Sh*t I’d Tell My 21 Year Old Self: vol.02

I love working with young professionals.? There’s an amazing exchange every time I have the opportunity to surround myself with the next gen.? I teach old slang & learn the new; I answer questions & ask just as many. Life has a bizarre way of teaching us things. If I could sit across from my 21 year old self I’d have a whole lot to share & she’d give me an earful. That girl was bouncing around, dreaming big & challenging the status quo. Little did she know, the years ahead would be filled with lessons she couldn’t yet imagine. Let’s pick up where we left off – here’s vol.02 of Sh*t I’d Tell my 21 Year Old Self……………

14. Be the type of ______ your ______ would fight to keep

One of the best things you can aim for is to be someone that people genuinely want around—not just because of what you bring to the table but because of who you are when you show up. Complete this simple sentence & apply your answer to everything.

Be the kind of leader your team would fight to keep. When they know you have their back & that you’re fair & real with them, they’ll give their best in return. People want to work with someone who sees the whole person, not just a title or a role.

And friendships? Same thing. Don’t let life’s hustle make you forget about the people who truly matter. Make time for them, check-in, & be that friend who actually listens. Those are the people who’ll be there through the rough days & the good ones too. It’s not just about being in their corner; it’s about showing them that you’ll stand by them, no matter what.

While you love a good essay test you live best by this fill in the blank. Be the type of business your client would fight to keep.? Spouse/husband; mentor/mentee; business partner/business partner….the list goes on & on depending on what hat you’re wearing.

?15. #1 Career Goal: Be the Best Leader Your Team Has Ever Had

No matter how hard you try, you may never feel like you’ve “made it” as a leader, & that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s striving. Picture this: when a team member is at their retirement dinner & they’re reflecting on their entire career the goal is for them to think of you as the best leader they’ve ever had. This goal encompasses making a difference, empowering someone to be better than they were the day before, laughing/having fun, respect, honor, giving grace, hard conversations, recognition, listening, sharing, accountability, being there……all of the casual daily interactions you’ll have with people will collectively make a huge impact.? Your goal to be the best under this veil will guide you in the big moments but will most importantly impact the small ones.

Here's the tricky part – we’re all taught that goals need to be SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant & timely).? Well…...if that’s the rule.....you’ll never fully realize this goal. For a few people you might however most of your team will likely not retire in your lifetime. And guess what? Achieving the goal isn’t actually the goal – the pursuit of the goal is the magic.

16. Open, honest & timely communication.

Open, honest & timely communication is the foundation of every single relationship you’ll ever have - professionally & personally. Be upfront, be kind, be clear & be consistent. People appreciate knowing where they stand, & they’ll trust you more for it. Even the tough conversations are easier when you don’t delay them. Get them out in the open early & approach them with a genuine desire to make things better, not just to get your point across.

Being straightforward doesn’t mean being harsh. It means you care enough to tell people the truth in a way that respects them. Lying is a hot button – never do it & never tolerate it.? #TruthAlways

17. Commit to Lifelong Learning

Foster an open mindset & never stop learning. It’s that simple. The best leaders, the best friends, the best anything keep learning, keep growing, & remain curious. Ask questions like they’re going out of style. The world moves fast, & you want to stay ready for whatever comes next, or better yet, get one step ahead. The beauty of learning is that it can happen anywhere. It can be absorbed through colleagues, speakers, industry leaders, books, online courses, conversations & experience. Subscribe to leaders in their field & stay up to date. Most of the time, fresh ideas are exactly what you need. And we all know what CliftonStrengths thinks about your “ideation”.......it barely registers. :) [You do have good ideas, we’ve been through this a thousand times......roll with your #1 activation. You’re alright – you DO have good ideas.......] #SoarWithYourStrengths

?That’s it for now 21 YO LB. Keep breathing, show up & do the next thing. #SecretSauce