“Independence” Day

On  my walk this beautiful Independence Day I decided to sit and think. Ya never know what I might come up with when I do that.  But it was so beautiful by the water and it was a holiday.

As I thought about what Independence Day meant to me. I felt grateful I lived in a place where I was allowed to be free and seek independence if I chose.  But then I saw a crew team go by in a scull. What an amazing thing to watch. All men and woman were working together and it was beautiful the way the oars went into and out of the water.  All the while there was a leader cheering them on.

FullSizeRenderI reflected on my early years of wanting independence as a young professional.  I didn’t need my parents or anybody to open any doors for me or help me out. I was independent.  But as I matured I realized that my independence was a mind set. That I did not need to do things by myself. Being part of a team or family is a choice, as is independence.  The best teams and families are the ones that allow us to keep our independence yet be surrounded by people that care.

I see Maine Course as that Team (Family).

I suggest you all reflect on those important to you today, as well as those who have given us opportunities.

Thanks Mom and Dad for helping me understand the importance of Both!

Sean Riley“Independence” Day
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What I have learned about Introverts!

All MCHG General Managers recently viewed a Ted Talk and articulated it’s meaning to all of us.  Gordon Clark was chosen by his peers to have had the best presentation.  Susan Cain spoke on The Power of Introverts, and Gordon captured the crowd’s attention when he shared what it was like growing up as an introvert. This TED Talk made him realize he wasn’t weird or wrong, he just did things differently than extroverts.  I heard him talking to Dayna (another introvert), and she said he brought her to tears because she, too, had felt that way.

ImageNow Sean, the ultimate extrovert, learned a valuable lesson.  Utilizing people for their strengths, and not letting my style overshadow theirs, is important.  Just think, what if we had only been looking for extroverts 25 years ago when these two introverts joined our team?  They have quietly coached, counseled and lead thousands of associates in the past 25 years, many of whom have become MCHG Leaders.

Question to ask ourselves when we interview new candidates. Are we looking at our interviewees as people first? Or are we looking to see if they are an outgoing “people person”?  Can we get by the nose ring or tattoo? (BTW, Gordon had neither.)

I encourage every introvert and extrovert to listen to The Power of Introverts.  Gordon, Dayna and Susan Cain have opened my eyes. Thank you!  P.S. No need to go to the next networking event. I got this! You just be the leaders you are!

 

Sean RileyWhat I have learned about Introverts!
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