As living organisms, we are designed to grow, not just physically but in many other aspects, if you are not growing, you are dying, albeit slowly. To become your authentic self, there are processes that life requires you go through, one of such is to grow out of boxes that society or persons have placed you in. To become, you need to live the life you have been created to live and not what others have created for you.
When the process of growing out of a box starts, you definitely will meet with resistance, this can come in many ways; criticisms, hampered growth etc. I have learnt the best way to deal with this is not to create another level of resistance – (it would become like a tug of war and the stronger or more powerful party will surely win) but chart my own path in a beautiful and amazing win-win situation.
I have learnt to GaG ‘em; that is to show Guts and Grace.
Guts:
Guts is seen as “having the courage to do” by the Dictionary.com and defined also as the “fortitude and stamina in coping with what alarms, repels, or discourages” by Merriam -Webster dictionary. When you decide to grow out of age-long perceptions or challenge the cultural status quo, you are taking a big risk; you need GUTS. When you ask your team to do the new and radical you must be courageous. Having guts is not for the faint hearted , It is for those that are determined to create the new, make a change to the way things are done, grow out of societal norms and chart a different path for themselves. It is for those that want to change the course of history, it is for those that desire to be successful and leave a legacy.
Our fears and doubts will try to hold us back once we allow it, nevertheless, have you heard about the phrase ‘ Do it afraid” or even the Nike Phrase “ Just Do It” ? these phrases speak to the Giants in each and every one of us.
Are there projects that have proven to be so challenging that they have become farfetched?, are there things you have desired as an individual to start but you are held by the words of others and your fears?’
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DO IT AFRAID
As you go ahead to change history, remember that you would need people: your family, friends, foes etc. People are the most important resource in the matrix and that’s the reason why you must show grace.
Grace:
Grace as used here refers to your attitude to criticism and your ability to persuade people to follow your way. This is defined as “a charming or attractive trait or characteristic”, also defined as a “controlled, polite, and pleasant way of behaving or skills that are needed for behaving in a polite way in social situations’ by Merriam-Webster dictionary.
Working the charm is as important as being audacious and courageous with your goals. You really shouldn’t boss people around even when you are in the position to so do. A true leader leads from behind and is only seen in front when there is trouble – these are the words of Nelson Mandela. You must balance out your big push for a change with charm and humility. You must be graceful to your team and to the people who can help you make it happen.
You must learn Charisma and practice this. You must have your team believe in you and know they can follow you to the ends of the world. You need grace to achieve much. How do you show grace? Learn to be kind but firm when you are making the change, learn the art of persuasion and be true to self.
Go conquer! Have Guts and Show Grace.
Written by Oge Funlola Modie
ABOUT OGE FUNLOLA MODIE
Oge is a published author, writer and speaker. She is the Editor and writer of GetFearlessly AuthenticTM Newsletter, a personal leadership newsletter that chronicles her life as a professional. She is involved in causes for women, young people and the vulnerable. She loves to read comics, watch comedy flicks, listen to music and play golf. Shares her love threefold- Love for God, Love for People, Love for Country. www.ogemodie.com
