Last week I found a letter at my Mum’s house, written when I was about seven. It’s full of spelling mistakes, crossed-out words and dodgy grammar, but it gave me something to think about. Forget the “what would you write to your younger self?“ exercise and try “what can I learn from my younger self?”.
1. Be fully present
The letter was all about the day, no multitasking, no distractions, no analysis, no looking forward or backwards, just being in the moment.
Our day to day busyness means that most of us are never really in the moment and never really present, although it is THE biggest gift we can give both to ourselves and to others. In leadership real attention is rare, but when it’s there, it is hugely powerful.
2. Say how you really feel
“I was so scared,” no hiding it, no pretending otherwise, just the truth.
People can often spot a fake face or behaviour which doesn’t match the words. In teams, honesty and authenticity create safety and connection. As a leader, showing your vulnerability doesn’t make you look weak, it helps you build trust.
3. Pay attention to the small stuff
Everything is wonder-worthy, big and small.
In business it’s easy to focus on the big things, but culture is built through loads of small moments that matter. These are the things which people remember long after the big deal has been forgotten.
4. Do it anyway
Despite the fear, a kid still rides on the ghost train and then gets straight onto another ride.
Action comes before confidence and not the other way round. If you wait until you feel 100% ready, you waste a shedload of time and risk completely missing the moment.
5. Show you care without overthinking it
A simple loving sign off from a child who knows that lots of kisses work magic.
Showing you care is simple, compassion and empathy belong in the workplace and you have loads of opportunities every day to show you care. Don’t miss them.
What would your seven year old self remind you to do more of today?
