As I look back on my many accomplishments, I’ve realized something I didn’t have the maturity to see earlier in my career: in my desire to strive for perfection, I often overlooked the power of refinement.
I was so focused on the next challenge, the next metric, the next innovation, that I missed opportunities to amplify my voice by zeroing in on the strengths I already possessed — and minimizing the weaknesses that didn’t need to define me.
Growing up in technology sales, my world was built on momentum.
Bigger numbers.
Faster growth.
Smarter strategies.
The constant push to build a better “mouse trap,” instead of pausing long enough to refine the one I had already mastered.
That mindset served me well in many ways, but it also kept me from recognizing the deeper gifts that were already shaping my leadership.
Over time, I’ve learned that we are all wired with a unique set of strengths:
Some people have the gift of managing up with grace and clarity.
Others excel at harvesting ideas, refining them, and turning them into something extraordinary.
And then there are the rare ones — the truth‑tellers, the glass‑breakers, the leaders who speak with conviction and use their voice not to elevate themselves, but to clear the path for others.
These are the people who break the glass ceiling and then stay long enough to make sure no one else gets cut on the shards.
They reach back, reach down, and reach across to help others avoid missteps and find their own footing.
That is rare air — and it’s the kind of leadership I aspire to embody more fully.
As I step into 2026, I’m choosing a different kind of growth.
Not the relentless pursuit of “more,” but the intentional refinement of what’s already within me.
I’m looking at my strengths with fresh eyes, asking how they can be sharpened, expanded, and used in service of others.
I’m acknowledging my weaknesses not as flaws, but as areas to manage wisely so they don’t become barriers.
This year, I encourage all of us to take inventory of our special powers — the gifts we’ve earned, inherited, or developed through experience — and ask how we can use them to help others win.
Growth is not a solo sport.
Leadership is not a spotlight.
And success is not complete unless it lifts someone else.
Happy New Year!!
Written by : Marietta Colston-Davis
