Ask the Author: An Exclusive Q&A with Laysha Ward
I’ve read that intentional planning leads to intentional outcomes. Do you agree or disagree with this thinking and if so why.
Being intentional is essential to leading like you mean it. If you're not clear about what you're doing and why, then getting the best outcome will be difficult. Great leadership starts with clarity. When we identify and align on the problem we’re trying to solve and why, we can unlock opportunities and achieve real results.
What advice do you have for our members of Gen Z who are in the midst of trying to find a career that pursues a moral compass with lasting success?
Leading with meaning is all about living and leading with purpose and integrity, which paves the way for success and joy in your life and career. Bet on and believe in yourself. Write your personal purpose statement. Build a network of relationships; don’t attempt to go it alone. Real leadership and growth emerge from our willingness to ask for help and give it. And take care of yourself at every step in your journey. You got this!
How do I find—or fake—confidence in my current skills as a leader meanwhile always trying to learn and improve?
The fact that you’re always trying to learn and improve tells me that you are self-aware, which is a great foundation for continuous learning and growth. Every time you try something new, you are learning to overcome fear of the unknown. If you don’t have one already, create your personal and professional board of advisors. Stock this “kitchen cabinet” with a range of people from cheerleaders who make up your hype squad to challengers who give you tough love and push you forward.
I can’t honestly say I do believe in myself, at least not always. Where do I go from here?
I devote an entire chapter of my book to the importance of betting on and believing in yourself. And it’s not just believing but knowing who you are deep down, showing up and telling your story with confidence, and standing in your power. Many of the attributes that make you you are the unique assets that will help you succeed in your life and career. You just have to flip the picture and spin your roots into gold. It’s there!
I’m going to be moving into a new role where I will have to prove myself. I’m sure I can do it and I’m excited about this new opportunity, but it’s not an easy job and I’m feeling anxious that I won’t succeed or won’t learn quick enough. Any advice?
Congratulations on the new role! I hear confidence and a belief in yourself – and that’s step one. It’s normal to feel anxious – pursuing new opportunities can be uncomfortable. I always advise people to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Discomfort often means we’re on the right track. Remind yourself that you’re moving forward to growth. This reframing alone may help you enter your new position with a growth mindset. Good luck!
I feel like mentors aren’t very common in my industry/at my company—how do I introduce this idea to my boss so they can understand what it means and what would be expected of them?
I love that you are initiating a mentorship program for your company. As a first step, I recommend doing your homework. You’ll find helpful information in Part Two of my book, where I break down the different types of relationships, like mentors, allies and advocates. Women are often over-mentored and under-sponsored, so be precise about the kinds of relationships you want for yourself and others. Create a clear, concise and compelling business case – with benefits for individual employees and company results. Remind your company’s leaders that we all have something to learn and we all have something to teach. I mentor a lot of people, but I also have reverse mentors who help me in areas where I lack expertise, like social media and technology.
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