I am fortunate to coach a number of administrators, mostly females, around the nation. I do it because, along the way, many leaders took their time to do the same with me. What I've noticed is that so many leaders don't see themselves the way their colleagues do, the way I do.
As a teacher, I watched how elementary students progressed into middle school and students lost their edge, especially girls. Gone was the "I can do it" outlook that was so prevalent in kindergarten. It was replaced by the "Can I do it" questioning and often the "I don't think I'm ready" perspective that is so common...and again, especially with women.
The amount of self-doubt that seems to creep into our minds along the way is challenging as we move higher into the ranks. And its not like any of us can snap our fingers and change our perspectives on ourselves and others. Some days you might not feel like you're bringing your A game and, on any given day, everyone else may seem more this or more that.
Here's another way to look at it:
You can be the juiciest peach in the world, and there will be those who don't like peaches.
Not that its all about the 'just get over it' perspective, but there is something to that. Learn to trust yourself. Learn to see your own strengths. More below...check it out!
* Read it.
Hey...TED has its own blog. This one about building self-esteem....a great starter!
Let me just say it - I love this video. Love it! What I really appreciate is how subtle the audio is, how inspiring the photos are, and how strong the message is. Got 15 minutes? See for yourself!
* Share it.
Can you print these and share them? Notes to colleagues on key topics like confidence, gratitude, appreciation....here you go.
Now go slay yet another week!