“Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Confidence does not have to equate with bravado and brass. Often the best leaders engender loyalty, trust and fellowship through quiet poise and conviction.
Recently I met one such individual. She did not have the loudest voice nor did she choose to be the center of the group. In fact, you might easily pass her by in the hall. Still, you knew she was someone when she entered the room; and everyone wanted to hear what she had to say.
I came away from the meeting with this short list of simple rules in my head. Pardon my assumptions but I wonder what she would think of these. I will ask her next time.
- Take a stand. It’s not about being right; it’s about being secure in your beliefs and open to other points of view.
- Listen more than you speak. Opportunities to learn and grow are all around; be open to them.
- Ask questions. Strength lies in honesty, curiosity, and recognizing one’s limitations.
- Acknowledge, appreciate and reward others. None of us are alone, nor can we do everything by ourselves. Relationships are a gift to be valued.
- Own your actions. We are accountable to ourselves, our communities, and the world.
What do you think? Do you know this person? Are YOU this person?
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