The Accidental Leader

I was at a gathering of the authors of 'Power of Women United' recently, when our host who brought us all together called herself an 'accidental leader'. My immediate reaction was 'no your are not'! There no accident here... You see, Shirley (Chapter 20) had a vision – the vision was to bring everyone together to celebrate our book reaching the Canadian Best Sellers list. Shirley has another vision – to be on the Oprah Winfrey Show with all of the authors of the book in attendance. This girl thinks big!

We have talked about this goal since the before the book was published, and I bet some of us thought privately that it was noble, but perhaps unattainable dream – not Shirley!

We are a collection of 22 women authors - all with dreams and ambitions – all pursuing our own paths – but with a single vision, to share our stories – to help empower women in every corner of the globe. We want for others what our wisdom and experience have taught us – to be brave in the face of adversity, to get up when you fall, to act every day like the success you dream to be.

So, what about this 'accidental leader'? In my opinion there is no such thing. There are many theories about what constitutes a leader – some say you need Charisma – I say bunk! Some say you are born to it – also bunk! Leadership like any other skill is a learned behaviour. Every time you step up to something, every time you take responsibility for your own actions - you are being a leader. Being a mother is being a leader – you show your children by example how to behave in the world. Leadership is not just for people in politics or corporations.

Where does Leadership begin? It's an inside job! it begins with taking responsibility for every word and action - it begins with having a deep regard and respect for your fellow human beings – and it begins with guts to face up to a challenge and take it on. Leadership is also about taking risks – doing what others will not do – that can feel scary sometimes, but the payoff can be huge.

Does a leader need followers? No – a leader needs a vision a purpose and a plan – and the commitment to help others see where she is headed. I stand side by side – arm in arm with this 'Accidental Leader' on our journey to empower all women no matter where they are or what their circumstance. Won't you join us on this journey? See you in Chicago! Oprah - here we come!

A Favourite of Mine -Winnie The Pooh on Success

 Success does not come without planning, I love this take on goal setting from one of my favourite books.

Adapted from “Winnie the Pooh on Success” - Allen&Allen

Chinese Proverb – ‘There are many paths to the top of the mountain, but the view is always the same.”

Creating your Vision

Select a Dream
Use your dream to set a goal.
Create a Plan.
Consider resources.
Enhance Skills Abilities
Spend Time Wisely.
Start! – Get Organized and Go.

Goal Setting

All of us have Possibility power.
Choose your goals carefully – you are going to achieve them.
Have both long and short term goals. As you accomplish them, add new ones.
Imagine accomplishing really ambitious goals. – Reward yourself.
Engendering success requires concrete goals – be specific.
Value your long term goals; don’t get sidetracked by only working on short term goals.
Eliminate conflict between goals – harmonize and prioritize.

Create a Plan!
A list of things to do…

What has to be done
Who will do it?
When will it get done?

PRIORITIZE!

http://www.ireneanderson.ca/

Power Of Women United Book release

Power of Women United Book Launch June 17th 6:30 pm McNally Rand Don Mills, Toronto - Huge Networking Event -

The Power of Women United is a stunning presentation of
the hard lessons learned by women who have met the challenges
of life and succeeded. Each chapter is authored by a woman who
has traveled her own road and overcome unique struggles in her quest
to live a fulfilled and satisfying life. In their own words these women
project the emotional strength and wisdom they have gained, and shine
as beacons of light for those women searching for answers and their
own truth.
The diversity of situations presented touches the heart of every
reader and conveys the idea that they can be successful no matter their
past or current situation. Each author has stepped out of the shadow and
entered the business and entrepreneurial world and though they have
experienced different journeys, they have learned lessons that will give
strength and courage to those who dare to achieve their dreams.
The offering of personal knowledge gained from experience gives
the new and seasoned entrepreneur alike, confidence that the concepts
conveyed are of the utmost importance. These include specific ideas to
grow your business as well as motivational encouragement to help deal
with the fear that can keep you from excelling.
As women, we trust the wisdom of those who have gone before
us and dealt with the problems of balancing work and home life. Though
many are convinced that you can’t have it all, these women have proven
that not only can you succeed, you deserve to grasp the opportunity to
live your dream. The Power of Women United is the ultimate tool to begin
your own personal growth journey to be the woman you choose to be.

http://www.ireneanderson.ca/