Stop The Guilt!

So many interesting things were said and discussed, but there was one that stood out for me personally. I thought that I would share and expand on it, because I am guessing I am not the only one that it will help. It was sort of one of those ‘Suck It Up’ moments!

The speaker said; “You chose to be a leader and with that choice comes sacrifice”.

Yes, I did know that, but then she went on to say, “so stop feeling guilty and stop complaining about the sacrifices you have to make”.

This mother of three children, a busy business person and someone who travels extensively, then told us about the things that she had to sacrifice in her life, such as her time, her family, her partner, some of her ‘wish list’ etc. “this comes with the job” she said. “You cannot have your cake and eat it too; so enjoy what you have been called to do and stop feeling guilty. The things that you do everyday in your leadership role balance out many of the perceived sacrifices we make”.

How many times have we felt guilty for the sacrifices we have made without thinking about the benefits of what we do? Many of the sacrifices are far bigger in our own minds than in the minds of the people we feel we are letting down.

So, Leaders – you will need to sacrifice for the greater good. Don’t resent it, or feel guilty about it. You are doing something that not many people have the privilege of doing.

Enjoy it and make the best of the moments you have with the people that you care for.

From me to you – You are doing an awesome job!

Des Penny

Founder – Director Innovation, Growth & Strategy