The Challenge to Be and Not to Do

Preface

I have the privilege of working with adult learners in a number of ­capacities. Whether it is working as a lecturer at a university, coaching or working with teams, departments, or whole organizations in my role as an organi­zation development practitioner, the same lack of ­confidence in talent and our unique self is universal. Even the seemingly most self-absorbed individuals who apparently appear oblivious to their weaknesses are filled with the most crushing aspects of self-doubt.

I stand in front of leadership groups exhorting them to BE the best leader they can be and I get worried looks and gallows humor. To stand in front of a group of individuals in corporate life and declare that I am awesome—I am by the way—is met with suspicion ...