The Power of Investing in Yourself and Finding Champions
One might argue that there isn’t a more thrilling adventure to embark on than that of a leadership journey. Learning to step into your own power, find growth opportunities, and develop a new sense of self-worth are all incredible aspects of the path to being an efficient leader. However, two key elements oftentimes get overlooked - they are the importance of self-investment and the ability to seek out champions beyond your inner circle. Today, we will explore the transformative impact of investing in yourself, the art of asking for what you need to be successful, and the value of connecting with a mentor.
Self-Investment
First and foremost, you must view yourself as a valuable asset in an ever-changing market. In order to remain relevant and competitive in your respective field, you MUST continuously invest in furthering your knowledge and skills. There are many ways to do this. Here are a few common ones:
Attend workshops or conferences related to your field
Enroll in online courses to enhance your skills
Read articles and books that challenge your perspective
Keep in mind that the more you invest in yourself, the higher your leadership stock will rise! A recent article by Forbes states that just 15 to 30 minutes of self-investment per day is enough to build up your knowledge and skills.
Asking for What You Need
An effective leader knows and understands the power of clear, concise communication. This means that you shouldn’t be afraid to articulate your needs regarding your overall business goals and aspirations. For instance, if there is a particular skill you wish to develop or a project that you are passionate about, express it to your team and others in your field who may be able to assist you. Seeking opportunities for growth and development benefits not only you but your business as well. Always remember the old saying that closed mouths don’t get fed. Speak up and allow your ambitions to be known.
It’s also to note that a study conducted by Training Industry in 2019 showed an annual ROI of 415% with leadership development training. That comes out to a return on investment of about $4.15 for every $1 spent on continued training.
Seeking a Champion
While it may be a habit to refer to your managing team for go-to guidance, it is also important to expand your supportive network. In other words, seek out a champion! This person should be someone who is outside of your inner circle and can provide a fresh set of eyes and unbiased advice. Here are a few key traits to look for in your champion.
Someone who:
Believes in your potential
Advocates for your success
Offers guidance without any vested interests
Having a champion in your corner can be a game-changer for your journey to effective leadership.
Mentoring without Boundaries
There is no denying that internal mentors are valuable. However, considering the benefits of an outside mentor is something worth your time. Diverse perspectives and experiences are what you will get when you seek assistance or advice from an external mentor. They may have insights that are not readily available within your business. So, how can you find a mentor outside of your company? Here are a few tips:
Attend networking events
Connect with professionals by leveraging online platforms
Join an association within your industry
Ask Yourself This
Here are a few questions to ask yourself that can help you on your journey to efficient leadership:
Are you currently using resources to further your knowledge or skill set?
What steps can you take to expand your network?
How can you communicate your needs and aspirations more effectively?
Wrapping Up
Stepping up your leadership game involves more than just being the boss. It requires a commitment to self-investment, using your voice to let your aspirations be known, and seeking wisdom from external mentors. By following the aforementioned steps, you will boost your leadership potential and contribute to a workplace culture that is centered around organization and growth. So, go ahead, invest in yourself, ask for assistance when needed, and find the champions who can help propel you to new heights!
To learn more about becoming an effective leader within your company, get in touch with our team of experts today!