Sunday evenings are my time to reflect on the week past, and this most recent one inspired me to consider the three words that best described it. They are -Vulnerability, Humility, and Encouragement. Words born from some heartfelt conversations held in person and digitally
The first of those conversations came via a new work acquaintance. We are in the beginning stages of getting to know each other, since we just started carpooling to a leadership program we’re both participating in. I suspect her vulnerability arose in part from my presentation the week before, where I talked about a personal failure as an example of embracing a growth mindset.
Our conversation began simply enough. We were chatting about outdoor winter activities, and I shared how I was re-learning how to cross-country ski. My suggestion that she could do the same resulted in a surprising response. Even more so, because her honesty and vulnerability were a risk on her part.
She said she couldn’t take the risk. As a recovering alcoholic and substance user, her bones were now too brittle and were easily broken.
That gave me pause.
She went on to share details of her childhood and teen years, and it was easy to see how the path of addiction was taken.
While we both work for an organization that specifically deals with mental health and addictions, I’m not a clinician, and you never know for sure how someone will react. I didn’t need to know those personal details for us to have a working relationship; however, her trust gave me an inside window into what her childhood and teenage years had been like. Through her, I better appreciated the obstacles she’s faced as she’s worked toward creating a successful life and impactful career.
This conversation, like so many other memorable ones I’ve had over the years, was an invitation to consider all that I don’t know. She gave me yet another way to reflect on how and why an addiction may develop, and the ongoing consequences of those choices. What a gift to my deepening understanding of the human experience.
Humility –The Place Where Ego Rests, and Humanity Emerges
Some emails can’t help but make you pause and reflect. They don’t have to be long to be meaningful. This was certainly the case when I received an email that perfectly captured the sender's character. It was a thank-you for a mention in my previous post, with the word “honored” included in the message.
This is humility personified.
At a time when we’re faced with a barrage of bombastic statements, the contrast couldn’t be starker. What a breath of fresh air Dr. Neil Hawkes gave me in that email and so many other interactions we’ve had.
From the first time we chatted, I knew he was the “genuine article.” Regardless of whether he’s speaking at the UN or traveling internationally to schools and organizations to teach his ground-breaking work, his demeanor is never “look at me, aren’t I great?”
When I received his email, I couldn’t help but think that this is the quality that we need to celebrate in the world. Because frankly, the work he’s doing far outshines mine, and his generosity of spirit is a reminder that true leaders are humble, which is what gives their work staying power.
Words of Encouragement and a Helping Hand
And then, to top off the week, was the encouragement that arrived on several different fronts. (Honestly, it was a pretty great week.)
It began with a simple conversation. Really, just putting an idea out to a new friend. I wondered aloud about speaking to the local bookstore about an idea I had to host a book study group for my book “Journey to Joy”.
She immediately responded with enthusiasm and then asked if I’d thought about speaking at a local church for their monthly “lunch and learn.” While the idea had crossed my mind, I hadn’t taken any action on it, in part because I’m still working full-time and am trying to keep up with my writing goals. But, yes, I was interested in the idea.
Minutes later, she messaged me that she’d emailed the church for me. Literally right after our messaging exchange, she said she knew some folks there and would put in a request.
When I expressed my appreciation, she simply said she wanted to see me succeed. It was encouragement in words and deeds.
Sometimes, when we’re doing our work, it can feel as if we’re doing it alone. We can forget that there are cheerleaders ready to help us along. My friend’s enthusiasm and encouragement came unbidden. I hadn’t expected it, which is why it will carry me for a good, long time.
And so will the interactions with the other folks from this past week. Their efforts to do good in the world, in whatever ways they can, inspire me to keep on track with my goals. Part of that will continue to be to share the people and information that might help you do the same.
Tenacity is the word to move us forward
Strong, values-based leadership is needed more than ever, and it will take some tenacity to keep us on course. I’m convinced that if we all continue to learn and connect with others, we can make a meaningful difference. I’m very fortunate to have met so many people over the years who are doing work that moves humanity forward. And I’m deeply appreciative of all of you who take the time to read my posts and share them with others you think may find them of use.
And, as a sidebar suggestion- Dr. Hawkes has yet another site which you may be interested in as it offers FREE trainings. Here’s the site. https://www.livingvalues.net/
And, if you’re interested, this is the book I’m diving into right now -– Strong Ground- The Lessons of Daring Leadership, The Tenacity of Paradox and the Wisdom of the Human Spirit, by Brene Brown.
