How are you influencing those who matter to you the most?

It was my intention to write this week’s blog on influence and leadership within an organisational context.

However a remark by my eldest child yesterday about ‘not waving her off on her way to school anymore because I am always Tweeting instead’ has made me change my context.

As a family, we have a limited time with each other in the mornings before heading off on our separate ways to school or work. And during this period I chose to spend some (well, a good portion, if I am honest) of that time on social media.

Her remark made me question how aligned was my action with my core my values and the messages that I were communicating.

As a parent I have a huge influence in shaping my children’s values, beliefs, attitudes and which in turn shape how they feel, think and act. I have always advocated that mothers (and fathers) are ideally placed to be prime role models for their children.

I had to question the example that was setting. Were I in the workplace with a handful of my staff for 40 minutes, what would I be doing? Chances are that we will be talking, catching up, exchanging stories and engaging in conversation.

So why is it different at home?

Where we lead and influence is not restricted to the boardroom or workplace, it is within us wherever we are and whoever we are with. Getting caught up in the responsibilities of our work can sometimes mean that we forget about those closest to us. This may result in losing sight of the needs and values of our families as we channel our efforts and energies on leading and influencing others in this competitive world of work.

Her comment was a stark reminder to ‘how am I influencing those who matter to me the most?’

Never mind the boardroom, this will be question for debate at tonight’s dining room.

Are the demands and pressures of work affecting your family? How do you maintain your core values  and align your actions to those that matter the most when the going gets tough? Love to hear your perspective