We all know life can be hard and leadership can be difficult.
And far too often we add unnecessary negativity and unwarranted pressure with our stress.
So why not think of life as a garment—something you wear, something that covers and protects you.
You don’t have to wear it tight and taut. And you don’t have to treat it solemnly and seriously. You can make it comfortable, functional, and something that reflects who you are.
When you wear life as a loose garment, you can…
Get to the naked truth. The false beliefs and distortions that keep you from your best self are not your truth. You must do everything in your power to ban those thoughts that keep you playing small. Because nothing will change until you can live your truth fully.
Give the shirt off your back. When you don’t think you have enough, that is the time to give more. Help others and see what you receive in return.
Walk in someone’s shoes. If you’re feeling down about yourself, make it a point to see with the eyes of another, listen with the ears of another, and walk in the shoes of another. Empathy is among the greatest of gifts.
Don’t dress others down. When you’re lacking in confidence , be vigilant because the last thing you want to elevate yourself at the expense of someone else. When you are looking down at others, chances are no one is looking up to you.
Wear your heart on your sleeve. If you you feel needy and wanting, make time to spend with family and friends and those whose company you enjoy. Show them how much they mean to you and wear your love openly.
Don’t be a stuffed shirt. You always have a choice: You can be stubborn and argumentative, proving your point and insisting on your own way. Or you can overrule self-centeredness and actually have an open heart and mind.
Take off your hat. Even when your needs are not being met, you can always find a reason to show appreciation and gratitude to those around you. It is the most important gift you can give to others (and to yourself).
Treat people with kid gloves. You may be fighting a hard battle, but make room to show grace and compassion to others. Remember that everyone you see is fighting a battle of their own.
Don’t keep it your pocket. Don’t hold on to things because you’re scared of rejection or alienation. Say what you have to say, and don’t hold back. Express yourself with a full heart of passion.
Dress your best. Focus on what truly matters and cultivate your own taste for the best by investing in habits of character and integrity.
Our leadership fashion is the language that creates garments of our interpreted realities.
Lead From Within: It’s always tempting to give up when life is hard. But to hold it together when everyone expects you to fall apart takes true strength. Check your garments of life and loosen them up so you can lead with confidence.
[box]Lolly Daskal is the president and Founder of Lead From Within a consulting firm specializing in executive leadership coaching and customized leadership programs. Connect with Lolly Daskal[/box]
Additional Reading:
- At The Risk Of Being Changed
- The Power Of Parting: 7 Things You Need To Stop Doing
- Lead From Where You Are And With All That You
- The Wisdom Of Whole Hearted Leading
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.
Panteli Tritchew
07. Apr, 2015
“Our leadership fashion is the language that creates garments of our interpreted realities.”
It is so important that we recognize that we can tailor ourselves, despite the continually shifting fashions of the cultures we live in.
Great post, Lolly, wonderful insights, and… well bespoken!
Awuneba
07. Apr, 2015
Excellent post
Suzi McAlpine
08. Apr, 2015
“When you are looking down at others, chances are no one is looking up to you”. A stand out comment in a clever post, Lolly. And continuing the clothes and leadership metaphor – a nod to being authentic and individual (two other important tenets of great leadership I reckon) was wisely noted by Karl Largerfeld, who said, “I want everyone to wear what they want and mix it in their own way.”
Steve
08. Apr, 2015
I think this is a really memorable metaphor, Lolly. Thanks for the post.
loanemu.com
14. Oct, 2015
This is a fabulous article. It’s very astute and the points made are both valid and interesting. This must have taken a lot of work.
elvedinbilic.eb@gmail.com
25. Jan, 2016
Excellent post! Thanks for the post.