In light of what has been circulating in the media regarding the Royal Family, I found myself watching a series on Netflix called ‘The Crown”. As I watched, I could not help but find several the similarities between the kingdom that has had 61 monarchs spread over a period of approximately 1200 years, and the modern world we find ourselves in today. In a particular scene, a member of the cabinet said, ‘Heavy is the head that wears the crown’. It resonated with me differently, because we can all relate to this.
We all have a heavy crown that we wear, and the expensive jewels that cause its density comes in the shape of career progression pressures, the feeling of stagnation, Hierarchy politics, overworked and underpaid woes, and the list goes on. Within the monarchy, you see political agendas being pushed, alliances being formed through strategic marriages, and supremacy being fought for through the dominance of power.
All of these can be found in the corporate world today, in cultures, employees, and employers.
But like a King or a Queen, you are in charge of our own monarchy. Your monarchy is your career, your aspirations, your team, mental health, wellness, piece of mind, and anything else that you have ownership of and take accountability for. On this journey of life and career fulfilment; we all need council, and this can be sought after from members of your cabinet such as mentors, family members and fellow peers; This can provided as a sufficient guide, but ultimately you have the final stay over the governance of your kingdom.
In order to ensure effective leadership, you have to understand your objective, assess your position like a piece on a chess board, and pick your battle wisely before you implement your move. Look at the battle you face; are the agendas you’re trying to push, substantial enough to achieve the greater good? In order words, the issues you face on the path to career development and fulfilment; are you pushing against the factors that will ensure your aspirations? or are you self-sabotaging yourself by engaging in wars that stunt your growth?
It is virtually impossible to adapt to the governance and hierarchy of every employer and culture because you have no control of the structure in which it was built on. However, you are in charge of how that governance affects you. If the decisions you make, yields the outcome you want, then that is great. If it doesn’t serve your purpose and future aspirations; make the necessary adjustments and move on. Do not let another governance shed darkness over your monarchy, you can only survive where you thrive.
The corporate world as we know it has its complications, and it can be comparable to countries who have conflicting views within its own governance. However, what makes these countries and organisations successful, is their employment of talented professionals and cabinet members that represent diversity, and an ethos that is acceptable to socio-economic development.
The most important governance is your own; How you manage your career progression, expectations, and aspirations is specifically unique to you. The monarchy that governs that is YOU, as an individual. Put yourself first as the King and Queen of your own monarchy, your governance as a leader should be a true representation of what you stand for morally and professionally.
