And, for that—I must say—Congratulations!
I intend this post to be an encouragement, but also to serve as a warning of sorts.
The quietness of the new norm can make you think you’re no longer appreciated. If you’re not careful, you’ll begin to doubt your abilities or the success you are still having.
Those emotions—and the reactions to them—are normal, even if they aren’t true.
I’m not ignoring times when you aren’t doing your best. Don’t be an unaware leader.
I’m not trying to convince you not to be normal. That would be abnormal of me.
I am encouraging you to seek your affirmation beyond the verbal praise of man.
I am saying if you live for the praise of others, you’ll eventually be controlled by their praise (or lack thereof).
And I am reminding you—you may be doing everything right, but seldom hear all the good you’re doing.
This is part of leadership. And, the leader who can lead just as passionately toward a noble goal, without the praise of others—even perhaps in times when criticism seems more dominant—is on track for success.
Facing your own sobering reality? Have you ever been in a “normal” season of producing good work, but not feeling valued for it?
