Episode 235: "Transforming leaders - from the inside out."

SELDI Podcast with Tony Williams

Greetings, Leaders.

The mind is the most potent creation known to man. How we think determines the leader we are, the one we need to become for leading in the 21st century.

Our thinking will influence how we see ourselves, others, and the success we accomplish or miss in life.

Please do not allow this world to mold you in its image. Instead, be transformed from the inside out by renewing your mind.

Early in my career, my thinking about what I desired to accomplish and how I thought of myself was not aligned.

Consequently, I struggled with self-doubt, feelings of inadequacy, and fears of failure.

My performance seemed superb on the outside, but within, I was divided in my thinking, doubting I could accomplish much or compete with so many seemingly more talented people than me. In a sense, I was masquerading. I was not authentic.

"This above all: to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man." Polonius in Hamlet, Act I, scene iii, lines 78–80.

Not being true to who we are places extra burdens on us, and we are not as effective as leaders.

Our best interest is in the renewing of our thinking. Changing and rewiring how we view ourselves, perceptions, and attitudes. Neuroscience shows us that our minds are programmed to think in specific ways from childhood based on our life experiences.

The intentional development of new ways of thinking about ourselves aligns with the vision of who we are and what we envision becoming.

Being transformed by renewing your mind became my new mission in life around my career's quarter-century mark. While becoming authentic, the first place was changing my thought patterns. I wrote on paper the person I envisioned becoming, the qualities I desired, and the impact I wanted my life to make.

I was blessed to be associated with leaders who saw potential in me and nurtured my new leader's vision. The process is ongoing. These are the benefits I noticed.

1. Personal trust and responsibility in my client relationships became enriching.

2. My clients responded differently to my leadership and suggestions.

3. I began to experience the meaning of "trusted advisor."

Someone once said, "People buy from people they like, admire, trust and respect."

According to the Center for Creative Leadership, Trust = Ability + Loyalty + Integrity.

Here are four outcomes.

1. We lead with purpose and meaning.

2. We are consistent in our responses to circumstances.

3. We give honest and caring feedback.

4. We lead with the integrity of the heart and skillful hands.

We grow and rise as leaders when we elevate our thinking with more noble visions and take action!

The result is the release from old thought patterns and the joy of experiencing the new you.

"Keep your eyes fixed straight ahead. Look into the future. Always look up." Tomas J. Watson, Sr.

Victory!