Steve Holliday
As I headed south on the train last night from Newcastle, having just met a number of new colleagues, I had a sense that all the big relationships I had been going for had come off. In fact they were even richer than I’d anticipated…….and you know what…..it felt exhilarating. How had I made this happen and what had my impact on others been? I sat with these questions for some while and journaled these thoughts………
Before my meetings my energy had been bouncing between excitement about what I hoped to achieve mixed with some anxiety about the unknown and how it might go. I had wondered whether they would like me, whether I would show up at my best and whether I was good enough! Playing with such feelings and thoughts was important; it helped me to re-connect with who I am when I am powerful and it was then this simple – I went for it – without knowing the end result, but guided by a future I’m passionate about.
This reflection also meant that when I met my new colleagues I was committed and engaging – listening well and paying attention to them, acknowledging them for what they were bringing and saying. The phrase “I see you” springs to mind here – where you acknowledge another person for all that they bring physically, emotionally and spiritually and that is how I felt I was being during those important first encounters.
I also noticed that during those initial ‘getting to know you’ conversations I had stayed true to what I stood for and believed in while also being very open to what my colleagues wanted. This sense of exploring possibility and building something together felt rather like the start of a voyage where despite the uncertainties ahead we were able to generate an early sense of confidence, belief and commitment.
I shared my feelings with Martin, a close friend and fellow leader, and his response made me smile as I passed Sheffield – why isn’t it like this all the time? It’s effortless.
My own sense of an answer to this is that it can be if we choose it. But in order for that to occur we have to pay real attention to ourselves, our relationships and the exciting futures we’re passionate about. And while we may not always get it right it becomes so much more likely when we are ready every day to practise showing up at our best.
Leadership nudge: How well do you know yourself at your absolute best? Have you got a great support network to help you understand this? How often do you remind yourself of how great you are, at your best?
By Steve Holliday
Senior Safety Behavioural Coach, EHS
Energy Sector UK, SIEMENS PLC UK
Learn more about the author of this article, Steve Holliday
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