I have had the unique opportunity to officiate a wedding—actually, two weddings, both for my nieces who are both named Allie. While this might seem unrelated to leadership, believe me, it isn't. Here are some leadership lessons I picked up from the experience:
Preparation Matters
Speaking in public might be my bread and butter, but for this wedding, I realized preparation was crucial. I put in a lot of time and effort, not just to keep my emotions in check (spoiler: I didn't cry!), but to deliver a ceremony that would be memorable for everyone. In leadership and life, preparation is a non-negotiable.
Never Underestimate Your Skills
People afterward were impressed by my ability to officiate. Truth be told, it was something well within my wheelhouse. We often underestimate our capabilities; don't. Recognize your unique skills, and utilize them to their fullest potential. You might be surprised what you can accomplish!
Be Present
The couple asked everyone to put away their phones and cameras, and I couldn't agree more. Being fully present allows you to truly engage and appreciate the moment, something we often forget in our fast-paced, digital lives. Whether you’re leading a team or attending a wedding, being present is a skill we all should nurture.
I also learned a bonus tip: always remember to let people sit down after the bride is handed off! A good laugh, but also a subtle lesson in being mindful of others' comfort.
To sum it up, whether you're officiating a wedding or leading a team, these lessons are universally applicable. Now, I challenge you to pick one and apply it to your life this week.
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"Being more prepared will boost your confidence and competence. There's a good reason why the best performers are those who practice the most and most effectively." -@KevinEikenberry
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