[Massachusetts-NFB] Being the very best you!

[sharawinton at gmail.com]

Happy Friday All!

I've been doing a lot of self-reflection lately. In this process, I've read
numerous articles in the Braille Monitor and revisited the wise words of our
greatest leader, Kenneth Jernigan.

As I continue striving to be the best leader I can be, my goal is to help
each of you ignite and nurture the flame of potential within yourselves. One
recurring theme I've noticed in my reading is the challenge of keeping our
egos in check when it comes to collaboration.

Let me be clear: this is not directed at any one individual, nor is it meant
as a criticism. My intention is to share insights I believe could benefit
all of us-whether in our work, volunteer efforts, family lives, or any
situation where collaboration is key.

Some of the greatest leaders in the National Federation of the Blind-Kenneth
Jernigan, Joe Ruffalo, Gary Wunder, Peggy Elliott, and Mark Riccobono-have
all emphasized the importance of ensuring our egos never outweigh the
mission of our movement. They've also shared their personal struggles with
this balance, reminding us that this is a universal challenge.

Each of us has an ego-it's a natural and necessary part of who we are.
However, success lies in finding that sweet spot: being assertive enough to
stand by our beliefs while avoiding the extremes of arrogance or
submissiveness. Striking this balance allows us to collaborate effectively
and remain focused on our shared goals.

Below, I've included a few quotes from my readings that resonate deeply with
me, as well as a link to an article I believe you'll find valuable. It's an
excellent starting point that can lead you to many other thought-provoking
resources.

"Managing your ego is one of the best things you can do, not only for
effective collaboration, but for saving your own time, energy and focus, not
to mention living your #bestlife and having satisfying, enhancing
relationships."

 

"Recognize when you are going into ego mode

Here are a few telltale signs:

*	You have a feeling of self-righteous self-importance, with perhaps a
sprinkling of superior sanctimony thrown in for good measure
*	You are overcome with a need to prove you are right and that the
other person is wrong
*	You have a strong inner critic who is very judgmental, critical of
yourself and others
*	You think in black and white terms
*	You have an attitude of scarcity and fear, rather than abundance and
possibility
*	You can feel your nervous system is on edge and you are not relaxed
in your body
*	You feel very protective and defensive of your opinions
*	Here is a quote from a great song by Harry Chapin, "You know good
dreams don't come cheap, you have to pay for them. If you just dream when
you're asleep, there is no way for them to come alive, to survive."

 

https://makeadifference.media/culture/managing-your-ego-for-collaboration/#:
~:text=One%20of%20the%20best%20ways,you%20will%20fight%20your%20corner.

 

I hope this helps you, as it has helped me. Have a wonderful weekend! Go
live your best life Courageously!! 

 

 

With Love, Hope and determination, 

 

Shara Winton

President, National federation of the Blind of Massachusetts

 <http://www.nfbma.org/> www.nfbma.org

 <mailto:sharawinton at gmail.com> sharawinton at gmail.com

617-304-0347

 

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