I Am the Best!

November is when it really starts to hit me that the year is almost over. Up until that point, I'm aware of the reality, but it doesn't really sink in. November also happens to be my birthday month, so then I start reflecting on the year since my last birthday, and the ups and downs of that year. I do have to say that there have been some really great moments this past year. There have also been some great lessons learned, and the year is still not over! This is the time that I start to really narrow in on my mindset going in to the next year.

I have been reading Robert Iger's book, "The Ride of a Lifetime." Robert Iger is the CEO of Disney. I have been fascinated by the behind-the-scenes stories of why Disney is the company that it is today, and what makes Robert Iger the leader that he is. The most impactful thing for me is the manner in which he leads. He has this ability to be sure in his decisions, to encourage his team, but also admit when he needs someone to partner with him. He's a strong, confident leader but he's humble enough to admit when something is beyond him. He's one of the best, which is why he had been encouraged to write this book for years.

What does it mean to be "the best?" Before reading Robert Iger's book, I read a book by Bo Eason. The whole premise of the book was centered on being the best. I'll admit I was a little turned off by it at first because I thought it sounded a little egotistical. But as I kept reading, I realized it made sense. If you're going to do something, be the best at it. This doesn't mean that you will start out the best. What it means is that you will need to make a declaration, and then do the work to become the best. This could mean becoming the best parent, or the best partner. Maybe you want to focus on becoming the best boss, or employee. Whatever it is, you can decide to be the best at it.

So that sounds like a whole lot of pressure, right? Not only do you have to find something you're good at, but also you have to be the best at it? Remember that the only person you're competing with is yourself. So when I say seek to be the best, it means to seek the best version of you. Part of being the best is following your own instincts and trusting that you have done your research, and you have weighed all the options and you are confident in your decision. Part of being the best is not waiting for someone else to validate what your instincts are telling you.

As we jump into November, take some time to really narrow down what you are looking to be the best at. Be honest with yourself. Some of you may find that there is something on your list that really shouldn't be on your list. Or maybe there's something you've been avoiding that you need to take a closer look at. Either way, commit to that time for yourself right away. Once you narrow down what you want to excel in, take the necessary steps. If it means reaching out to someone for help, do it. Let your pride down and focus on the bigger goal. You're not doing yourself any favors by pretending to be a know it all. Most of all enjoy this process! It is part of your growth journey.

I hope this month is filled with great discoveries and honest revelations!

Cheers,

Rebeckah Ruth