I have an ego.
I want to be liked.
So, while I tried not to pay attention to how many people read the re-launch Bald in Business post, the temptation eventually won out.
The answer was humbling.
At the time I am writing this, only about 50 people read that post.
To be clear, I am not looking for a pat on the back, or encouragement. While I crave that kind of stuff just like everyone reading this does, that’s not the point here.
The point is that writing a blog has uncovered a deep-seated desire to be liked inside my soul. And I could be wrong, but I’d imagine that I am not alone in feeling this way.
Lying in bed a few weeks ago – where I often think about this stuff – I came to the conclusion that it is probably best that I don’t have 500, or 1,000, people reading each post. As cool as that might be, it probably wouldn’t be healthy for me at this stage of my writing journey.
And it’s humbling admitting this for all to see.
While I don’t think I seek approval in my leadership, or parenting, the ugly reality is that I do there as well.
This experience has me re-evaluating how much I do. How many of my decisions are based on what others will think instead of what I know is right and best?
What about you?
All 50 of you. =)
This is uncomfortable, so it is easy to ignore.
Don’t.
Get comfortable being uncomfortable.
Examine your own leadership and become aware of where you are seeking the approval of others.
(By the way, this experience helped me clarify two reasons why I write this blog. First, I enjoy writing. Second, I like helping people. So, if this helps one person, and only 3 people read it, mission achieved! I just have to keep remembering this lesson. I haven’t learned it yet by any means).