Motherhood: My First School of Leadership

 As I reflect on my journey through motherhood, I realize it has been much more than a personal endeavor; it has been my first and most profound school of leadership. The lessons I've learned from raising two spirited boys have seamlessly woven into my professional life, shaping my approach to leadership in ways I never anticipated.

Abraham Lincoln once said, "All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother." This resonates deeply with me. The nurturing, patience, and unwavering support that characterize motherhood are the very foundations upon which great leaders are built. In the journey of motherhood, I've learned to listen actively, to delegate effectively, and to guide rather than impose. These skills are not just vital in parenting; they are essential in leading teams and organizations.

In the intricate dance of motherhood, I've learned the art of generous interpretation. Child psychologist Becky Kennedy, in her book "Good Inside," emphasizes the importance of this approach. It's about understanding behaviors from a place of empathy and compassion, much like when I soothe my sons frustration over a not deserved grade at school. This philosophy translates into a leadership style that fosters a safer, more understanding work environment where a team feels heard and validated.

Then, there's the relentless curiosity of children, the endless "whys" that we often find amusing and sometimes exhausting. Yet, this innate curiosity is a powerful tool in leadership. It reminds me of the "5 Whys" framework used in business for root cause analysis. Asking "why" repeatedly, just like my boys did when they were little, helps in uncovering deeper issues and insights in a professional setting, encouraging a culture of inquisitiveness and problem-solving.

Another significant lesson from motherhood is managing transitions. Parenting experts Kristin Gallant and Deena Margolin emphasize the importance of clear communication during transitions, whether it's moving from playtime to bedtime for a child or shifting from one project to another in the workplace. This skill has been crucial in helping my teams, along my professional life, navigate changes smoothly, reducing stress and enhancing productivity.

As I've grown into my role as a mother, I've embraced leadership behaviors that mirror positive maternal qualities. The realization that leadership is not just about me but about those I lead was stark and transformative. Just as I put my children's needs before mine, in my professional role, my focus turned outward to the needs of my different teams.

Being in step with others, understanding their feelings and perspectives, is another lesson motherhood has bestowed upon me. It's about being attuned to the emotional undercurrents within the team I am leading or working with, just as I am with my sons. This emotional intelligence fosters better communication, collaboration, and trust.

The ethical route, always choosing to support and meet the of those who a work with, has been a guiding principle, both as a mother and a leader. Just as I strive to model ethical behavior for my children, I endeavor to do the same for those who I lead, ensuring job satisfaction and contributing positively to society.

Avoiding micromanagement, allowing my children and those who I work with the space to explore, make mistakes, and learn, has been crucial. It's about trusting in their abilities and strengths, just as I trust in my children's capacity to grow and learn.

Finally, clear communication of expectations, whether at home with my children or at work, ensures that everyone understands their roles and the goals we are working towards. This clarity fosters a sense of direction and purpose.

Motherhood has taught me more about leadership than any formal training or textbook ever could. It has shaped me into a leader who listens, empathizes, and empowers. Just like George Washington attributed his success to his mother, I attribute my growth as a leader to my journey in motherhood. It has been an extraordinary journey of learning, growth, and love - a journey that continues to inspire and guide me in every aspect of my life.