The Power of an Inner Circle

As I sat down to chat with Julie Thayne on my latest podcast episode, ‘Inner Circle,’ I found myself reflecting on a journey that's been anything but linear. It’s been a vibrant mix of leadership challenges, personal growth, and, yes, a bit of artistic flair – think abstract paintings meeting corporate strategy! Our conversation delved into something close to my heart (and no, it's not just about my latest abstract artwork). We discussed the importance of having an inner circle – a trusted group of individuals who guide, challenge, and support you. It’s like having your own personal cheer squad, except they're not afraid to tell you when your ideas might just be a tad too abstract (pun intended), or you’re way off the mark.

Here's the thing: moving up the ladder from nursing to CEO wasn't a solo expedition. It was more like a group hike, with various people joining along the way, each adding their unique perspective to my journey. Julie, with her knack for hitting the nail on the head, telling me how it is! rightly pointed out that as humans, we're wired with vulnerabilities. And guess what? It's perfectly fine. In fact, it's more than fine - it's what makes us relatable, real.

During the podcast, I shared my transition from thinking of myself as a good 'number two' to stepping into the CEO role. It wasn't just about changing job titles. It was about a seismic shift in self-perception, and my inner circle played a starring role in this. They were the ones holding up mirrors along the way, showing me reflections I sometimes didn’t recognise - reflections of a leader, a strategist, and yes, a creator.?

The beauty of an inner circle is in its diversity. Imagine a palette where each colour represents a different viewpoint, experience, or piece of advice. When blended together, they create a unique hue – that's the colour of true leadership.

Reflecting on the loneliness often experienced at the top, I’ve realised that your inner circle is your antidote. They're the ones you can brainstorm with over a hot cup of water or even debate the merits of a particular shade of blue in a painting. They're there in times of triumph and in moments of doubt, reminding you that it's okay to be a work in progress - whether it's in the boardroom or in front of a canvas.

To sum up, the real value of an inner circle is not just in the counsel or the network it offers. It’s in its ability to make you feel connected and, yes, sometimes, to bring a bit of creative chaos into the mix while keeping you grounded. As I continue, with a paintbrush in one hand and a business plan in the other, I know my inner circle will be right there with me.

You can listen to the full 'Inner Circle' episode, featuring special guest Julie Thayne , on my Beyond The Dots Podcast and also available on my YouTube channel. Let me know what you think!

Debi