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When I turned 50, everything changed. I came to understand that the discipline of leading yourself well is the foundation for everything else in life. The standard begins within, not in the marketplace, and this truth has profoundly shaped my journey as a businesswoman, wife, mother, and leader.
āYou are weighty not because of a number that can be measured on a scale, but because your presence creates lift for others.ā
The Power of Alignment and Integrity
Being a businesswoman striving for excellence is not about achieving perfection. Instead, itās about alignment. Itās about ensuring that who you say you are matches how you actually live. This alignment fosters integrity, which is essential for building trust and credibility.
Your presence has the power to create lift for others. Moreover, your discipline brings stability, your warmth provides safety, and your excellence sets new standards. Even your voice can offer clarity in moments of uncertainty.
To lead yourself well, you must be intentional about your focus. Protect your energy, honor your assignments, and extend grace to yourself and others. By doing so, you embody the principle that the standard begins within. This internal discipline is what enables us to lead others effectively.
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The Journey of Self-Leadership
Throughout life, many women take on different roles. However, it is when we lead ourselves well that we can truly reach back and guide others.
Personally, I have been a daughter, a wife, a mother, and a woman working in purpose. Over the years, Iāve served as an executive assistant, executive recruiter, executive producer, and now as an executive editor. Despite these varied roles, one thing has remained constant: my willingness to serve in the capacity required of me at the time.
A Defining Transition at 50
At 50, I made a quiet yet defining transition in my life. I shifted from being a servant leader to becoming a leader with a servantās heart. While this distinction may seem subtle, it changed everything for me.
I once heard a woman say that when women reach this stage, their tone changes. She said it with such seriousness that I couldnāt help but laugh. Although it was an uncomfortable laugh, it signaled the beginning of the next stage of my life.
Growth and Renewal Are Always Possible
The truth is, this realization can come at any age. A scriptural proverb reminds us:
āBe transformed by the renewing of your mind.ā ā Romans 12:2
Growth and renewal are always possible when we lead ourselves well. Itās a journey of alignment, integrity, and purpose.
Related Topics and Resources
Explore more about self-leadership and personal growth on The Narrative Matters.
For additional insights on leadership transitions, visit Harvard Business Review.
DāEricka Stevenson is the Executive Editor of Promena Media
#SelfLeadership #PersonalGrowth #WomenEmpowerment
