Old dogs can learn new tricks!

I’ve came to a realization the other day – something really important that I wanted to share with all of you. I have been doing grants for over 4 years now. I really take the process personally and take great pride in my work. That said, I’ve always struggled with getting others on board in the actual submission of the proposal. The usual response is that it is a great idea – we should go for it. This is all fine and dandy, but what I really need is – this is great, we should go for it, what do we need to do to get it done? Yep, it’s that get it done part that is so critical.

In my old job, I had a really hard time feeling like I had any control over this. I’m not blaming that on anyone but myself, but I never stood up for myself. Instead, I tended to do what I could to get the grant proposal done, even if that involved very little help from others. And, I complained about it – a lot!!!

In my new job, there is a lot of desire to help and most people have a good sense of what it means to pull together a high quality proposal. Almost everyone has extensive business experiences, so while they may not have the actual grant experience, they have done project planning on all different types of levels. And, there are a lot of “worker bees” here that can assist with the project as long as their “directors” make it a priority. So, I’m finding myself with that opportunity to take on the leadership role instead of the “worker bee” role. And, I love it!! If there is interest there & time is being devoted to it, I give it a 100%. If there is interest there & time is not being devoted to it, I report it back to the “directors” and let them work it out. We either move forward or we don’t – not my decision. My time is devoted to leading the process with those who are willing to put in the work. And, that keeps me MORE than 100% busy.

I feel so liberated in this realization! I’ve always wanted the opportunity to expand my leadership skills & I’ve been given the chance. For profit is so much fun :)!