Today, I want to share what I call “The 7 C’s for Success” – principles that have guided me throughout my journey and will serve as powerful navigation tools as you chart your course forward.
The first ‘C’ is Character. Your character is your foundation. J.C. Watts, an American politician, pastor, and former college and professional football player, said, “Character is doing the right thing when nobody’s looking.” I’m reminded of a young professional I mentored who faced an ethical dilemma early in her career. She discovered an error that would have benefited her company financially, but she chose to report it, potentially putting her position at risk. That decision earned her respect and led to positive systemic changes in her organization. Remember, your character is shaped by your faith, your values, and the company you keep. Choose your inner circle wisely, for they will either elevate you or diminish your potential.
The second ‘C’ is Candor. Words have immense power – they can heal, hurt, build, or destroy. I learned this lesson early in my leadership journey when a colleague took me aside and spoke the truth to me in love about my communication style. That conversation, though uncomfortable, transformed my approach to leadership. Speak the truth, but always do so with compassion and purpose.
Commitment, our third ‘C,’ is about excellence, not perfection. Growth occurs in discomfort, dear graduates. During my doctoral studies, there were countless nights when giving up seemed tempting, but commitment meant pushing through those moments of doubt (Cancer, Father’s Death, etc.). Failure is not the end; it’s feedback. So, when you fail, fail forward. Your commitment to excellence will be tested repeatedly, but remember – diamonds are formed under pressure.
Consistency, the fourth ‘C,’ is perhaps the most underrated success principle. Trust is built on consistency, not grand gestures. Think of it like compound interest – small, consistent actions over time yield remarkable results. I’ve observed that the most successful leaders aren’t necessarily the most talented, but they are often the most consistent in their habits, work ethic, and integrity.
The fifth ‘C,’ Courage, isn’t about the absence of fear – it’s about acting despite it. Being willing to stand alone and being comfortable with being uncomfortable are hallmarks of courage. I remember standing alone on certain principles early in my career when going with the flow would have been easier. Those moments defined my leadership journey. Never let fear make you lose control of your decisions, emotions, and actions.
Confidence, our sixth ‘C,’ is what I call the secret sauce of success. But let me be clear – true confidence comes from preparation and humility, not arrogance. Do your homework. Know your stuff. When you’ve put in the work, confidence naturally follows. I’ve seen too many promising careers derailed by arrogance masquerading as confidence.
Finally, Connection – perhaps the most crucial ‘C’ of all. Success is rooted in relationships. Globally recognized leadership expert, author, speaker, and pastor John C. Maxwell said, “Leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed that the most successful individuals are those who build meaningful relationships across boundaries. They invest in others before they need anything in return. They lead with empathy to cultivate influence and make a lasting impact.
These principles – Character, Candor, Commitment, Consistency, Courage, Confidence, and Connection – are not just theoretical concepts. They are practical tools for navigating the complex world in which we live.
You’ve been equipped with knowledge and skills, but how you apply them will depend on these 7 C’s. Your success will not be measured solely by your achievements but by the lives you touch and the positive change you create.
Let me share this: Success is not a destination; it’s a journey of continuous growth and impact. You have unique gifts and talents that the world desperately needs. Lead with character, speak with candor, stay committed to excellence, remain consistent in your values, have the courage to stand firm, walk in authentic confidence, and never underestimate the power of meaningful connections.
Make your mark with wisdom, serve with compassion, and lead with purpose.
Remember that success begins with who you are, not just what you do. So lead with integrity, live with purpose, and above all; be the change you wish to see in the world.
#EducationalLeader,
Kim
When students are led well, they learn well.
The views shared in the Educational Leadership Moment are solely mine and do not reflect the positions of my employer or any entity within the local, state, or federal government sector.
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