PUT YOUR OXYGEN MASK ON FIRST …continued…
This becomes more relevant as we move into the third step of our inner circle. According to Jim Rohn, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” That represents your inner circle. Who are the people that are most significant in your life? This may or may not be your family. In many cases, it isn’t. When you determine your core values and your balance disc, your inner circle helps to reinforce those foundational elements. They can fill in your weaknesses.
My inner circle reflects my experiences and growth over many years. Throughout my life, there have been changes to my inner circle. You don’t switch them like a light switch, but as you change your inner circle will most likely change. You also need to remember that if you are the smartest person in the room, go find another room. Challenge yourself.
When I was promoted from a director to a vice president at a major non-profit in Madison, WI, it proved to be an incredible lesson about my inner circle. Of course, when I got the promotion, I had to hire my replacement. We went through the process, and I ended up with two finalists. Both were very strong candidates. I had the opportunity to spend some time with the CEO to give one last analysis of the finalists.
One of the candidates was a mirror image of me and had many of the same traits. He enjoyed sports, had a similar demeanor, was tall and white. He was like a clone of me. The other candidate was a strong, Hispanic women. I was recommending the individual who was most like me. As I reflect on it now, it was evident I was afraid to hire someone different than me. After much conversation, I made the right decision and hired Dora. When I spoke recently at the International Economic Development Council Leadership Summit, we were able to connect and share this story and more. It was a great 3-hour lunch.
As you take the journey down the 5-step process, you will begin to notice enhanced self-awareness. Your notice a gain in confidence…to be continued…