The things I refuse to believe
"Don't be discouraged. It's often the last key in the bunch that opens the lock." Anonymous
I always admired those leaders whose belief stood alone in the room and who were right in their belief. I viewed that as bravery, intellect, drive, and vision and I tried hard to emulate it. I did achieve this a few times - allowing the room to speak and share their thoughts and disbelief. I would then counter. Of course, as with any leadership role, I worked hard to gain their trust and confidence in me through my words and deeds. Coupled with this was my conviction to see a mission through.
Self-doubt and limiting beliefs may have poisoned a discussion or brought us to a halt but it was my duty to lead my team through the proverbial swamp to the place we were trying to get. I had sufficient knowledge and confidence in the direction we were headed, our ability to overcome an obstacle, or to know that a solution was possible. In these cases I stated my refusal to believe we could not succeed. I found it to be a powerful statement of confidence that a solution existed and that I was hell-bent to find it or have my team find it.
I refuse to believe that a company cannot achieve both greater diversity and hire talented people. It is hard work indeed, but, by stating this, I place the challenge on my team to achieve what I know to be achievable.
I'm working with a group of selfless people in my community who desire to sponsor an Afghan family. It is hard work as they will likely arrive with only the clothes on their back and a handful of belongings. Our discussions are crowded with limiting beliefs; "where are we going to find that...?" "What if they...?" "Who will...?" Housing is our current challenge but I refuse to believe there is not a sufficient house available today and a person willing to sacrifice to allow this family a shot at life.
My refusal to believe works often when I know that another person or organization has faced and overcome a challenge similar to ours, especially if it is a like organization. This is true in so many cases. Someone else, some other organization has faced this problem before and overcome it, or they would not be in existence. Find that person or persons and learn from them.
I refuse to believe you cannot find fulfilling work.
I refuse to believe we cannot come together and find some common ground.
I refuse to believe you cannot become debt-free.
I refuse to believe...
Add some refusal to your leadership. You'll be bringing the conviction and confidence your team needs. You'll challenge them, as you should, to persevere, to problem solve, to slog harder through that swamp. The needle can actually be found in that stack of hay.
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell