It was my first year in school. For a few days I was coveting these balls of wool in the cupboard. Don’t ask! I’m not sure why. I do have some vague memory of liking the colours. Then one day I did it. I stole a ball and put it in my school bag!
That night my Mum came to me, holding the ball of wool, and asked: “What’s this for?” I think I just burst into tears. I knew I’d done the wrong thing. I’d been “sprung bad” as we used to say. Pretty much caught red handed!
The instructions were to give it to Mrs Frizzell tomorrow, tell her I’d taken it and say sorry. Oh my! The humiliation couldn’t have been greater! Boy did that teach me a lesson.
Not only is stealing wrong and I felt terribly guilty. But having to fess up and take responsibility for my actions? That felt way worse!
Here’s what I learnt:
About values
- Just because you want it doesn’t mean you can have it.
- You have to take responsibility for your actions.
- Saying sorry matters.
About leadership
- My Mum – held me accountable.
- My teacher, Mrs Frizzell – accepted my apology and never held it against me or mentioned it again (neither did my Mum but I never forgot).
About responsibility
It’s challenging taking responsibility for yourself! Whether you’re a kid stealing a ball of wool, or an adult taking responsibility for your own (and others) performance and career.
A friend who was with me during the wool-stealing era told me recently that she’s too lazy to go for what she really wants. At least she’s honest! She doesn’t want it enough.
Sure you have to work hard.
Sure you have to get out of your comfort zone and get uncomfortable.
But that’s where the growth happens. It’s exciting! It’s the kind of development that’s up there with the best of what life has to offer.
Are you ready to grow? If so, I urge you right now to reach out to me and discuss if you are a fit for my coaching program. I have limited numbers so I can work closely with you to get you to where you want to be.
>>>click here<<<
I have limited space so book a time now to talk with me.
