The stories we tell ourselves.
This week on LinkedIn, I tackled the top 5 worries that IT leaders have about landing their first C-level gig:
1. If I need C-level experience to get C-level experience, how will I do that?
2. Have I done enough in my career to be considered for a C-level role?
3. There's an ugly wart on my resume that I don't know how to talk about.
4. What is the best way to get started on finding a C-level position?
5. Should I take an intermediate role to eventually get my first C-level position?
Progress in our careers is often stalled because of the stories we tell ourselves. “I’m not good enough, lucky enough, or qualified enough.”
But you are not your thoughts. Just because you believe that you’re not enough doesn’t mean it’s true!
Science suggests that our brains process more than 400 millions bits of information per second. Only 2000 or so of those thoughts are conscious. The Reticular Activating System (RAS) helps us make sense of it all. It focuses on what’s important.
As an example, if you were in a room full of hundreds of people who were all talking, and one person said your name … your brain would lock in on it! This also explains why if you wanted a specific pair of shoes, you’d start seeing those shoes more frequently on other people.
You can use the RAS to achieve your goals. By building an intention and plan to land a dream position, you can elevate these thoughts in your consciousness. Just like a new pair of shoes you desire, your brain will start looking for signs and opportunities to achieve the next level in your career.
You must repeat your intention to move to the next level. Every. Single. Day. Keep your RAS working for you. Use daily affirmations like, “I can do hard things.” Remind your brain that this is important.
I’m not suggesting that the items on the worry list aren’t legitimate. In fact, it may take extreme focus, planning, coaching, and execution to fully overcome. However, don’t let the stories you tell yourself prevent you from getting started.
Rather, be intentional. Invest time. Be obsessive about learning and networking. And don’t be afraid to fail or be rejected. Failure isn’t the opposite of success. Failure is a step we have to take to get to success.
Whenever you're ready, there are two ways I can help you:
On-Demand Mastermind: Confidently boost your IT leadership and influence skills. Created for senior IT leaders who want to earn their first C-level role, this online course provides all of the strategies & tactics I used to get a seat at the table.
One-to-One Coaching: I work directly with leaders who want to grow their executive potential and value an experienced navigator to help them execute their plan. This includes senior IT leaders who want to earn their first C-level role or a current C-level who wants to land a Board seat.
