The Leadership Blog by Ann Vanino

The recent political controversy around the use of the phrase “Lipstick on a Pig” got me thinking. Do I put lipstick on a pig when it comes to my fulfillment at work? Do you?

Regarding their work, people “put lipstick on a pig” all the time. They have a bully boss and make excuses for him. They hate their job, but say, “it pays the mortgage”. They are passed over for promotions, but still believe they can get there. They ignore the 90% of their job that is unfulfilling and convince themselves they are happy based on the 10%.

If you are putting lipstick on a pig, wipe it off. Look “for real” at your work life and begin to change the aspects that are unfulfilling. You can dawdle your life away finding different shades of lipstick for your pig, but, in the end, you are unfulfilled and nothing has been gained. Facing the truth of things and mustering the courage to create the life you want is what brings fulfillment.

I recently was interviewed by Duncan Brodie on the leadership lessons in my book Leadership on Trial: Lessons from the Apprentice. I enjoyed the interview, both for the opportunity to get the word out about my book and because I learned during it. Duncan asked me what I thought leaders struggled with. That is a novel question. We discussed the loneliness of being on top and the need for a circle of support as you lead. We spoke about the power of observation in developing your leadership skills. You can listen to the interview by clicking here.

Check out the work Duncan is doing in the United Kingdom at his website. His company helps individuals, teams and organizations to develop the skills, knowledge and personal attributes to prosper as managers and leaders. On his site, he provides case studies of his leadership work and free resources including eCourses and eBooks.

As a manager, you face a challenge to be a team player and, at the same time, to maintain your authority. It is a fine line. I learned early on as a manager that I could not be everyone’s friend and get the job done. I had to find a good space that incorporated both collaboration and authority. I found it by keeping my team focused on the job that had to be done, leading the team and being fair by providing clear expectations, guidance and help when needed.

It matters where you put your focus. What you pay attention to is what you manifest. Try an experiment. In the next week, create a specific focus. It could be to leave work by a certain time, to complete a project or to reduce your stress. Maintain your focus each day. See what results and examine what effects your focus had on your life over the week.