Embracing Leadership Through Life's Lessons

Today was more than just an ordinary day; it was a day that offered a valuable lesson in leadership through a very personal experience – my son's first breakup. Initially, I slipped into 'Dad mode,' instinctively reacting with a "Screw that, you don't need that" attitude. Then, it hit me: I was projecting my own past insecurities. I remembered my youthful days, particularly the nervousness of asking out my crush. But soon, I shifted gears from a protective father to an empathetic leader, and the 'OG Pops' side of me took over.

This experience with my son taught me two crucial lessons in leadership. The first was about empathy and the importance of validating feelings. As leaders, it's vital to recognize and acknowledge the emotions of those around us, be it our children or team members. My son's feelings were real, and they deserved to be treated with respect and understanding, regardless of my personal beliefs or experiences.

The second lesson revolved around wisdom and perspective. My son’s girlfriend's decision, though tough, was, in fact, a favor in disguise. It reminded me there's no value in holding onto relationships or situations that don't contribute positively to our growth or well-being. As we age or progress in life and career, we learn to recognize these moments as opportunities for growth rather than losses.

Reflecting on this, I realized that the people we surround ourselves with should inspire us to be better – better musicians, students, friends, or leaders. This is especially true in leadership, where the environment we create and the company we keep significantly influence our effectiveness and ability to focus.

This personal story ties back to the principles of the Zeal Productivity Model. It's the consistency in our personal or professional pursuits that allows us to look back with a smile, understanding our growth and the hurdles we've overcome.

Life's moments like these blur the lines between our personal and professional selves. They remind us that wisdom for our leadership roles can come from the most unexpected places. As we continue exploring these themes, I invite you to reflect on your experiences and how they have shaped your approach to leadership.

Evan J Howard, MBA, Zeal Consulting 🚀