Lean In

I’m reading “Lean In: Women, Work, and The Will to Lead” by Sheryl Sandberg, and I can’t get through five or six pages without having to stop, my mind a churn with reflections on my career path and the people and decisions that have made impacts on my journey. I’m fortunate that as I’ve been reading, my husband, Andrew, has been sitting next to me driving us to our spring break destination giving me the opportunity to share my thoughts aloud from time to time.

I’m not sure I was the bossy young girl that Sheryl has described in interviews, although I did get the nickname Skipper when my friends and I were old enough to head to the lake on our own for summertime fun. I didn’t think much of it; I was just making sure our boating activities for the day were organized and that everyone was on board. The older version of me can now reflect on my Skipper days and identify my early drive to get things done and get them done well.

My dad named my dearest friends from high school and college “The Power Women or Power Ladies.” When he first dubbed them this, I thought, that’s nice. Now decades later, I realize how insightful he was to recognize the potential we already displayed at a young age. I’ve continued to add more power women and men to my circle of friends. We’ve fed off of one another’s energy, kindness and support and along with our own initiative, faith and the support of colleagues, mentors and partners have seen our lives propelled forward in positive and powerful ways. I can’t help but see their faces flash before me with a smile as I read Sheryl Sandberg’s recollections.

I also find myself pouring gratitude out for the mentors whose words and actions I have soaked up like a sponge. In stubbornness or fear to admit or own my gifts and talents, it may have taken me some time to step as far as they knew I could, but I have taken great strides, and I’m not done yet.

I’m thankful to be surrounded by “Lean In” kind of people. I appreciate the way that we can encourage one another and how it enables each of us to radiate positive energy outward to make a difference in others lives. I’m thankful that Sheryl Sandberg took the time to compile her words of wisdom. Many of her suggestions are lessons I’ve lived by for years. Similarly, I have struggled with timing and how to strategically make change without guilt or hesitancy. Although my children are only 5 and 7, I’ve already been thinking through the inscription I want to add to the copy of my book to hopefully inspire them to “Lean In.”

I highly recommend that both men and women take the time to read this book. I think you’ll find it insightful and inspiring. I found it reaffirming and a welcome opportunity to reflect on a life that has been challenging, joyful and rewarding. I’m grateful to God everyday for this “jungle gym” in which I’ve had the pleasure to play, learn, grow and love. I hope that you, too, “Lean In.”

With Love and Light,

LT