Starting as an intern, I dreamed of leading my own team one day. Shifting from a “do-er” to a leader, I learned how important it is to live by your values and know your strengths. My journey from Project manager to Team leader was a shift in perspective and responsibility. Though I’ve chosen to put on hold my leadership journey, here are some key lessons I learned along the way which hopefully will offer guidance to aspiring leaders.
Say hi to the imposter syndrome
Moving from being a team member to a leader can feel isolating at first, especially when you’re used to being part of a tight-knit team. Feelings of self-doubt and not being “good enough” can creep in, so seeking support from a mentor who would understand your journey can make all the difference.
Most of it is in your head – get it out
Overthinking can hold you back from expressing your full potential. So, having honest regular “let’s clear the air” check-ins helps a lot. Never assume, always ask is the golden rule I learned in my early days. Even though the journey feels lonely, no leader is truly alone. You would be surprised to know how many people feel same things but don’t necessarily talk about them.
Find what you enjoy doing – and do more of it
Discover what you are good at and enjoy doing. This role is not just another position to jump in and jump off. Usually it’s a choice for longer journey of continuous development. When you recognize and leverage your strengths, you eventually will need to delegate. Otherwise, you will be hindering your own progress and kinda hold back the growth of others.
Seeing others grow is the most rewarding experience
We all know strategic vision and business goals are vital to any organization. Otherwise, what are we even discussing here? 😀
However, people are the ones who actually contribute to those goals shareholders come up with (it is what it is! :)). So, if people are the ones making company revenues and profits happen, why not invest in the growth of your very own people? I believe the “unspoken rule” should exist – each employer to strive and make their people few percent ‘better’ – more professional, more agile, curious and innovative. For me, having personalized growth plans cascaded from strategic company goals proved as most efficient way to lead the team. Then you make it as a private editable shared board of goals between you and your teammate where you check-in during 1:1s, set milestones and track progress.. ahhh music to my ears :)) this is how a structure geekiness sounds like haha
Find yourself a way to see results
I transitioned from a role where I could literally touch my actual work results to a leadership role where most of things are fluid (not really touchable). It is something to get used to. Leader’s achievements become intertwined with their team’s achievements. I recommend redefining what an “achieved result” and “success” means for you. Before becoming a leader I never really thought that seeing results is that important to me. Oopsie!
Identify your flagship topic
Determine your niche as a leader – the skill or initiative that sets you apart. Reflect on what initiatives keep becoming yours? What’s the one skill of yours you keep bringing into all your jobs? When you just can’t stand to just observe and have to act – and have an idea where to start? For me, it was always bringing structure, data and people together. Knowing your flagship topic will help you lead with confidence and clarity.
Now say hi to self-leadership
Leadership begins with self-awareness and self-care. Nurture your own growth and wellbeing because it directly impacts your ability to motivate and inspire others. You really can’t pour from an empty bucket.
Write, write, write
Develop a habit of writing. It will help by bringing structure to your thoughts. Start as simple as writing down meeting notes and documenting a freshly agreed new process. It may seem a tedious task at first but it will pay off – and that is a pinky promise.
Please be yourself, ok?
In our lifetime, we dedicate approximately 80,000 hours to work – that is quite a significant portion of life.
For all those who aspire to lead, I encourage you to embrace your authentic selves, make self-leadership a priority and recognize the power of your individual strengths and perspectives. Keep in mind, your path is uniquely yours and every challenge you face is an opportunity for growth. And don’t you dare believing in what imposter syndrome is trying to tell you – that’s fake news 😀
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