The Leadership Series

Dear subscribers,

Starting in June, I am offering a newsletter titled: The Leadership Series. This paid subscription recalls personal experiences I’ve had throughout my leadership journey.

Throughout the years, I have obtained knowledge that I no longer have a means to share with others, until now. I used to be in a position where others would come to me with their problems. We established a healthy relationship enough to the point they were comfortable enough to approach me with their issues, even if I was the issue. I knew these people well enough that I could tell by their mannerisms if something was off. And even though I am no longer a part of that organization, some of them still reach out to me for advice.

Throughout the past several months, I’ve come to the realization that I feel the most useful when I am listening to others’ trials and tribulations. When I have the opportunity to provide clarity and insight into their situations, it sparks my sense of purpose and belonging in the world, as if it is what I am meant to do.

Generational Gaps

Depending on which website you visit, they all say the same thing. The year I was born is considered to be right on the tail end of of a “millennial” and beginning of “Gen Z”. Because I have a toe on either side, it’s easy for me to associate with either or. My sister, who is about two years older, is considered a true millennial. My brother, four years younger, is a true Gen Z. I’m stuck in the middle, as I always have been, and try to see things from all POV’s.

My dad, who was born in the 50’s, is a typical old fashioned kind of person, yet displays a laid back sort of attitude when it comes to the workforce. Him and I have always had good relationship since we shared similar ideals and personalities. If I had to sum his entire personality up into a phrase it would be: here for the vibes. His outlook towards working, however, is more relatable to the Gen Z attitude: go to work, do the things, go home, call in when you feel like it; it’s just a job. Your personal wants and needs go first before worrying about working 40+ hours every week at a job.

My mom, a child of the 70’s, is the complete opposite. She continues to work as hard as she can to make something of herself; an admirable trait that is seemingly rare to find (at least according to hiring managers {that’s a different topic entirely}). Despite my dad and I’s closeness and similarities, I’ve always shared in my mom’s passion to make something of myself. A drive we have always had, a trait we were seemingly born with; become a part of something and climb the ladder of success. For me, I’m fueled with a desire to become a major source of influence within a company to help it become successful. I thought I had achieved that, but I was sadly mistaken (also a different topic entirely).

My grandparents, also children of the 50’s, were victims of circumstance, tough love, parental neglect and abuse. Despite all of that, they were/are capable of change and evolution. My grandma, who has since passed, always displayed gracious patience towards me, even when I probably didn’t deserve it. My grandpa, who is still kicking despite all the ailments that have been blasted at him over the years, was the opposite. Short tempered and quick to become irritated; typical for those who were born in the 50’s. I say was because he has since mellowed out over the years. Of course, he’s still ornery from time to time, but who isn’t?

Reading people is not as easy as it seems.

Because of my experience and interactions with multiple generations growing up, I learned how to anticipate their responses, thoughts, needs, questions, and more. I quickly adapted and would use this to my advantage. Even still now, after working in an office job with similar generational gaps, I have refined those skills and which continue to serve me every day. I consider myself to be a professional people reader, if you will. Not only does this apply in a personal setting, but in a professional setting, as well.

When it comes to reading people, you must have a general understanding of their base personality, picking up on social cues, reading body language, facial expressions; similar to playing poker. Are they bluffing? In time you will find out.

Once you get to know them more, gaining a deeper look into their psyche, then you’re able to figure out what motivates them, what their hopes and dreams are, what discourages them, and so much more. However, I assure you, this is not something to be taken lightly. In order for it work, you first have to establish trust, requiring patience and consistency. Eventually, it will lead to vulnerability. Once you’ve achieved that, the real work can begin. This method goes both ways; you must be trustworthy and vulnerable just as they are being with you.

A tale of caution.

Once you practice these methods, it will become easier to identify people’s agendas, hidden or otherwise. Use it wisely and discretely. Stay humble and kind, yet understand when you are influencing others and when you are being influenced. Do not let their emotions affect your advice.

This type of work is emotionally exhausting for some, draining their energy. For others, it is a source of energy. They leave with their spirit revitalized and soaring.

If it leaves you drained, practice the following:
You are enclosed in a bubble. It’s strong, like force field; impenetrable. Others can come near it, but their energy merely bounces off it. This bubble will protect you from absorbing unwanted energy, while retaining your energy. Only you have the authority to let others energy into your bubble if you so desire.

First week of June 2024.

To start, entries will be once a week, focusing on what it means to be a leader, the challenges you face, how to overcome said challenges, and more. Other topics it will include:
-Effective communication practices between co-workers, supervisors, vendors, and more.
-The difference between a boss, manager, and a leader.
-The importance of personal growth.
-Identifying strengths and weaknesses.
-How to read body language, facial expressions, anticipating others needs by thinking ahead.

This Leadership Series will focus on sharing personal stories and experiences that have helped others in hopes it will continue to help someone else. If you think it will add as much value to yourself as it did for others, please like and subscribe.

Thank you all for your continued support. The journey up to this point has been long and confusing, but I feel like I’m back on track.

P.S. The short story Saturday’s will get back to normal soon, I promise. 😉