During my military career, I had the privilege to connect with many individuals.
While I was stationed at one major military installation, I had the opportunity to work with six awesome senior female officers.
It was a wonderful experience! Why? Because normally there was only one female officer on staff. So, most of the time I was the only female officer in an office full of men. Now, please don’t get me wrong, I enjoy working with my male counterparts.
When I arrived, the ladies welcomed me into their inner circle. I remember being excited to connect with other successful women. The group was composed of women from different races, ethnicity, ages, and branches of service. Some women were married, others were divorced or single, and some had children. It was a nice mix of personalities.
My office mates dubbed our group the “Hen Club.” Once a month, we would have lunch together and discuss our career opportunities. Because we worked in different departments, we formed our own internal network of support. During the week, we would connect with each other to offer assistance and support.
After two years, members of our group began to move to new military assignments. While it was sad to say goodbye, we where excited for new opportunities. Although we have all retired and live in different states, we are still connected.
In the Law of the Inner Circle, John Maxwell states, “A leader’s potential is determined by those closest to him.” Therefore, it is very important to be selective in who you have in your inner circle. Why? Because your success will depend on it!
[callout]Members of your inner circle should lift you up and help you grow.[/callout]
Oprah Winfrey said, “Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher! Life is already filled with those who want to bring you down.”
In your current leadership role, how do you select members of your inner circle? In the 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, Maxwell offers the following five specific questions to assess potential inner circle candidates:
- Do they have high influence with others?
- Do they bring a complementary gift to the talent?
- Do they hold a strategic position in the organization?
- Do they add value to me and to the organization?
- Do they positively impact other inner circle members?
The individuals in your inner circle are there to positively influence each other and promote each other’s growth.
[shareable cite=”Simon Bailey”]Expand your inner circle to include those who can challenge your thinking and escalate you to unreached heights of success”[/shareable]
As you choose individuals for your inner circle, select individuals who you enjoy spending time with and trust. Remember the words of John Wooden, “You will never outperform your inner circle.”
How do you select members of your inner circle?
Your friend,
Kim
Dr. Kim Moore | Your Leadership Guide | kimdmoore.com
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