The simplest definition of leadership is influencing others to do something while working towards a common goal or agenda. In 2022, I’m focusing on becoming a better leader in all areas of my life. As I grow, I’m sharing lessons and stories along the way. Thanks for tuning in and I hope something I share resonates with you in your leadership (influence) journey. 

One of my daughters is a high school junior and we’ve been talking about post-high school plans. She’s interested in going to college and has a long list of her top choices. One of those  top choices we visited when she was in 4th grade and something stood out about it then. Now, 7 years later, she is still interested in that school. We decided to visit again now that she’s older and preparing for graduation. Her experience was different this time. While she still liked the school, it paled in comparison to another school she visited. Her first impression is not necessarily still accurate. 

Just as my daughter is remaining open to new ideas, as leaders, it’s important we remain open to new ideas as well—new thoughts, insight, perspectives, practices, etc. Just because we’ve always done things a certain way, doesn’t mean it’s the only way to get it done or that there isn’t a more efficient way. It also means there’s a wealth of knowledge in trying new things and being open to a variety of options. If we become too bent on one particular thing, we may miss the beauty of something else that might be even better. 

Take a moment and think of an area in which you may have become stuck by not being open or flexible to trying something new or listening to a different perspective. 

How can you get unstuck? 

What steps do you need to take to embrace other options?

 ~Coletta Jones Patterson

Coletta is an author, speaker, life coach and business executive who is passionate about helping others get unstuck. She hosts a beyond stuck podcast and has written seven inspirational books. Connect with Coletta at info@moveu4ward.com.