Notes from the Week - Week 33
Adventures - Old and New
Last week was by far one of the most interesting and challenging I’ve had in a long while. And given the year I’ve had that is saying a lot. Fortunately I think challenges are a good way to make forward progress.
On one hand, I kicked off some of the most exciting work I’ve done for a very long time. Last week was Week Zero of a Future Leaders program with Castles Technology. I am so excited to work with these 6 rising stars that the wonderful Ben Love has identified on his team. I am reminded of my own story as I talk with each of them. Each of these folks brings their own interesting mix of hard work, curiosity, and determination to build something great with their talent and opportunities.
On the other hand, I wrestled with old demons. Some of my interactions over these past couple of months have brought out the tension for me between my desire for connection (and to be liked) with my even stronger desire to just be myself at all costs…with all the intensity, attitude, and ambition that being my true self can bring to the table. For many years, when those two parts of me wrestled, I chose connection. Over the past 2 years, I’ve chosen myself…flaws and all.
Fortunately I have great “wrestling” partners in my friends, close family, and therapist. Some of this is coming up as I work through a coaching curriculum that is pushing me to dig around in my limiting beliefs. Some of it is a product of the risk and courage it requires for me to not work for someone else and to hustle to build this practice on my own.
I share all of this because I want to be open…open minded, open to new ideas, and open to new people. Open-hearted. And in doing so, I believe the world will rise up to meet me on this path and help me finally do something I feel deeply about and can be so very proud of.
I have a voice and I want to use it. And I want to help others find their own voice. I want to take every opportunity that is FOR me and run with it. And those that are not, I want to pass on with gratitude for the offer.
What you can count on, dear reader, is openness and honesty from me here.
Xx,
Leah