How We are Educated | Accelerate Success with Lorraine Moore

This past weekend I devoured educated by Tara Westover. Her memoir is a compelling example of the indomitable nature of the human spirit. I reflected on friends who are or have struggled with serious illnesses. I thought of my clients, all of whom have faced business challenges, economic influences, challenging relationships with their board or their boss, moments of self-doubt or taking difficult decisions, particularly those affecting people when required.

For me, as for many, life is often a search – for meaning, for new experiences, of curiosity, of delight, for continued learning, to find ways to contribute. Tara positions her experiences as her education. As I reflected on her compelling, heart wrenching and brave story, I asked myself, “How can this best serve my clients and my readers?” In an effort to do just that, here are some of the behaviours* I observe in my most successful and grounded clients, colleagues and friends.

The pursuit of excellence – and not perfection For some, this is in their work as executives. With some, this is in their hobbies – music, athletics, and philanthropy. They are motivated to be the best they can be and unburdened by an ego-driven need to be better than others or “perfect” in their own or others’ measure.
Demonstrate humility This has been oft attributed to the heroes and heroines with good reason. It is as true today as it ever was.
Freely collaborate Those who demonstrate success on a sustained basis are firm in their convictions and stand as leaders while also actively collaborating with others who may challenge their assumptions and offer fresh insights. They are not afraid of being vulnerable with the right audience.
Generosity The pride of authorship does not get in the way. They recognize that someone copying their ideas or actions can be the highest form of flattery. Operating from a place of abundance, they share ideas, resources and make connections. They mentor.
Make courageous decisions While all of us are concerned at times with the risk of failure, particularly when the stakes are high, they know that delaying decisions can have unforeseen consequences. They also know that their position comes responsibility and they do not shirk that responsibility – as volunteers, as leaders, as parents.
Take a stand See above point; they are courageous with their decisions. In addition, they own the responsibility for their decisions and actions They are willing to be held to account.
Redefine themselves Sometimes it is forced upon them by external factors. Sometimes it is the internal call (within themselves) that precipitates the change. Whatever the source, I have seen many examples of the personal and professional growth that accompanies one following a new path – most often a career change but also a sabbatical after a sale of a business, an opportunity in a new city, a renewed commitment to volunteering or community work.

*I specifically describe behaviours rather than attributes. Yes, it is beneficial to understand your preferences and style (and those of others) but those with the same Myers-Briggs classification or Strength Finder characteristics are still uniquely different and success results much more from our actions, decisions and choices than from our styles or preferences.

Elevate your leadership performance by learning from some of the best. Pick up a copy of my book, The 360 Degree CEO: Generating Profits While Leading and Living with Passion and Principles available on Amazon.

My clients accelerate their results – increasing profitability, leadership performance, innovation, and accountability. I would love to discuss how I might help you thrive and contribute to your overall success. Contact me today.

If you found this beneficial, share this post on social media and be sure to click here to sign up for my newsletter so you never miss a post!