I read a great post from Mike Brown in his blog, Brainzooming, about “hustling” and how it ties directly back into individual leadership. A hustler is defined by Merriam Webster as “an enterprising person determined to succeed; a go getter.” Mike Brown asks the question, “are you a hustler?” My first reaction was negative. We tend to think of a hustler as something shady, a shyster (and yet “hustle” is always thought of as a positive word! Ah, our English language…). But, in fact, people whom we consider to be great individual leaders are generally hustlers—moving with careful focus and thoughtfully responding to events. Mike lists ten “hustle traits” needed for success, but I will highlight just one—having no fear.
When we are hustling, we are not slowed down by a lack of courage. We are fearless. This is not to say that we are reckless or have crazily abandoned all reason. Fearlessness is what makes you boldly raise your hand. It’s what drives you to seek out a new contact and not take “no” for an answer. It’s what allows you to volunteer for a new project. It’s what takes you into a new market or spurs you to launch a new product. Most people who express an interest in achieving something more are grounded by a lack of courage.
But you can’t take a class in fearlessness. There is no Cowardly Lion School of Boldness. But you can start taking small steps. You can learn. Take one small bold step today. Then see the results. If it turns out well for you—great! That will reinforce your interest in taking the next, bigger bold step. If it doesn’t turn out great, then don’t give up. Persevere and try again. Keep trying small bold steps until you find one that works out and then focus on enhancing that type of boldness. Be fearless at least one time each day. Start today!