I have learnt to GaG ‘em; that is to show Guts and Grace
Let’s dig in:
Guts
What does it mean to have Guts?
It is defined as “having the courage to do” by Dictionary.com and defined also as the “fortitude and stamina in coping with what alarms, repels, or discourages” by Merriam-Webster dictionary.
When you decide to grow out of age-long perceptions or challenge the cultural status quo, you are taking a big risk; you need to be bold! When you ask your team to do the new and radical you must be courageous. Having guts is not for the faint hearted, it is for those that are determined to create the new, make a change to the way things are, show some aspect of madness to doing things, it is for those that want to change the course of History, it is for those that desire to be successful and leave a legacy.
Our fears and doubts will always hold us back once we allow them to, nevertheless, have you heard about this phrase; “Do It Afraid’’ or even the Nike phrase “Just Do It” ? these phrases speak to the Giants in each and every one of us.
Are there projects that have proven to be so challenging that they have become “white elephants?”, “Are there things you have desired as an individual to start but you are held back by the words of others and your fears?”
DO IT AFRAID!
How?
- Focus on the desired outcomes and what this means for you and also your team
- Communicate! Communicate!! Communicate!!! (especially if you are in a team environment, if you are alone, speak to yourself- give yourself pep talks)
- Read up on brave warriors, those that conquered their worlds- there is a lot to learn from the way they fought for what they believed in, how they changed the course of history, science, politics, technology, e-commerce, etc – Winston Churchhill, Alexander the Great, Margret Thatcher, Nelson Mandela, Jack Welch, Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk etc
- Take a deep breath and dive in
- Don’t give up!!
Now as you are roaring to go and change history, remember that you would need people; your team, family, friends, foes etc. People are the most important resource and that’s why you must show GRACE
Grace
Grace as used here refers to your attitude to criticism and your ability to persuade people to follow your way. This is defined as “a charming or attractive trait or characteristic”, also defined as a “controlled, polite, and pleasant way of behaving or skills that are needed for behaving in a polite way in social situations” by the Merriam- Webster dictionary
Working the charm is as important as being audacious and courageous with your goals. You really shouldn’t boss people around even when you are in the position to do so. A true leader leads from behind and is only seen in front when there is trouble – these are the words of Nelson Mandela. You must balance out your big push for a change with charm and humility. You must be graceful to your team and to the people who can help you make it happen.
You must learn charisma. You must have your team believe in you and know they can follow you to the ends of the world. You need grace.
How do you start?
- Learn to be kind but firm when you are making the change
- Understand not everyone would be bought over- don’t take it personal, move along quickly- use tip 1 above
- Smile and be polite
- Be prepared – learn the art of persuasion – there is a Harvard Business Review on this topic.
- Finally be yourself.
That’s all for this month. I do hope we can start to reach for the impossible! Impossible is nothing!
One Response
Dear Editor,
Your write up is so apt particularly your guiding message to ladies on using our charm, being courageous and firm yet not being bossy. Unfortunately a trend that seems to be becoming is the bossy successful lady in the workplace or in her business. Grace and courage commands respect so there is no need to demand it. Women surely find themselves in places where their authority could be belittled but I strongly support the view that our Graceful rise to a higher knowlege platform in a firm but polite manner wins over followership, respectful appreciation by colleagues and mentees. No need to waste time on those ego’s stifle the truth before them.