Tough Choices / A Memoir by Carly Fiorina

Day to day most all of us find ourselves with the opportunity to lead – whether professionally, personally or within other avenues.  These opportunities may not be obvious at first or come with a fancy title but we partake in them more than we may think. 

Carly Fiorina’s insights about leadership in her memoir made me think.

“Leaders are defined by three things: character, capability and collaboration.  Leaders are candid and courageous; they know their strengths and use them; they bolster their weaknesses by relying on others with complementary skills and by constantly learning and adapting; they know when they need help and seek it; they know when help is required by others, and they provide it.  They have strong peer networks and are not afraid to share with others.  Leaders come in all shapes and sizes and colors from every walk of life and level in an organization.  They can emerge anytime and anywhere, but they are consistent and steady in their actions and approach.”

Although I do not often think of myself as a leader per se, I know that I would be proud to be defined in the context above.  This made me examine how I am doing in the character, capability and collaboration departments.

•  Am I acting with candor and courage?
•  Am I utilizing the strengths that I have been gifted with and accepting the help I need from others?
• How have I adapted and what have I learned this year?  What are my plans for those areas for next year?
• Am I helping others in my pursuits?
• How does my peer network look and do I appreciate that peer network?
• Can my actions be described as consistent and steady?

Hmmm lots to think about.