I realized about two years ago that a leadership role was in my future. It was just a feeling that began to take over me as I became more confident in my work role and my ability step outside of my comfort zone. I was coming into a sense of no longer being an apprentice, but a subject matter expert. I was being called on by the higher ups to make final editorial decisions, and was taking others under my wing and sharing my experiences and best practices with them. I saw the change happening and was amazed at who I was becoming.I'm a nice, sweet, kind, gentle soul....I hate it sometimes, but it's who I am. But as nice as I am, there's a fierce leader inside of me. I often surprise myself when I have no reservations about expressing differing opinions in meetings; offering to do something a totally new way; asking for help when I need it to ensure I provide quality products. I never considered these to be leadership qualities. But they are.
I bought See Jane Lead a year ago, read the first two chapters, and put it down to tend to some of my more pressing life issues. Last week, I went to my bookshelf on a search for an unfinished good read and picked up where I left off. So much has changed in the past year, and this book is even more relevant to me now. I've been promoted and with that have received more responsibility and the designation by my peers as the "go-to" person for editing and writing related issues. I've come a long way. There are times when I beat myself up, thinking I'm unmotivated or that I'm too lazy for my own good. But when I sit back and think of the work I've done and the risks I've taken to get to this point.....I smile. Jennifer did it. And will continue to do so.
I don't think this book is just for women, the subjects Lois Frankel discusses can be applied to anyone in the workplace who desires to attain a leadership role. Check it out, you'll learn about the following topics:
I'll give it a look.
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