Belong as a real partner? Be a 15-year-old boy, in a suit at Kroger’s, buying Tampons on a Friday afternoon. Embarrassed… but there I was. I found my first real partner at 15. A debate partner. Before I could think anything all the way through, there was someone across the table challenging me…which if you know me, I need a lot 😉
Nobody tells you this about partner … it is a choice you keep making, not a seat you fill. As she was off winning the Oratory contest for the 10th time, I needed to do this so we could make it our debate round that was right after it. We won the tournament… and it was not the only time either of these would happen. While very different at every level, we played to each other’s strengths.
My new partner Craig has spent his life in bands, and he has played with Hootie & the Blowfish. 4 guys who met in college in Columbia in 1986. Hiatus, reunions, 40 years … and the same 4 are still a band. Talent never held a band together. Choosing each other did. You can hear it in Only Wanna Be with You … the sound of a group that wanted to be exactly where it was, with exactly those people… looking hard at who is on stage with you, and choosing them on purpose, again.
Who is on your list? Who would do exactly what you needed done, even if it was embarrassing… without being asked, without expecting anything in return. Most leaders I work with eventually come up with a few, but the list is short. You picked most of your people on purpose, so you may already know the answer. The real question is whether you have ever told them.
I have had amazing women leaders and partners.. My early exposure working with powerful women ensured their talents are leveraged – not weaker, not stronger – partners. Seeing and doing things often differently… and better in many ways. It is why I actively supported Women in Technology. As my sons kidded me, ‘Dad… you’re not a woman.” Yes… and you build partners before you need them. With an amazing daughter in ministry, and 3 granddaughters, my commitment is only stronger.
That girl became an amazing woman leader at many different organizations. And shortly after that interaction, she talked me into running for Student Body President of our 2500 student school… Only she believed I could do it… and when I won, it changed my life.
Your Simple… Not Easy move: name 1 partner today and tell them, plainly, why you would choose them again. Not the work they did …them. We can help you build them to drive your business now and provide for the support you will need. Link below to book 30 minutes.
My debate partner… my new partner… 4 guys in college… exactly where they were, with each other … Only Wanna Be with You.
