• …Like learning to drive, and turning the wheel to fast or hitting the brake too hard and then doing the complete opposite?

• He makes a plan, works his plan, dots i’s crosses, t’s, and always delivers before the deadline.
• If you have a question about a project, he’s researched it, and has a file full of information that can help you.

The challenge is that he is not an attention seeker and he doesn’t fight for the spotlight.

• His nature is to speak up when it seems appropriate, but if you don’t listen – you miss his wisdom, and he will react a bit like a turtle and pull his head inside his shell.
•  For years he quietly added significant value to the organization he worked in.
• But most of that value was hidden below the surface far deeper and wider than what could be seen at a glance.

So when a layoff eventually happened…

• The decision makers did not recognize the depth of his contributions and he was released.

• He began to realize how critical it was to speak up.

And just like learning to drive – he overcorrected.

• Sometimes with volume, sometimes with data, sometimes hammering so hard on an issue that it drove people away.

• He’s working to grow beyond his comfort zone.
• And he’s become more and more effective at it.

1. Don’t do it out of fear.
2. Don’t do it without explanation.

1. Hold tightly to the vision of what you are trying to achieve and how it will change your life.
2. Remind yourself of who you are and the value of what you bring.
3. Be open about what you are trying to learn.
4. Remember that over-correction is a normal part of learning and give yourself grace.
5. Don’t give up.

• When to be a candle and when to be a beacon
• Leading your new boss and your “old” one

Image credits: Ace Concierge