Earlier in my career, I spoke for UCLA and this was going to be a career-making presentation. There were decision-makers from the LA Times, Macy’s and Mastercard.
I remember thinking at the time, “If I do a great job of this, I’m set for life.”
I was so nervous, I arrived at 6:00 AM—determined not to let LA traffic derail my future. Not long after, a woman showed up at 7:00 AM for the same reason and we struck up a conversation about our kids.
Turns out, she was the head of training for Macy’s!
As we talked, it was so crystal clear to me, “This is not the head of training for Macy’s. This a person who wants to connect. She wants to learn something of value, with no pretense.”
That moment has helped me keep perspective ever since.
We are not our labels or our roles or our resumes… We are people. We all care about the same thing… Connection.
When we drop the façade, aim to connect authentically, understand what matters in the long run, and stay centered in that, the rest is just fluff.
ACTION
Have you ever felt intimidated by someone’s title or status?
Think back on that scenario… If you shifted your perspective from intimidated to interested, how would you have approached them differently – if you saw them simply as a person with their own fears, hopes, and dreams?
Before your next big meeting, event, or interaction, take a deep breath and remind yourself: I am here to connect, not to impress.
P.S. Want to connect with me + 11 other brilliant people to get clear on your priorities? If so, you may enjoy my upcoming CLARITY WEEKEND at my home in Austin, TX. Reply here for info.