Hello High Heelers,
As many of you know by now (though some don’t), I’m going to be hanging up my heels, temporarily, soon. After many years of hard work, I’ve decided to take a break for a year, to travel the world, see new places, gain a new perspective, and who knows, maybe write a few books. Time is one of those finite things that we cannot get more of, and while I’m still young enough, dumb enough and unattached enough, I’d like to give myself the gift of a lifetime – a journey of healing and self-discovery, in the most literal sense.
But just because I’m exchanging my sling-backs for ballet flats and my tote for a backpack, it doesn’t mean I’m losing my High Heeler status. Oh no! Being a High Heeler is a state of mind, a state of being; it’s about dreaming big, about understanding how you are connected to others and how you can share with others. It’s about learning from the things life shows you, throws at you and throws you into. It’s about realising that when we fall down, that it’s not about bouncing back, it’s about bouncing forward with new energy and direction. It’s about being true to yourself in the realisation that you have the power to be who you want to be and do what you want to do.
As you all know, this blog was inspired by a woman who spun my world into an utter whirlwind when our relationship began. My boss, Natalie Maroun, was initially the most challenging person I’ve ever worked with, but she quickly became one of the most incredible people I’ve had the privilege of being led by – and the constant inspiration for this blog. It’s funny how often when we perceive others as difficult we really just reveal our own inadequacies to ourselves which leads to tremendous growth and introspection. Such was my meeting with Natalie. Though make no mistake – Natalie pushes you to places you didn’t think you could go, but not because she’s mean, because she sees your true potential and will accept no less than that what you’re fully capable of.
I have learnt so many things from this incredible woman – I could fill a few novels and I will share more as I travel as it’s important to share our lessons. Today I want to begin with sharing just a few. Some of the things I’ve learnt from Natalie Maroun…
Firstly, I’ve learnt that being gorgeously groomed on the outside helps, but the sexiest assets a woman (or man) can have are strength, intelligence and kick-ass confidence. Natalie can turn heads with her looks, but she keeps them turned with her intellect and presence. Nothing beats that. Any supermodel would feel inadequate next to her. Next, if you’ve made a mistake put your hand up immediately, a problem solved early on is far better than a catastrophe left to the last minute. Then encourage people constantly, even when they’re not quite at the point that they deserve it – you’ll be amazed by what people can achieve when you give them the right to be spectacular.
Look after your body. You only have one and you depend on it with everything you are. Feed it nourishment. Strengthen your muscles and bones and never stop exercising your brain. In doing all this, you can look and feel 25 when you’re really in your forties. Stand up for yourself when you know you’re right. Because your thoughts matter, your mind is worthy and you have a right to make a good point – provided it’s properly thought out and researched!
Know that you can do anything. The truth is – you can. But dreams only see the light of life if you take action. Take action with simplicity and conviction. Remember that the most beautiful of dreams is worthless when lost in a cluttered mind. Don’t restrict yourself. You may not call yourself anything other than wonderful – because that’s what you are.
Share what you learn and what you know. In sharing, we keep our momentum going and we truly make a difference in our environment. Spread positivity. If you think someone is beautiful – tell them. If you think someone has an incredible talent – tell them. Sometimes all people need is the permission to be brilliant. Give them permission. Give yourself permission.
My greatest lesson from working with Natalie is that you will reach your greatest potential when working for people that you are terribly afraid of disappointing, but are not afraid of. They will bring out the best in you. The best teachers care enough to show you discipline, give you boundaries, dish out honest feedback (even the scary kind) and to encourage you when you’re a little unsure of yourself. The best teachers are the not the ones that you’ll do anything to impress. You respect them with your being. And they don’t really teach you at all – they show you the way.
This week as I reflect over the past 3 years and I think about all the wonderful things that my boss has taught me. I urge you to be mindful of who you allow to lead you. Be wary of who you follow, as your leaders have huge influence over you. Choose who you follow and choose who you lead. Most importantly find the leader in yourself and choose to be amazing.
Yours in heels,
Jo
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