We don’t know what we’re capable of until we have a go either under our own steam or prompted/pushed by events. Too often we ‘stay in our lane’, staying safe, doing what we know and looking to consistently improve in that space. The responsibilities in our life – personal and professional – can keep us contained, our talents constrained.
If we find ourselves in this space we could well heed the words of Nelson Mandela: ‘There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than one you are capable of living.’
In the spirit of these words we may find a new meaning for our leadership and the courage to explore, to pioneer, to spread our wings and expand our influence beyond the usual boundaries in which we operate.
We can start by stepping into a mind-set of system – seeing our organisation and the wider world as a system in which all is interdependent and interconnected. Once seen we cannot unsee this reality. Instead we must work with it.
In organisational life that brings new and deeper reflection into our decision making and problem solving. It can prompt us to consider collaborative working afresh, to be more generous with our time and resources – understanding that each move we make affects others – to explore, with curiosity, areas outside our comfort zone and share our perspective.
At a higher and broader level we may start to consider the contribution of our organisation in the wider world. Is it stuck in self and shareholder interest or contributing to the creation of a better world for all, serving the greater good? And if the former, what challenge can we bring to orient toward more positive impact?
Moving to this higher level of conscious awareness, of stepping out of our lane, is essential if we are to tackle the challenges facing our world and create something better, for now and for future generations. If we all stepped out and up imagine the possibilities. Surely that’s worth the risk?