Reading “Lean In”

When book club decided to read Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg, I was not that excited. However, I have actually found the book to be very interesting. She discusses research about workplace and home issues that affect everyone, especially women. She has simple and effective suggestions to change old patterns of behavior that hold us back. I would say the advice could apply not only to women but to introverts of both genders.

Here’s an excerpt that I especially liked, and it’s timely for graduation season.

Padmasree Warrior, Cisco’s chief technology officer, was asked by The Huffington Post, “What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned from a mistake you made in the past?” She responded, “I said no to a lot of opportunities when I was just starting out because I thought, ‘That’s not what my degree is in’ or ‘I don’t know about that domain.’ In retrospect, at a certain point it’s your ability to learn quickly and contribute quickly that matters. One of the things I tell people these days is that there is no perfect fit when you’re looking for the next big thing to do. You have to take opportunities and make an opportunity fit for you, rather than the other way around. The ability to learn is the most important quality a leader can have.”

Visit the website for Lean In or check out the book from your local library.