I Am a Leader

I recently took over as the Director for a local women’s networking group. Before this, I had never held a position of leadership- not with adult women, anyway. As an educator, my comfort zone has always been teaching and leading students.?

Two very different groups.?

Thankfully, when I assumed this new role, there was a solid leadership team in place and they’ve been nothing short of amazing! Without these ladies, there is no way I could do the job as effectively.?

The members at-large, have also been a great source of support. Not only were they super receptive, but they’ve generously offered to pitch in however they could in order to lighten the load (best ladies ever!!).?

It truly takes a village.?

During my first 60 days or so, I’ve met with members over coffee and zoom calls to get to know them better and learn how I can support them. I’ve even expanded my own network so I can cross connect at the highest caliber and bring in the right people.

It’s funny- one of my goals is to grow our chapter, but I decided from the very beginning that not everyone would be a good fit.?

For instance, the eWN community has a set of core values that we abide by and that includes traits such as giving first, sharing always, lifting as we climb, being responsive and engaged, and more.?

Not everyone is down with these values.?

But the eWomenNetwork tribe is a clear reflection of these and other purpose-driven values that support our personal and professional goals and desires and we take these values seriously.?

Not too serious, of course. One of our values is our commitment to fun, self-care, and life balance.?

One of the things I’m most proud of in this role is overseeing the eWomenNetwork charity foundation for our chapter, which aims to improve the lives of women and children in emotional or financial need. We achieve this through generous giving all year long through raffles and auctions, which enable us to award an annual financial grant to one lucky winner.?

This year, we awarded a $10,000 grant to a local charity (@Gigi's Playhouse San Diego) who serves families with disabilities and other special needs at no cost.?

My heart.

As someone who grew up with a single mom on welfare and domestic violence in my home, I am passionate about finding ways to make life better for those less fortunate and this new role allows me to use my voice and platform to collaborate with others to do just that.?

I am learning to see myself as an impactful leader each day. I am navigating a new path with a spirit of humility and great desire to lead well.?

I trust that by surrounding myself with the right people and continuing my lifelong learning journey, I will do just fine.?

When I think back to the call made by my friend, and previous director, asking me to take over, I have to admit, I was shocked.?

As I mentioned earlier, I had never envisioned myself as a leader.?

Shortly after my phone call, I even called my sister to express my thoughts and I was met with a mild scolding.?

Older sisters, I tell ya.?

Since I am the author of affirmations and promoter of unshakable confidence, It’s only fitting that I declare I am, in fact, a leader.

Gotta practice what I preach, right?

Sometimes, others see in us what we don't or can’t.?

And in those instances, it’s important to lean in and try to see what they see.?

You are so much more than you realize.

Be confident. Forge a new path when a new path opens before you.?

We’re all leaders in our own right.?

What a great responsibility and honor!

Barbara Guillen is a writer, author, and speaker who loves to inspire others with her words. To learn more about working with her, visit her website at www.barbaraguillen.com.