How To Go From Ugly Duckling Leader To Swan

How Do Ugly Duckling Leaders Realize That They’re Swans?

Since ugly duckling leaders are getting negative feedback about their unique traits and being overlooked for leadership roles, how do they find out that they’re not ugly ducklings after all?

In order to recognize that they’re really a swan that’s being mislabeled, they will need an accurate mirror.

What Is An Accurate Mirror?

Accurate mirrors come in many forms.

Depending on which type of accurate mirror you choose, it may not only help you see yourself better, it can also help you find your flock and learn how to fly.

Types of Accurate Mirrors

  • Mentorship

  • Sponsorship

  • Leadership development programs

  • Better job / culture fit (i.e., joining the right flock)

  • Peer support communities (i.e., finding fellow swans)

  • Role models

  • Telling your story

Most of the accurate mirrors listed here require another person or group. There's only one that you can do entirely on your own: tell your story.

When you start to share your story and experiences as an ugly duckling leader, it can not only help you recognize your own leadership abilities, it can become a beacon for other ugly duckling leaders who are looking to be seen as the swans they are by a flock they can call their own.


 

Are you a BIPOC, LGBTQ or neurodivergent leader?

  • Tired of being overlooked for leadership opportunities because you don’t ‘fit the mold’?

  • Ready to go to the next level of leadership, but lack the confidence or support to get there?

  • Want to create your own brand of leadership that celebrates differences versus demanding that every leader look and act the same?

The Unlikely Leader Mini-Course is for you!

Start embracing your differences instead of hiding them. Connect with other like-minded leaders in a virtual community. Develop your skills in the 4 leadership disciplines.

As a Bonus, you’ll get 1-month Free membership to Masterplan University - a leadership learning community for culture-conscious leaders.

 
kisha solomon

Kisha Solomon is the founder of The Good Woman School. A writer, traveler and thinker, Kisha has made a career as a strategic advisor to corporate executives and small business owners. Her ‘big why’ includes elevating the status of black women and people of color around the world. 

Visit her personal blog at:

https://www.kishasolomon.com
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The Level 1 Leader

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The 3 Contrasting Traits of Ugly Duckling Leaders