It’s hard to soar like an eagle when you’re surrounded by turkeys
My dad had that saying hanging on his wall in his office when I was a kid. It always stuck with me because I thought it was funny, but now I know it to be true, too. The older I get the more I realize how important it is to surround yourself with good people. Especially if you aim to succeed, both personally and professionally. There are a million sayings and quotes about this. An important aspect of success is the company you keep, the people who make up your team, and those that you choose to spend the most time with. Having a positive influence from the people around you can and will affect you and the pursuit of your goals.
Mentorship
I have had many mentors in my life. I think it is important to always look to someone you respect, someone who you regard as successful, trustworthy and great at something you want to be good at as well. I am a sucker for learning new things, and I get easily inspired by people who are smarter than me. I respect that everyone has something they are good at, and if it is something I would like to improve I look for people who can assist by means of their skill or attribute that I aspire to gain. I have several mentors right now, and they all offer something different to my learning journey. I have also mentored many people as well, and it brings me a lot of joy and makes me proud that I can help someone like my mentors have helped me. If anyone asks you to be a mentor, I recommend it. And take it as a compliment!
Leadership
Being a good leader is different from mentoring. This is due in part to the qualifications necessary and the level of responsibility. I have also been very fortunate to have learned from and been led by some amazing leaders. Of course I have had a few that I could tell a story or 2 about that wouldn’t be very flattering, but don’t we all? The impact they left just made me stronger and helped me recognize the kind of leader I would like to be and the kind I’m actually inspired by and would follow. Not everyone is cut out for leadership. Being great at something doesn’t mean you’d be a good leader. Strength of character, respect, diligent work ethic and determination go a long way in leadership roles.
If you have the chance to lead a team, be a leader, not a boss. Positive influencing is a vital component in achieving goals as a team. The best leaders put their team first before personal gain. They can take pride in the achievements of their team without taking credit. I’m fortunate that my leadership team embodies all of the best qualities and possesses the diversity that relates to every team member. This is likely the reason our company is doing so well on all levels, and I’m grateful to be a part of Team Parabilis!