In a recent class on fostering collaboration, we had the privilege of hearing from Congresswoman Val Demings. She shared valuable lessons from her experiences as the former Police Chief of the City of Orlando and a House of Representatives congresswoman for Florida. Her insights shed light on the importance of collaboration and the qualities that make a strong leader.
One of the critical lessons Congresswoman Demings shared was the phrase, “Never tire of doing good,” which she learned from her parents. This powerful message resonates with the idea that dedication to positive change requires perseverance and a commitment to making a difference.
Demings emphasized that one should never be limited by “I can never be because I never was.” She stressed that anyone can achieve goals and impact with courage, preparation, and opportunity. Merely desiring to lead is not enough; understanding your “why” is crucial. Your purpose and passion will sustain you through challenging times.
For Demings, her “why” is being a protector. As a police chief or a congresswoman, she has been driven by a deep sense of responsibility to safeguard and serve her community.
During the class, Demings highlighted women’s unique challenges in leadership roles, sharing that women are often asked seven times to consider stepping outside their comfort zones, even when the world calls for their leadership. This underscores the importance of fostering an environment that empowers women to embrace their leadership potential and contribute their perspectives and expertise.
Collaboration and camaraderie are essential in my work with Dr. Jack. We identify solutions together and then allocate tasks based on our strengths to tackle problems. In my experience volunteering on nonprofit boards, I have also encountered situations where fostering collaboration can be challenging. Understanding someone’s intentions and perspectives can pave the way for collaboration and overcome barriers to progress.
In those public settings, navigating the dynamics of different personalities is crucial. While maintaining transparency, adapting to the communication style of individuals who prefer a softer approach or those who are more assertive can help spark meaningful conversations and encourage diverse perspectives. This approach prevents groupthink and fosters an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their opinions.
Congresswoman Val Demings’ insights and experiences remind us of the importance of fostering collaboration, embracing diverse perspectives, and understanding the “why” behind our actions. By cultivating a culture of teamwork and camaraderie, we can create positive change and work towards common goals.
Remember, authentic leadership lies in the desire to lead and the ability to collaborate effectively and empower others to do the same.
Keep collaborating, keep growing,
Patti
Patti is still learning 