I DIDN’T SAY IT ENOUGH
For most of my career, my eyes and senses were trained to see what was not right.
A gap. A risk. Something that could be better.
It helped me build businesses, raise standards and solve problems.
But somewhere along the way, I missed something.
I did not appreciate people enough in words.
Not because I didn’t value them.
I trusted them.
I gave them space.
I pushed them beyond what they believed was possible.
I protected them when they were in the line of fire.
I was there when they needed me.
For me, that was appreciation.
I assumed my actions said everything my words needed to say.
They don’t.
Looking back, I think of the many people who believed in me before I believed in myself. Those who gave me opportunities, walked alongside me and gave everything they had.
To all of them, I would say:
I am sorry I didn’t say thank you enough.
You were extra special to me.
And today I realise something even more deeply:
I am what you made me.
Perhaps leadership is not only about seeing what needs to be fixed.
It is also about having the humility to say what is right, more often.
I hope I change. I hope I appreciate more. And I hope I say it while there is still time.