Byron's Babbles

In the season finale of Elsbeth last night, Mateo Hart (André De Shields) told Elsbeth Tascioni (Carrie Preston), “If someone notices something about you, pay attention, and use it.” He was referring to talents he wanted her to develop that he had noticed about her. This was a great point and highlights a valuable opportunity for self-reflection and growth, as others may notice things about us that we may not see ourselves. I love it when people tell me the things they notice. Whether positive or negative I can then use the noticed “something.” Also, no matter whether a positive or negative observation, it’s important to take note of it and consider how it may impact you.

By “using it”, we take the observation or feedback and use it to make positive changes in our life or behavior. It could be acknowledging a strength we didn’t realize we had, or working on improving a weakness that was pointed out to us. It’s all about self-improvement and personal growth.

A couple of weeks ago we did a leadership development activity where participants bought a small amount of spice that best represented their leadership journey. Later, we used the spices to make sauces for chicken tenders, but that’s a story for another day. As a group of participants was searching through all the spices I asked them to pick one they thought best described me. I was pretty excited about the one they picked because it probably would not have been one I would have picked, but I loved their explanation. They picked, Soul Seasoning. These participants said it was their choice because when gather for their Teacher Leader Academy sessions I always season their souls.

Wow, “seasoned their souls.” I hadn’t really ever thought about that before. It had never entered my mind that I was seasoning their souls. More importantly, what did that mean exactly, to season their souls? So I asked. They explained that I inspired, uplifted, and nurtured their inner being. Plus they said I am helping them discover their true potential, guiding them towards personal growth and self-discovery and enriching their life with positivity and fulfillment. I particularly liked that positivity piece! Essentially, it is about enriching spirit and helping them become the best of themselves.

Soul Seasoning could be a metaphor for our adding depth, flavor, and richness to leadership. Just as seasoning enhances the taste of food, Soul Seasoning in leadership could represent adding authenticity, empathy, and purpose to one’s leadership style. It could symbolize bringing out the best in oneself and others, creating a more meaningful and fulfilling leadership experience. What’s your spice?

We, as leaders need to understand the message that it’s not just about existing, but about truly living and making a meaningful impact during our time on this earth and in leadership. In the song, I Was Alive, the great band, Beartooth, tells us, “’Cause I’ll know I didn’t just live; When I die, I’ll know I didn’t just live; I was alive, I’ll know I didn’t just live; I was alive.” These lyrics from Beartooth should serve as a reminder for us to truly live in the present moment and make the most out of every experience. We don’t want to have regrets of the things not tried. Being alive means being connected to our surroundings, emotions, and experiences, while just living may indicate a more passive or detached approach to life. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be passive with my life.

The importance of being fully engaged and active in our roles should be emphasized, rather than simply going through the. Leaders can take the message from this song that it’s not just about existing, but fully embracing and engaging in the present moment, actively participating in life experiences and making the most out of every opportunity. We also need to consider how we can help others to do the same. Our goal should be for everyone, in the end, be able to say, “I was alive.”