The Queen of Hearts: The Confessions of An ‘Accidental’ Leader

I didn’t purpose to be in the space that I find myself in – Founder & CEO, Passionate Entrepreneur, EQ Fanatic and OWIT Nairobi President.  God plucked me from the path that I had set out for myself & set me on an alternative journey. At the start it all appeared somewhat ‘accidental’ but I know now that it was no accident, rather His design, His purpose for my life…

So now that I am here, these are my confessions…the lessons I am learning about being a woman in business, building an empire, one brick at a time…

Lesson 22: Chart Your Course

 “Many women live like it’s a dress rehearsal. Ladies, the curtain is up and you’re on.”

– Mikki Taylor, Essense Magazine

The research is clear. It makes good business sense to have women in leadership positions. According to a McKinsey white paper, female leadership is a corporate performance driver.

“Research demonstrates that a ‘critical mass’ of women, 30% or more at board level or in senior management – produces the best financial results”

– McKinsey & Company

I have learned that to prepare myself to take up key leadership roles, I must find my competitive edge and apply key strategies for success. These are the key insights I have learned;

• Map Out Your Strategy

Many dream, but few turn their dreams into reality.  For dreams to take shape you must identify your career path/business direction, strategise and set clear goals, then take action and review your progress regularly. Nothing in life happens by accident.  Success doesn’t come by chance.  Successful individuals labour tirelessly and often against great odds, in pursuit of their goals

• Seek Support

Having a support network is key to being successful. Several studies demonstrate that women with mentors are more successful. This is because a strong mentor can help women plan their career path or identify business goals, develop the right experience, seek out new opportunities and develop the necessary self-confidence for leadership.

In addition to one-to-one mentorship, there is value in female networking groups. Networks can provide the female support and role models.

• Raise Your Profile

“Women must learn to maximise impact and presence to make the right impression… and be confident enough to ask for what they want and make bold moves that will showcase their talents.”

~ Susan Ritchie

Don’t wait to be tapped on your shoulder – learn to actively raise your profile. Be assertive and proactive. Speak up about your career & business ambitions and keep a log of your successes. Network widely to make yourself known.

• Invest In Yourself

In his book, ‘The 7 Habit of Highly Effective People’ Stephen Covey talks about Sharpening The Saw – Habit no. 7. It is imperative that you balance and renew your resources, energy, and health to create a sustainable & effective lifestyle. Invest in yourself mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Remember – you can’t give what you don’t have.

In her book, “Briefcase Essentials,” Susan Spencer shares how female leadership styles differ from their male counterparts.  It’s that difference that benefits organisations.  Be true to yourself. Capitalise on your strengths. Don’t compromise your values. Embrace your womanhood, for it is that which makes you valuable.

With Love,

The Queen Of Hearts

Mucha Mlingo

| Six Seconds EQ Practitioner | Master Trainer & Facilitator |

| Award Winning International Keynote Speaker |