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Mariana Cersosimo

How do we recognize our passion and purpose? It is complex and simple at the same time. I was reflecting on when exactly my passion for leadership development was revealed; more than recalling the date and time, I can definitely state the reason why.

I´m talking about an intense training week (face-to-face), and I was feeling exhausted and energy drained after five long days in the classroom. Besides the length, that particular class was challenging for me. Objections, questioning, side conversations and all kinds of situations we can (and will) face at least once in our professional life when we play the facilitator role.

‘One of my key lessons was that as a facilitator, despite all the difficulties I was experiencing, I put high expectations on each learner.’

I remember pretty well that close to the end, I felt that I missed something and, as we normally do, started blaming myself for not being successful.

But something like magic happened at the end. We were at the farewell dinner the night before everyone was going home. Surprisingly, at that dinner, one student at a time took the mic and started thanking me for the process, for the learning, for the reflections and especially for helping each one of them to be a better person and a better leader (for them and their teams). There was acknowledgment, validation and appreciation that opened my eyes.

I confess it took me a while to realize what was happening, and this stood with me for a lifetime. Coming from this particular class, where I was sure I failed, had a lasting impact on me. So, I consciously started reframing my beliefs.

One of my key lessons was that as a facilitator, despite all the difficulties I was experiencing, I put high expectations on each learner. This is something I´ve learned: people respond according to the level of your expectations. Expect good things; you will get good things. Secondly, I´d say that although we are targeting the whole group when we start a training and development program like that, we should never forget the individual. That's where the real and deep connection happens. Save one, save all. Grow one, grow all. One person at a time. One relationship at a time. One objection at a time. Finally, in the end, 1+1+1+1 equals all. And your mission is accomplished. And that was huge for me.

My last thought on this one is that we tend to overcomplicate when talking about leadership development. More than theories and concepts, I’d rather go back to listening, empathy, and building trust and confidence so people can be their most authentic selves and have the courage to display the best version of themselves as leaders with the flaws and vulnerabilities it will naturally bring. And honestly, there´s nothing more beautiful than that. And that's my reason why!