True Leadership
Build More Confidence, Business Mindset
In 2006 I went on a trip to India with about 15 other students in my nutrition program. We stayed in Pune for 3 weeks, studying, learning and meditating. It was one of the most fantastic experiences of my life. One afternoon we were supposed to meet at 3:30 for a group event. My friend Kyira and I got caught up in getting a massage and were about five minutes late for the meeting. There were strict rules about being late — and we were banned from a very important group meditation at the Osho Center as punishment.
The truth was that Kyira and I didn’t mind at all. We spent the day shopping in the city and went to the meditation later on during the trip. We actually had one of the most fun days of the trip together — and to this day we are still the best of friends.
When the meditation was over, the leader of our group called me to her room for a chat. As I sat down she looked at me and said, “Monica, you have no idea how much the other students look up to you. You are a gentle and kind leader. You set an example for others. They follow you because of your kindness, generosity and heart. And they really missed you today. It’s time to start being aware of the kind of leader you are — and who you want to become.”
Up until that moment I had no idea of the kind of effect I had on others. But her words rang true, and I’ve never forgotten them.
As women entrepreneurs we are leaders. We lead our teams, our clients, our consumers, and everyone who touches us.
Every action we take is noticed by those around us. When we walk into a room late. How we respond to things. Our body language. Our words. The energy we put into a room.
I’m often surprised by how few women entrepreneurs realize that they are leaders.
That every action they make and every word they say is a demonstration to those around them — even if it’s through the phone or computer. And then they wonder why their vendors aren’t showing up on time for meetings, communicating clearly or are late on payments. It’s all connected. And for better or worse — most of the people around us are mirroring our own behaviors.
That’s why I’ve found that it is worth it to spend some time on determining the kind of leader you want to be. The kinds of people you want to emulate. And the effect that you want to have on people. Here’s to intentional leadership — and adding a positive impact to every person you touch.
Photo: flickr, David Crow
