A bout a leader

A bout a leader

When I do my individual immersive training (in the field mentoring), I title the days we work together “bouts”, such as a boxing ring. The reason I do this, is because anywhere you work, there will be some type of opposition or struggle that you will butt heads against. That reality is no different for those who are entrepreneurs or self-employed. Let take this for example. 

We like to paint CEOs/leaders with a pretty fine brush. Someone who shows up in a nice car, nice suit, nice briefcase: you get the picture. Someone that you think is put together.  But it is what is under the facade that allows one to actually operate at high level, not just look the part. 

There is a subtle fight everyday to keep the company succeeding. If you’ve ever spent any time in a ring/octagon, you realize real quick you have to cover up or get hit in the face, grind the opponent down and wait for the opportunity. You’ve got to be present with consequences and play both defense and offense. 

The ring of leadership is not much different. But in this ring instead of a jab-jab, kidney punch, right hooks, we encounter people who backstab, gossip ,cut corners, blame others, spread criticism, and steal credit. We fight our own doubts, and uncertainty that our direction will actually pay off. 

The willingness to get into this ring, takes authentic courage and grit no matter what level you reside on. 

There are almost no words to describe the feeling when the metaphorical combo of blood and sweat drips from your face, when the adversity begins to doubt itself, when and you are able to smile and show up, again and again. Because, what truly brings a leader to the table is the look of substance and strength in the face. The real deal, not a fine polished briefcase. 

That’s what we build on bouts.