Ready to Feel Respected?

High achievers get the job done. They often work hard, make smart connections, and do what it takes to excel.

Yet, when my high-achieving clients come to me they are overwhelmed, scattered, and feel unfit for leadership. They don’t believe they have the right leadership skills and attributes to create impact within and outside their organization.

And, as a result, they don’t feel respected by others.

But they had a solution in mind. They hoped that with some more experience, expertise, and tenure they would then get respect. So they kept working hard, they did what they thought it would take to excel, and they waited, and waited, and waited. 

Because after all they believed that with more respect comes more influence and impact in our day and career. And I agree.

Respect is critical to positive long-lasting influence. And there are many steps we take with our clients to develop their character, competencies, presence, and leadership style.  However, healthy respect doesn’t come from proving ourselves to others and waiting our turn.  It comes from respecting ourselves and trusting our decisions. It starts with us. 

Do you respect yourself as a leader? Do you acknowledge your accomplishments, experiences, skills, and what you have overcome? This isn’t about boasting. It’s not about showboating. It’s about showing respect and not downplaying the person you have become over your career. 

If you don’t respect yourself as a person and as a leader, then others likely won’t either.

With humility and kindness simply begin to see your wins and acknowledge your abilities.  From having that difficult conversation, to receiving your masters or passing that exam, to intentionally saying yes (and no) to opportunities, to stepping outside your comfort zone. Or making the decision to spend more time with your children, to set your boundaries, stand in your truth, and trust your judgment.

Build respect for the decisions you have made in your career, and the decisions you make on a daily basis. This acknowledgment and celebration will take you out of the story that you are not respected so you can create the space to believe in yourself as a leader.

Respect starts here, with you.

And others will catch on fast. 

Christy Venza is the Founder of Career Loved, a career coaching firm specializing in leading-edge strategies for high-achievers. To read more articles by Christy, visit www.careerloved/blog.

Photo Source: Photo by Renee Fisher on Unsplash