A while back, I moderated a panel of local business leaders, and what was interesting was that the topic of the day was courage. So, the conversation ranged from, “what does courage mean in today’s world, to how courage has come at a cost in your life, and what do you wish you had known about leading with courage.” One of the presenters on the stage said something I don’t think I’ll ever forget… his name was Javier Carto, and he said, “Once you find something that catches your heart, it is more powerful than commanding the hands.”
Wow, I really like that statement. As leaders, I believe we need to figure out what catches our hearts because once that is in line, everything else will fall into place.
Throughout the conference, the message was clear: don’t be so cautious that all you do is watch the ride go by because over time, you’ll ultimately miss it. Whether it’s leaving the country for a short-term job in a new location, following your heart into the music industry, educating yourself to be recognized as an international leader, being the first in your family to go to college if that’s your desire, or developing a skill that prepares you, allow your courage to swell and let it guide you. Once you grasp this simple yet profound message, I believe it will change your life.
As a coach, I see courage as a key to success in every endeavor. I often say, “Courage and leadership is about making a decision and sticking with it.” Why? Because it’s easy to walk away when things are hard, and it’s difficult to stick with it when the going gets tough. So, I have to ask you, dear listener: how does leading with courage look in your own life? And what will you do courageously today that will engage you so much that your hands literally fall into place?
I will say that this was one of those conferences that I moderated that I walked away feeling more energized than when I walked in and I really love that quote, “Catching the heart is more powerful than commanding the hands.” I’m not sure if Javier knew that one would stick with me for life, but it certainly has.
And I hope it holds onto you as you live your amazing life.
