What Does It Say On Your Tin?

Listening to Stephen Fry talk about the impact of Mandela the other evening, I was struck Fry's comment that there is a piece of Mandela in all of us, and that piece takes courage to show to others. Many of my clients ask me how they can be more inspirational as leaders. And something in Fry’s words clicked with me - leaders in business also have to show courage in their actions, and that they must be human beings first and foremost before they can invite people to follow them.

Mandela’s own leadership evolved when he moved from being a man of arms to a man of peace. That peace started from inside – from being more at peace with himself and accepting his long incarceration in jail with dignity – to showing other people how to reconcile themselves to their fellow South Africans.

Mandela’s tin shows courage in the face of adversity, a wicked sense of humour, an enduring presence and a voice which speaks up when others are afraid to. Africa and the world still listen to this frail ninety year old man.

Takeaway Juice: What does it say on your tin? What would you like your tin to say when you reach 90?

If you want to build a stronger, clearer personal brand, have a look at Career Distinction by William Arruda and Kirsten Dixson.

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