Do you focus on what you have NOT done?
Perhaps you are caught up in a never ending to-do list? You may not take the time to reflect on your achievements. A valuable question to ask is, “What are you most proud of having accomplished?”
You will have many things on your list of accomplishments. But there could be one highlight.
My client Karen was proud of reinventing her problem-solving strength.
She invested in her own development this year and in doing so, has taken her leadership to a new level. She appeared to have a successful career, but the relentless grind of meetings and 24/7 online connection meant she lacked satisfaction or fulfilment from her work.
This year she has put her self-sabotaging demons to rest. She now has greater conviction that her problem-solving strength is just what the business needs to address the strategic challenges they face. Her ability to bridge the chasm between the business and technology departments also makes her a prized asset.
She has inspired the team to step up and solve the tactical problems that were weighing her down. Once Karen took the time to get in touch with what she was most proud of having accomplished, her mindset shifted and others caught the bug. She connected with her team members and asked them what they were most proud of having accomplished this year. They have a greater sense of satisfaction after Karen acknowledged them for their achievements.
As leaders, we need to be role models for our teams, proud of our accomplishments. It could even be contagious. Dan Schawbel in his book, Back to Human: How Great Leaders Create Connection in the Age of Isolation, points to research that shows that well-being is like a virus, meaning that if you have a high level of it, your positive state will rub off onto your colleagues.
Karen has a renewed sense of fulfilment about her work. She is now creating a theme of vitality next year.
🙋 What are you most proud of having accomplished?🙋
Best regards, Brian