Photo by Martin Adams on Unsplash
Dan is constantly seeking input. He is an avid reader and has a wide and eclectic network of people who believe in him. But it’s not all about him. He is focused on helping others achieve great things. He is always interested in my current projects and provides support, encouragement and constructive feedback. Many people have gone on to big things because Dan believed in them, perhaps more than they believed in themselves at a point in time.
In a recent HBR article, Claudio Fernández-Aráoz suggests that, “When thinking about how to develop in our careers, most of us tend to focus on promotions, projects, courses, certifications……We overlook one very key piece of the learning puzzle: proactively surrounding ourselves with people who will push us to succeed in unexpected ways and, in so doing, build genuinely rich, purposeful lives of growth, excellence, and impact.”
Dan surrounds himself with great people who call him to be a great leader. But the starting point for him is supporting other people to be the best possible version of themselves.
After I talk to Dan I aspire to bigger things than if I was left to my own devices. His belief in me is unshakeable. When we talk about new ideas or future projects he is always able to expand my vision. He allows me to contribute to him in a similar way, which is quite a gift. Even when he is going through difficult times himself, he will invariably ask with genuine interest how I am going. It is no surprise that he is one of the most effective leaders I have come across. I am privileged to have him as a supporter.
Are you surrounding yourself with greatness?
Best regards, Brian
