
We all have our ways of describing those magical days when everything clicks – those days that make us smile and feel good about ourselves. For me, I call those popcorn days. In my video, I shared that they used to be far and few between for me until I began my development journey.
My perspective changed when I was invited to participate in a six-month leadership development program. Walking in the first day, I felt proud to be included and believed my skills and position earned me a spot in the room.
Immediately, we were challenged to think beyond our activities to who we naturally are at our core. I was unprepared. Self-doubt, fear of vulnerability, and comparison to others crept in. A life of doing had taught me that my worth depended on my last accomplishment.
Throughout my career, I’d unconsciously split myself into parts. I’d learned to act a certain way to be noticed or to succeed, creating a “work me” and a “home me.” At home, I was silly, outgoing, and fun-loving. At work, I was serious, focused, and goal-driven.
Organizationally, we say we want people to bring their whole selves to work. While I believed that in theory, I used to say, “I didn’t come to work to make friends, I have those at home. I come to work to get the job done.” It’s sad to think about it now but even more when I think about the impact that thinking had on my team.
After I started my journey, relationships around me began to shift. I enjoyed giving my time to help the people on my team to be better. My relationship with my son took a positive turn. As I mentioned in my video, I began to spot opportunities earlier that positively impacted the business and garnered leaders’ attention from across the organization.
So, how do you integrate your whole self to become your best self? First, you must be willing to start the development journey. It’s ok that you weren’t taught to think that way. It’s not easy, but I promise it’s a journey worth taking.
Think back on your popcorn days. What made those days so great? What parts of yourself were there? What were you doing? Who were you being when you were at your best?
Reflection is key. Journaling can help you capture your thoughts. When you wake up each morning, think about how you can be better today than you were yesterday. Capture your negative thoughts and behaviors that prevent you from being your best self. Focus on how you come through things and not how things cause you to react…or overreact. Over time, you’ll notice commonalities, likely focusing on how you connect with others rather than just on yourself.
When you hone in on your purpose - your reason for being for the benefit of others, your parts start to come together. When you are being successful, you will naturally do successful things because you’re living out the gifts and talents that are uniquely yours. The small changes will begin a ripple effect on your life in meaningful and profound ways, personally and professionally.
Blockers to being the best you often include thoughts like, ‘I’m already successful so why change?’ or I’m too busy to prioritize this, among others.’ These are common but limiting beliefs.
Purpose has been linked to more contentment, relaxation, enthusiasm, and joy (Forbes). Take Warren Buffett, who dedicates time daily to reading and self-reflection, or Bill Gates with his ‘Think Weeks’. Even the most successful people find value in continuous growth.
I encourage you to think about the possibilities of being better tomorrow than you are today. Remember, actions are an overflow of the heart. No one can be better than you at being your best you. Popcorn days are possible for everyone. Start creating yours today!
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