What are 3 things you discovered about yourself?
Probably the most important thing that I have discovered about myself is knowing my strengths and what brings me joy—when I really leverage that—I am a happier, more effective leader. I need to be the visionary and find an integrator in my business who compliments and supports me. This is key to being successful and enjoying the journey along the way.
Similarly, I have learned that to be successful I have to “delegate to elevate”. One thing I learned from my mom was to surround myself with a circle of trust. She told me that if I was going to try to be a mom and a successful business leader, I was going to have to be willing to let go of doing things that others could do better—both at work and at home. Doing laundry and grocery shopping are not the best use of my time as a busy executive who wants quality time with my kids. And my business operates better when I surround myself with a team of leaders who I can trust to lead their functions in the business. Trying to do or manage every detail myself isn’t realistic or good for my business or my personal life.
I am rarely satisfied. I always feel that we can do more to reach our fullest potential and I’m constantly looking for ways to improve or change. As a company, we have everyone take Patrick Lencioni’s assessment of the 6 Types of Working Genius. I have learned that I work in the Genius of Wonder, so I am naturally inclined to “ponder and speculate and question the state of things, asking the questions that provoke answers and action.” I have found that when I understand my geniuses and frustrations—and those of my team—we work more effectively together, and I have more joy in my work.