; appreciate the unique contributions and perspectives each person brings to the table, which enriches collaboration. Remember, trust doesn't bloom overnight. It requires patience and grows over time through consistent, positive interactions. It is a journey, ignite your journey.

In my experience as an executive performance coach, I've found that learning from others is a crucial aspect of leadership development. It's not just about absorbing knowledge, but also about understanding diverse perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. Networking and collaboration can open doors to innovative ideas and opportunities. Being proactive and curious, as the article suggests, can supercharge your leadership skills, making you more adaptable and resilient in the face of change.

In the context of executive performance coaching, the journey of a mentee in thought leadership is akin to supercharging leadership skills. It's about revitalizing the workplace by fostering continuous professional and personal growth. As mentors, we guide HR professionals in developing a culture of learning and resilience, which is crucial for navigating complex managerial issues and reducing high turnover rates. By embracing a growth mindset, leaders can ease overwhelm and transform challenges into opportunities for innovation and engagement, ultimately safeguarding the organization's success.

It is crucial for mentees to embrace openness to new ideas and diverse perspectives, demonstrating a willingness to go beyond their comfort zone and explore novel approaches. Stepping out of your comfort zone may pose challenges initially. However, placing complete trust in your mentor and adhering to their guidance can serve as a compass to navigate through tough situations.

In the journey of thought leadership development, it's crucial to recognize that leadership skills are not static; they evolve with experience and exposure. As an executive performance coach, I've seen firsthand the transformative power of addressing derailing leadership behaviors and rerouting them toward success. By integrating emotional intelligence and effective communication into your leadership style, you not only supercharge your leadership skills but also create a harmonious work environment that can significantly reduce turnover rates and increase employee engagement. Remember, the path to becoming a thought leader is a continuous one, and every challenge is an opportunity for growth.