Leadership skills are something we all possess, but how often do we truly exhibit those skills to their fullest potential? So often, we look at the world around us and compare ourselves to everyone else - how many achievements they have, and how little we have. We are constantly trying to better ourselves; but is it truly for ourselves, or is it to create an image of yourself you want the rest of the world to see? 

 

When I talk to people about their “why” behind improving themselves, very rarely am I ever told it is for themselves. I will be the first to admit that I do the same thing, though. As a wife to a farmer/rancher and a mom of three little boys, almost everything I do is for them. In some way, all my actions can be tied back to them - even when I take time for myself, it is to refill my own cup to go back and make sure theirs are full. 

 

As leaders, it is our duty to continuously better ourselves. For our organizations. For our families. For our friends. For our communities. When are we going to begin to take a step back and realize that sometimes we are the ones that deserve the energy, attention, and actions to better ourselves for ourselves? We are always trying to chase bigger and better things, when we should be taking a moment to step back and look at all the accomplishments we have achieved, and how proud of ourselves we should be. I say “we” because I know I need to do the same thing. I need to take a moment and look at my accomplishments. I need to make a list of the moments that I should be genuinely proud of myself.

 

• Getting my bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate within nine years

• Being recognized as an Influential Woman

• Having journal articles published

• Beginning my own organization

• Stepping out of my comfort zone and talking to WAY more people

• Going on a quick weekend trip to step into my speaking journey

• Becoming less uncomfortable with reaching out about collaborations

• Giving myself grace as a mom

 

So often, I feel as though we need to have lists like the one above sitting in our office, on our bathroom mirror, and even in our vehicles. We need our wallpaper on our phones to be a list of moments we should be proud of ourselves - not to boast and brag to others, but to remember that as leaders we need to look for success in everyone. Including ourselves.