HOV – High Occupancy Vehicles. To be in this lane, we must have at least one other person with us. Only with a friend, relative or colleague can we speed by the scores of slow-moving vehicles, grinding their way through Houston gridlock. As they weave in and out of lanes just to get a few yards ahead, we and our companions cruise by relaxed, engaging in conversation, listening to energizing music, pumped up for the day.
If we decide to go it alone, we’re just another frustrated driver stuck in traffic.
Too often we feel like we need to do it all, do it perfectly and do it ourselves. I frequently meet women who feel overwhelmed because they believe that to get something done right, they have to do it themselves. The reality is, that the further we go in our careers, we need more people around us, supporting us, helping achieve the joint mission. Leaders lead others…they don’t do it all themselves.
Here’s another reality: we have many common challenges and common experiences. Women in my workshops and group coaching sessions are often surprised and comforted to find out that other women share their experiences. We all lighten our burdens when we share them with others and seek counsel and support.
In challenging times, whether personal or professional, I struggled when I tried to go it alone. When I sought the support and guidance of others, the fog cleared, the weight was lifted from my shoulders and I was able to move forward. Pride, embarrassment, stubbornness, independence, lack of perspective… any one of these can get in the way of simply asking for help.