When was the last time you took a bet on people?
When was the last time you said yes to taking on a job even if you are not sure you can do it? A job that stretches imagination, challenges spirit, exhaust passion, and expects a 101% from you and than some more.
Betting on me. It was my 2nd day in GE Crotonville. The manager for the Management Development Course had resigned abruptly and the program was starting next week. This program includes a session with Jack Welch.
"Could you take over the program", Steve Kerr, my boss asked.
I thought, "Huh? What? This 4 -week program? You got to be kidding?" In that split second, the amygdala in my brain releases stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, preparing me for fight or flight. My heart rate jumps, palms get sweaty and the amygdala logs the neural pathway to the prefrontal cortex. Decision-making ability goes awry, as does the capacity to be calm and balance.
Before I could blurt out "Why me!", I asked a question "Say more?"
It was a ploy to put distance between thought and action.
I was buying time to think!
So what if I have no idea what to do or how to do.
Boss will help. Team will help. I will learn!
Just say yes.
Take a bet on myself!
Inhale...exhale...And now, calmly, say YES!
A week later I was introducing the class to Jack Welch.
Betting on people. I offered my employee a job well beyond his current pay grade. It was a 'battlefield commission"- his manager had left suddenly. He said he was not ready, didn't have the experience and lack the confidence. I agreed. But I still wanted him to take the job. Why? Because he had 3 out of 4 qualities that will make him outstanding for the role. Passion for the job, relationships with stakeholders, and operationally excellent. The only quality missing is Self-Belief.
"I am making a bet on you based on this assessment." I asked him, "Will you bet on yourself?"
He did. Accepted the role and after some teething pains, went on to excel. Soon he got a bigger job and continued to thrive. A few years later, he accepted a big role in Microsoft. Today he is founder & CEO of a thriving business.
Are you betting on yourself? So you can challenge your limits and race pass it. When you take a bet on self, you demonstrate belief, confidence plus a big desire. Then a bet on you is as close to a sure thing as you'll ever get.
So the next time someone offers you an amazing opportunity, and you hesitate, that's OK. Think, analyse, and if these can give you the answers you seek, great.
But sometimes the only thing that works is to do what we did when we were five year olds. Close our eyes, make a wish and jump forward, never back.
Don't fake it.
Just do it.
Go all in!
Sir Branson is right! Say YES!
Strategic Business Transformation | Organisation Development | #EveryWorkerMatters
6yInspiring article. Seems like I need to take a bet on myself.
Medical device regulatory affairs professional turned beginner in education sector - learning, improving and evolving.
6yI placed a bet on myself recently because the hiring manager has faith in my ability. As someone who grew up under parents with traditional asian values, this acceptance on my part is a big leap of faith. Thank you for writing this article. It is like a booster shot to my self-believe. I know that any thorny task placed in my hands will unravel because it is proven repeatedly in both my work life and private life. Having the right attitude is important. Like what my mama always say, given every task at hand your 100% commitment and always seek to improve because nothing is cast in stone.
Transforming Careers | Empowering Professionals | Inspiring Results
6yYES! I say yes, we must stretch beyond our own comfort zone to help our people and ourselves grow. That is essential!
Cyber Security| Leveraging AI for Comprehensive Managed Services | Data Resilience | Safeguarding Businesses from Evolving Threats | Passionate about Securing Digital Assets 💪🔐★ LBFalumni ★ L.I.O.N ★ SkyHighTower
6ysometime will had to bet on instinct, my 3-year old will just jump without hesitation