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By: Diya Kaur
I would like to introduce a concept that has the potential to enhance your growth and success in the business world. It is called the Personal Board of Directors. I want you to imagine yourself as a captain on a ship. You need a reliable crew with you to help you get through storms and reach your final destination. This crew is what the people on your board represent. In your personal and professional life, this is your Board of Directors.
Imagine sailing a large ship all by yourself through hefty weather conditions and no guidance whatsoever. This is definitely a tough challenge. A crew with unique skills and ideas may help you have smooth sailing. Everyone needs a team of people in their lives. As a business owner, you need people to call whenever you are faced with challenges, day-to-day decisions, or any crossroads. Your entrepreneurial and leadership journey is one where personal development and success is prevalent.
A Board of Directors is a network of individuals that offer various perspectives. Diversity within your board is crucial to get a wide range of people with different ideas. In this context, diversity means people with different career paths, ages, experiences, gender, and personalities. When you assemble your board of people, it is essential to include those with experiences that are distinct from your own. This ensures that you get new perspectives when needed. This is why diversity is so important, if you choose the same types of people to be on your board then you don't get different points of views and experiences to bounce ideas off of or get advice from.
There are different types of people who should be on your board. There should be people that guide you through challenging situations and give you much-needed advice. These people can be kind of like the mentors. Then, you also need people that challenge you and give you constructive criticism. Being a business owner comes with many responsibilities and these challengers can give you the hard truth and aim for your growth along the way. Last but not least, you have to have individuals on your board who are rooting for your success and support you every step of the way.
A Personal Board of Directors is a very powerful tool that is the driving force for personal and professional growth. It's about surrounding yourself with those who believe in you and challenge you to reach your goals. I encourage everyone to reflect on their own networks and add people to their Board of Directors. At the end of the day, you are the captain of your life and you choose who will help you navigate through it and steer you in the right direction to reach your potential.
About The Author:
Diya Kaur '26
Management Information Systems
Entrepreneurial LeadHERship Fall 2023 Student
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