How can you leave a lasting positive impact on the people in your circle of influence?
I have been interviewing highly effective leaders on my Psychology Today blog to find out just that. Today, I published Part 1 of my Lead Positive Profile of Doug Conant, Founder & CEO of ConantLeadership. Doug is also a New York Times bestselling author, the former CEO of Campbell Soup Company, Chairman of Avon Products and Chairman of The Kellogg Executive Leadership Institute.
In the profile, Doug relates the transformative story of when he was fired from a job early on his career—it was the best and worst thing that happened to him. He also discusses other life-changing experiences that shaped his philosophy of how he wants to walk in the world and how he wants to lead.
Below are some of the most inspiring quotes from Doug’s interview. For the full read, please go here.
On creating a supportive work environment
“In one day I had probably the worst corporate experience of my lifetime — getting fired, and also what turned out to be one of the best experiences—being unconditionally supported. It totally shifted the paradigm of leadership for me and started me out on my own journey through the world of ‘How can I help?'”
On being fully present
“They’ve slogged through 200 emails, 30 text messages, things have gone wrong at home, at school or at work, and all they need is somebody sitting right next to them to say, “I’m right here.” The people with whom I work, I want them to know, ‘I’m right here.'”
On putting your all into your work
“Nothing extraordinary has ever been accomplished without personal commitment and without really devoting yourself and becoming one with what you’re trying to do.”
On asking for help
“I see an ocean of opportunity. I see people everywhere who are inclined to be helpful as long as you honor them and their situation.”
To read Doug Conant’s entire interview, please visit my blog on Psychology Today. You can also follow Doug on Twitter @dougconant.
Kathryn D. Cramer, PH.D.
Founder and Managing Partner, The Cramer Institute
