Lessons from a smart a$$ teenager
I like to tell stories…mostly stories on lessons I learn about leadership and culture through everyday life.
So as we head into the end of 2023, I find myself reflecting on my favorite stories and learnings from the year. Many of them come from my teenage daughter, Harper. You see, this kid is smart (sometimes too smart, IYKYK) and we’ve reached a point where I’m learning as much from her as she is from me. So I’m dedicating my December newsletter to her (and revisiting some Harper-ific insights that have shaped my year).
Lesson #1: The power of connection in a remote work environment IS possible
Harper and her best friend from Arizona met for the first time in person this year after 7 years (met through a mutual friend on Minecraft). Prior to that, they'd only ever been able to communicate online. 7 years of becoming best friends virtually!! It was amazing to see how immediately comfortable they were with each other.
This experience underlines that remote work can foster strong connections within teams. I challenge CEOs and Founders to rethink the rush back to full-time in-person work, considering potential downsides like decreased morale and innovation, less diversity, and missing top talent.
My suggestion: blend remote and in-person work with creative retreats.
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, and virtual connections are real!
Lesson #2: Leading with proactive empathy means wearing two hair ties
One day I asked Harper why she wore two hair ties on her wrist every day. She told me this was in case any of her friends needed a hair tie, she always had an extra to give.
Okay, can I just say this is about the dang-near sweetest thing I’ve heard from her? 🥰 🤗
But Harper's practice of wearing two hair ties on her wrist can teach us a valuable lesson about leadership and proactive empathy. Here's what we can learn from it:
Anticipating Needs: Harper's got that extra hair tie because she's got her friends covered. As leaders, we should do the same – anticipate what our team might need and offer help before they even ask for it. It's all about being there for your team.
Empathy in Action: Those hair ties are like a symbol of Harper's care for her friends. In leadership, showing empathy and genuine concern for your team is key. So, wear your own "empathy hair tie" and let your team know you've got their backs.
Lesson #3: Rituals prep your team to melt faces off
Harper's audition prep is all about the braids. They're like her superhero cape, getting her ready to rock her ginormous instrument and melt faces off. Musicians and athletes alike tend to develop rituals that help them get into the right headspace when it's time to perform.
Rituals aren't just for individuals; they're the superglue for teams too. They pump you up, connect you, and prep you for action. From team standups to storytelling sessions, it's all fair game. Rituals can be anything that brings a team together and gears them up for victory.
Embrace them, get creative, and let them work their magic.
Lesson #4: You don’t have big shoes to fill, you’re wearing the right size
Remember Harper's journey through the audition maze? She made it to the orchestra but had a bout of imposter syndrome. We've all been there - new job jitters, promotions that feel like they fell from the sky, or sitting in a conference room full of men and you’re the only female who has to talk just a little bit louder to be heard.
Just last week, I was a bucket of nerves before a speech. Harper reminded me that I made it where I was because I deserved to be…just like everyone else who was there. We all walked the same journey to get there, in our own shoes. And guess what…they’re just the right size. Now get out there and kick some ass (yes, she did say that).
In conclusion to a lovely 2023…
It’s been a big year for me. I’ve started a business, taken up new hobbies, became a certified coach, re-invented said business, and quit other hobbies. But the biggest lesson?
Intentionally putting my ear to the ground and listening to the lessons from those around me, especially my teenage sage, Harper. Here's to another year of side-splitting wisdom from my genius-in-training.
Happy holiday vibes,
Marnie (and Harper)
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💖🎧🎵 I help companies with culture and people operations without stepping on their vibe.
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