In today’s world, there is a lot of talk about why. For example, why do businesses do what they do? Why do customers care? Why are employees disengaged? As a leader, you also need to focus on why. Specifically, leaders, it would help if you find your why.
- Why do you do what you do?
- Why are you a leader?
Let’s Get Introspective
When we talk about getting introspective, what we’re talking about is really determining why you do what you do. Find your why. It’s essential to figure out what is truly motivating you. What’s your purpose? Some people might say that their why is money. All they might care about is getting a paycheck every week, and that’s what really drives their purpose. Others might get a sense of personal satisfaction from being a leader. Others might be leaders because that is the role they found themselves in through a series of steps and possible missteps. I’ve seen some people thrust into leadership only to regret it, wishing to become individual contributors again. But some might have a greater understanding of knowing that there are specific reasons why they want to be leaders.
Find Your Why
I enjoy the autonomy that comes with being a leader. In various roles I’ve had throughout my career as a manager, I’ve been given the freedom to do work as I see fit. With more of an entrepreneurial spirit, I love to take on challenges, building teams that produce outstanding results. Driving change is fun for me, as I’ve always loved developing a strategy and seeing the plan work. Equally satisfying for me is when I can help others with their own personal growth. Part of my why comes down to knowing my strengths and weaknesses. I like to work with team members who can fill in my gaps so that collectively we can achieve more than we thought possible. Doing so allows me to work in my strength zone, where I’m most engaged. I don’t want to be miserable, doing things I don’t want to do. My why is about being happy.
What’s Your Why?
Far too many people are miserable at work. Part of the reason why they’re miserable is that they’re working in a role that doesn’t match their purpose. They might have skills and strengths that are not utilized in their current position, so it’s a mismatch. They’re not set up to feel authentic. To indeed be happy and engaged at work, everyone needs to know what they are good at and how they can flourish doing what they want to do. It starts with understanding and trying to find your why.
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