Changes in Pattern
These include being less ego-driven, no longer expecting perfection in self and others, being less confrontational, becoming a better listener, and truly valuing and caring about other people:
Becoming less ego-driven. Most emerging sages say they have come a long way from the arrogance of their youth. And they have become less driven and results-oriented, and less opinionated and self-righteous:
I cringe at how arrogant I was when younger. I think I have mellowed quite a bit.
When I was young I was very driven to achieve sensational results. I had led by example, and perfection was the goal. Now I view my leadership role more as mentor and coach. Rather than focusing on myself, I help others to acquire skills that enable them to move-up and better themselves.I am a lot less opinionated and self-righteous than I used to be. Now I definitely listen to all sides of every story and feel more passionate about things that I really believe in. As you get older, I think you get stronger convictions about things.
No longer expecting perfection from self or others. This change reveals itself in no longer being uptight about getting things right all of the time, finding comfort in having finally established a good reputation, and reflecting on the role that willpower plays in the life of a leader:
Download Article 1K ClubEarly in my career I was a purist. It was very important that I be absolutely correct in my analysis, and I was not always very strategic in how I operated. I often failed to take into account political and human factors or fully embrace the value of relationships—how to inspire others to follow my lead.
