As this year comes to a close, it’s often a time for reflection and to start to think about how 2012 is going to be your next big year. In reflection of some themes I’ve been thinking about, the fast Friday quote of the week this week comes from Russian/American philosopher and author of Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand:
“The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me?”
One of my take-aways from this year is that there’s lots of things about work that just aren’t working. People are overstretched, senior executives are out of touch and amazing leaders are checking out because the cost-benefit of leadership isn’t worth it.
In 2012, I’d like to challenge all next generation executives to start to take ownership, step out of the box and begin to change the game around how we’re leading our organizations. It is possible to have a highly successful organization that makes money without needing to grind people to pieces. It is possible that leadership can be exciting and enjoyable. It is possible that you can be doing something that you love, get paid well and make a huge difference to those around you.
Don’t hold yourself small. Don’t stop taking risks. Don’t stop challenging the status quo. To coin Seth Godin’s term, don’t be afraid to go do something… don’t be afraid to poke the box. Work isn’t working and as Gen X and Gen Y leaders start to take the helm in organizations, it’s time we stood up and make the changes that we know need to happen actually happen.
Let’s make 2012 the beginning of something exciting.
