Jane Benston

Most of us are familiar with those nagging thoughts that tell us we are not good enough, that cast doubt on our goals and undermine our accomplishments.

Vulnerability and leadership are not usually words or concepts that we put together.

Have you ever wondered why some leaders achieve success more rapidly than others? It is not purely because they are more talented, better looking, have better ideas or have the best strategic plans.

Successful teams who consistently achieve superior results are filled with highly motivated, engaged team members who approach their job with energy, enthusiasm and creativity.

It saddens me to walk into meetings with leadership teams to find the disproportionate representation of men and women on the team.

When you think back to your last performance appraisal, did your manager spend much time speaking about your strengths and achievements? For most of us, the focus during such appraisals is often on our weaknesses and “areas of improvement”.

Have you ever thought, ‘If I work hard, I will get noticed and will soon be promoted and get the pay rise I deserve?’ Unfortunately career and leadership success and moving your way up the corporate ladder does not only come through hard work.

It’s possible this country is suffering from an epidemic of people feeling bored, stuck and unfulfilled by the work they do.

At some stage during our careers we all need to have difficult conversations.

Have you ever found yourself going through the motions at work, where one year rolls into the next and you find yourself settling for just getting through the day, month or even the year? I was reflecting over the summer break that some years ago this was my lot in life.

Being the most successful person in the room is not about being the smartest or the best educated.

Is your lack of confidence and self-belief killing your opportunities at work? Having confidence in yourself, your abilities and your capabilities to excel in your work matters.