PODCAST EP:20 “Out of the Box Boss”

Hello everyone, and welcome back!

Recently, I've been reflecting on my journey and the whirlwind of events that have shaped my life. From moving into a new, larger salon suite to returning to the mesmerizing Laguna Beach, life has been a roller coaster. But amidst all the excitement, there's a secret project I've been working on. While I can't spill the beans just yet, I can tell you it's been both terrifying and exhilarating. It pushed me to my limits, and there were moments I felt overwhelmed. But as I read in a book titled "The Hardest Way," there's a mantra that resonated with me: "Leap and the net will appear."

This leap of faith has made me realize that being a boss isn't for everyone. It demands honesty, not just with your team but with yourself. Recognizing your shortcomings and understanding where you might have failed your team is crucial.

In my salon, I have a protégé named Jasmine, a delightful soul I fondly call baby JJ. Then there's the admin side of my consulting business, where I've recently onboarded my tech-savvy brother. It might seem unconventional to mix business with family, but trust and understanding are paramount in my world.

From my experiences, I've learned that the traditional norms of being a boss don't always apply. I've worked under various bosses, some wonderful and others not so much. These experiences have taught me what to do and what not to do. For instance, the much-talked-about "work-life balance" is something I genuinely believe in. I've seen bosses who preach about it but then bombard their employees with unrealistic expectations and demands. I've set clear boundaries with my team, ensuring they know they aren't obligated to respond during off-hours or on their days off.

Empathy and understanding are at the core of my leadership style. I don't expect my team to be perpetually upbeat or "on." We're all human, and some days are just off days. It's essential to recognize and respect that. For instance, when I realized I'd be away in London for two weeks, I decided to pay Jasmine for that time, even though she wouldn't be working. It's about valuing the person behind the role.

Being neurodivergent, I understand that my communication style might differ from the norm. But it's this very difference that has allowed me to be more transparent and open with my team. I don't have all the answers, and I'm okay admitting that. What's important is the mutual respect and understanding we share.

Someone once told me that to become a millionaire, you have to step on others. I vehemently disagree. I believe you can achieve success without compromising your morals or integrity. It's about being genuine, both in your personal and professional life.

In conclusion, leadership isn't about power or control. It's about guiding, understanding, and respecting those you lead. It's about showing that success can be achieved with authenticity and kindness. So, to all the leaders out there, remember to be genuine, be kind, and always leap – the net will appear

xo Ani,