Last week I was privileged to speak at the launch of the USC’s Women in Leadership Society at the Annenberg School for Communication, my alma mater. An amazing organization founded by Professor Christopher Smith to provide support, build self-confidence, build community and connect young female undergraduates who are at the intersection of tech, media and entertainment. So what could I possibly say to these young women?
First, I remembered what a challenging time USC was for me, my parents had gone bankrupt and I was putting myself through school. I had boyfriend problems, was trying to figure out my path and the basic challenges of having fun, growing up and juggling it all that all young co-eds face.
I wanted these young women to know that we all go through this. More importantly, I wanted them to have a bigger goal and keep their eye on the prize. So often, the vision is short-sighted and they can only focus on the internship, the A, the diploma or the job. I want them to focus on living a life full of purpose, where you are using your gifts to the greatest ability.
While leadership is a tool that helps you on the path to acquiring all of the above, isn’t the real goal of leadership simply one life inspiring another? I shared my favorite leadership quote by Woodrow Wilson who said, “You are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world, and you impoverish yourself if you forget the errand.”
Because Leadership is at its essence….one life simply inspiring another and after all, isn’t that is the purpose?
Charity Matters.
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5 Comments
Well Said, Heidi! Kudos to you…..
Mimi
We cannot thank you enough for coming to WLS and inspiring our members! You are right about the essence of leadership and we are striving toward that everyday.
You all are the inspiration!
Heidi
Thank you so much for taking the time to come speak with us! It is important for the members (and me) to hear how everyone has these struggles and we too often get caught up in these. Rather, we should remind ourselves our bigger goal and purpose and that will be something I hope the members will strive for.
Beautifully said Celestine, thank you for all you do to bring purpose and guidance to all your amazing members!