Our leadership story is the most powerful tool leaders have to help them describe their professional journey and what went into formulating their critical career decisions. Our stories showcase the skills and knowledge we gained as we explored and learned from different jobs and experiences. Our leadership story also encompasses the lessons we gleaned from the many bosses and colleagues we worked with and met, each bringing out something unique in us. Our leadership stories keep evolving as we keep growing and redefining ourselves.
At certain points in our leadership journey, we may recognize that our stories aren’t reflecting the leader we are today or the leader we want to become. When we are feeling this way we need to rediscover the leadership story we want to tell. We need to rewrite our story to display our transformed leadership. The truth is that our leadership stories are not stagnant; they are a continual work in progress.
It is time to redefine your leadership story when:
1. We No Longer Feel Authentic
It’s an uncomfortable feeling when we are not leading with our core values. If we are asked to compromise what matters most to us or what brings us fulfillment and energy, we can become paralyzed. This has happened to some of my clients and then they are unable to perform their best. Our core values are a compass for leaders, always steering us in the right direction. A helpful way to identify your core values is to think of times when you felt fully alive. What made you feel that way? I bet your core values were shining through. Be your authentic self and you won’t go wrong.
2. We Feel Stuck and Unsatisfied
If our leadership story feels stuck, going nowhere, then it is time to find a new direction. How do you know if you are stuck?
- You feel burned out doing your daily tasks.
- You barely can get to work each day.
- It seems like everyone around you is energized but you.
- You leave work beaten up.
3. We Have Evolved Into A Different Type Of Leader
Since our leadership stories are always changing, there may come a point that you realize you are not the leader you use to be. Maybe you haven’t had a chance to put your new skills into action. Or maybe you use to be quieter at meetings and now you have the confidence to speak up. Sometimes leaders are finally committed to pursuing a different job or career. We can’t allow others to “peg” us to act or behave in a certain way when we are no longer that way. Change your leadership story to mirror your new style.
4. We Are Ready For A Growth Spurt
Recently I worked with a manager who shared their fascination in learning how to sell. They were technically a star, but wanted to grow in networking and connecting more with clients. If we are eager to learn new competences and develop new areas of expertise then go for it and redefine your leadership story.
- Ask your boss for new responsibilities and experiences in areas that interest you.
- Talk to colleagues in other departments doing the work that you are eager to learn.
- Read articles and books about the topic you want to pursue.
- Partner with a coach to help you clarify what steps are important for you to take to honor the leader you long to be.
5. We Sense Our Team Doesn’t See Our Worth
Feeling valued and appreciated is what drives leaders to perform at their highest levels and put their best foot forward. Leaders I work with will sometimes want to leave an organization when they are not being recognized or asked for input. To change that part of our leadership story on how our teams or bosses see our value we often need to just ask for feedback. Be specific about a particular project you contributed and then show your appreciation for their comments by thanking them. Just because our colleagues don’t share their gratitude doesn’t mean we aren’t important. Simply ask for what you need. By the way, we don’t have to accept all feedback as fact.
How have you redefined your leadership story to empower the leader within you?
If you need some help in redefining your leadership story please let me know.