Who doesn't appreciate a little external validation every now and then?
Whether it’s the buzz from a glowing review, the excitement of a promotion, or even the thrill of seeing your name in lights, external recognition can feel amazing.
Riding the Rollercoaster of Self-Belief
I once worked with a client who was on an emotional rollercoaster. When she received great feedback, she soared. But when she got constructive criticism, she crashed. Her self-image and motivation were completely tied to how others saw her. Like many emerging executives, she was so focused on establishing her professional identity at this level that there was little room left for self-exploration.
The Critical Role of Self-Awareness
A telling statistic from the Stanford Graduate School of Business’s Advisory Council highlights this challenge. When 75 members were asked which leadership capability was most important to develop, nearly all pointed to one quality: self-awareness. Understanding who you truly are can be the difference between short-term success and long-term fulfillment.
Balancing Extrinsic and Intrinsic Motivations
Sustaining high levels of motivation requires a clear grasp of what drives you. There are two key types of motivation:
Extrinsic Motivation: Driven by external rewards like praise, promotions, or public recognition.
Intrinsic Motivation: Rooted in your personal values, life story, and the deeper meaning you find in growth, helping others, and contributing to social causes.
When your focus is overly tilted toward external validation, you might as well be riding a never-ending rollercoaster. The trick is finding that balance where external rewards inspire you without overwhelming your inner drive.
The Road to Balance
When my client and I began our work together, we delved into the underlying drivers of her experiences. By creating space to explore her core values and defining moments, she gradually shifted her focus away from constant external feedback. This inner work helped her establish a balanced sense of self, and soon, the feedback she received reflected a more authentic and centered presence.
Embracing Real Leadership
Our work with leaders and executive teams centers on discovering intrinsic motivations, clarifying purpose, and unveiling who you are at your best. The transformation is remarkable - teams become more engaged, motivated, and connected when they lead from a place of self-awareness and authenticity.
If you're ready to step off the rollercoaster and lead with genuine authenticity and confidence, connect with us now.
#RealLeadership #IntrinsicLeadership #TheRoadToBalance #SelfAwareness
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