Name: Alyssa Lowe

Title: Human Resource Professional

Organisation: Non-Profit Sector

In the field of HR leadership, I offer a unique perspective. With a Master's degree in Exercise and Sports Psychology, I understand how knowledge can be transformative and how to excel in any endeavor. My leadership journey began by embracing challenges with fearlessness and empowering teams. I believe that true leadership is not about waiting for formal appointments, but about seizing opportunities to motivate and empower individuals within a team. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, exercising, and indulging in my passion for reading.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Alyssa's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

One of the hardest challenges of leadership is the fear of making mistakes. Many leaders struggle with the fear of making wrong decisions or taking risks, which can paralyze their ability to lead effectively. This fear of failure can hinder growth and innovation within an organization. To overcome this challenge, it's important to embrace a growth mindset and learn from mistakes. By doing so, leaders can become better and more effective, ultimately driving growth and innovation within their organizations.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

Throughout my life, I have taken on leadership roles in various situations where someone needed to step up and take charge in the face of adversity. My leadership journey began by courageously stepping up to the plate, with a growth mindset and the desire to motivate and empower individuals within the team. My approach involved identifying and nurturing individual strengths, which ultimately contributed to the overall growth and success of the team. Initially, the idea of venturing into uncharted territory or taking on leadership responsibilities was daunting. However, with each experience, I have steadily built my confidence in a leadership capacity. It's important to note that I did not become a leader by simply waiting for someone else to address challenges or by seeking formal appointments; rather, I proactively embraced leadership opportunities as they arose.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

My typical workday revolves around prioritizing tasks based on their significance. To guide myself during challenging moments, I always keep my personal mission statement in mind: "I aspire to leave the world better than I found it." This helps me stay aligned with positive intentions and focused on the broader purpose. To foster creativity and find unconventional solutions, I take regular gratitude breaks throughout the day. In the evenings, I make sure to spend quality time with my family. I also schedule a brief 30-minute exercise session to maintain my physical well-being. Finally, I unwind with meditation to ensure that I wake up feeling refreshed and ready for a new day.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

As leaders, we have to embrace these changes as opportunities for growth. Balancing rules and the ability to adapt creatively is like finding a sweet spot, and it takes a good sense of balance. Ultimately, being a great HR leader isn't about bossing people around; it's about empowering them to shine together. When we nurture personal growth and create an inclusive environment, success naturally follows.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

The "Gucci Mane Guide to Greatness" has profoundly impacted my leadership by serving as a powerful source of inspiration. Gucci Mane's journey from adversity to success has taught me the significance of perseverance, resilience, and determination in leadership. The book highlights the importance of being authentic and true to oneself, which Gucci Mane demonstrates by embracing his past mistakes. This vulnerability has taught me the power of transparency and openness with my team, fostering trust and stronger connections. Personal growth and continuous improvement align with my leadership philosophy, and Gucci Mane's commitment to self-improvement reminds me to constantly evolve as a leader, learn from experiences, and seek opportunities for growth. Moreover, the book underscores the value of mentorship and surrounding oneself with a supportive network. Gucci Mane's acknowledgment of the positive influences in his life has highlighted the importance of seeking guidance and support from mentors and colleagues to enhance one's leadership skills.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

If I had to offer just one piece of advice to any leader out there, it would be this: 'Stay true to your vision and never let fear hold you back.' Remember, fear is just a product of our thoughts; it's not real. Your vision, your dreams, they are real. So, believe in yourself, trust your instincts, and have the courage to chase your goals relentlessly. Don't let the fear of failure stop you from taking that first step or making that tough decision. Embrace failure as a stepping stone towards success, and keep pushing forward. Your journey won't always be smooth, but it's the challenges and setbacks that make the victories even sweeter. So, stay focused on your vision, and never stop believing in the power of your dreams.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

As a young leader, I have faced the challenge of earning the same level of respect and credibility as those with more experience. To overcome this, I have intentionally surrounded myself with individuals who excel in their respective fields. They have kindly reminded me that they too were once in my position, which was a significant moment for me. I am still at the early stages of my leadership journey, and I am determined to continue crafting it.

This experience has taught me that life presents numerous hurdles, but our ability to overcome them, persevere, and maintain an unwavering belief in our aspirations distinguishes us as leaders. It is a narrative that constantly motivates and underscores the boundless potential within each of us when we refuse to allow circumstances to dictate our destinies.