I hope everyone had a terrific summer! As you’re arriving home with sand in your suitcase, or sunburn on your nose, I’m here sharing my ACTT Blueprint for Leaders. Today we’re going to talk about the first in the ACTT blue print “T” for Transformation!
Get Your ACTT Together! “T” Stands for Transformation Strategy
What has always fascinated me about butterflies is that I understand what it’s like for my insides to feel like goo. In all seriousness, the reason I mention this is because Transformation is easier felt than explained. The most famous analogy about Transformation is metamorphosis, of course.
Knowing your Transformation Strategy is important because it is your personal development time to grow as a leader. Transformation is very different from being in a transition because we can’t make Transformation happen for ourselves (or those around us, for that matter). However, we can:
- Make a conscious choice to change.
- Take action towards positive change.
- Commit to a time and space for Transformation to happen.
- Be introspective and vulnerable with someone you trust.
- Take responsibility for your part in what’s around you.
- Work with a change agent like a mentor, coach, and or therapist.
- Join a mastermind or leadership group.
Which of the bullets above you are committed to doing?
So, why is Transformation such an important part of being a leader? Because every leader who has made a positive impact in this world has a Transformational story about his or her journey. Further, if you are a Business Owner, and especially a service provider, being able to articulate your Transformation story to a prospective client is critical in having that client know, like and trust you (a good beginning for any relationship, wouldn’t you say?). Also, I must share one additional vital component of Transformation called, “The Stake,” based on the book with the same name written by Henry Kimsey-House.
Your Leadership Stake
A Leadership Stake has two components. The first is what we believe and the second is the anticipated outcome that will occur based on on our belief. This concept really clicked for me as Leadership Coach Rick Tamlyn gave the following example, “Jesus is the only way to heaven.”
The Leadership Stake for BusinessCoachingOnDemand.com is, “When we are fulfilled at work, we are happier at home, and when we are happy at home, the world is a better place.” I offer two more examples from my colleague, Emilie Steele Giustozzi, IT Leader and Professional Coach. First, “Everything is better when everyone buys into the effort and contributes.” (“Stone Soup Concept.”) Emilie’s second stake is, “People will engage from the heart when they know it is safe to do so.” (Her “Safe Harbor” stake.)
Putting your “leadership stake” in the “ground” at minimum will boost your sales process, and at best will transform an entire culture.
Your Transformation Strategy
- You could have chosen any profession, why did you choose the one you’re in now? What do you want people to most remember about you in your work-life?
- How much time do you spend actually doing the things you want to be remembered for?
- What is your Leadership Stake? (What do you believe and what is your anticipated outcome based on that belief?)
Are you clear on your Leadership Stake? It pretty common to be a little fuzzy about it. As you zero in on this, a vital part of what makes you tick, you’ll feel the rush like the anticipation of a great weekend. I’m here to answer any questions you have because I believe we can feel this most days. In my world, EVERY DAY IS FRIDAY!!!