Last week’s post discussed how to overcome roadblocks on the leadership journey by creating actionable plans. Through perseverance, effort, and a little bit of luck the desired leadership destination can be reached. Even if goals change, it is important to celebrate success every step along the way.
Too often we fail to celebrate our successes. This could be due to a feeling of modesty or simple exhaustion from the journey. However, failure to acknowledge the hard work can make the final victory feel hollow. Therefore, it is helpful to plan ways to celebrate success in advance of its arrival.
Consider that when we take a real-life trip, we make efforts to secure it in our memories. For example, photos are taken at important waypoints and with fellow travelers or locals. Souvenirs are acquired to frame memories around specific places. Memorabilia is obtained as a result of events and places visited. All these artifacts serve as ways to remember and reminisce on the journey well after it is over.
As you travel down your leadership pathway, what parts of it are worthy of remembrance? Will it be attending conferences? Will it be specific people? Will specific artifacts be created, like reports or giveaways? Consider in advance what items will help you capture the essence of the journey even before taking the first step.
For example, every time I attend an American Library Association conference or a Public Library Association conference, I bring back a small souvenir such as a shot glass with the name of the city hosting the conference. It is a small memento that unlocks larger memories. Another way I remember milestones comes in recognition plaques. My two Golden Palm Awards, Leadership Palm Beach County graduation document, and master’s degree from the University of Toronto all have a place on the walls of my office. In addition, framed copies of the first page of every feature article I have written for Public Libraries magazine are displayed. All these items help me remember successes and offer inspiration for the future.
What will you acquire on your leadership journey? It is helpful to consider this in advance to ensure you capture them on your travels. Of course, most journeys have unplanned detours, so allow yourself some spontaneous acquisitions when the mood strikes. Anything that may help you celebrate success is worthy of consideration.
I wish you good fortune on your leadership journey. If you missed the other postings in this series, please find links to them below.
Efficient Librarian 