Name: Ernest Stabek

Title: Director

Organisation: SIP Mgnt Consult PL

Trusted Advisor, Executive Reality Coach and Strategic Sound Board to many

Professional Strategic Sound Board and Special Advisor Professional Networker - Human to Human connector Trusted Advisor in Commerce/Government/SME and Start Up Founders Professional Corporate and personal Coach/Mentor

Ernest helps people translate and adapt business strategy into realistically achievable and positively driven action. Ernest is a true Entrepreneur! A cut through the jargon specialist who challenges the "Insanity of the norm".

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erneststabek/

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

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

Cheers,

Jonno White

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

Being disciplined enough early in my career to find time to invest in my self-awareness and ensure that lifelong learning translates to helping others find their authentic reality.

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

I became a leader by choice. I dreamed of being a business person in Collins Street Melbourne as a young boy, after being inspired by the challenges shared with me by often wise mentors. And because I was left wondering whether the corporate world was worthy of pursuit after a broad range of roles as I searched for my authentic self and a place where I could leverage my natural talents and strengths without fear. For more about my past read my blog: https://www.erneststabek.com/blog

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

At the moment there is little structure out of necessity to focus on family first, giving back and earning to sustain. But normally I am an early bird, clearing the deck before heading out to challenge the day. I like to cram and take on challenges once, as I find my mind is clearer and more focused on doing so.

I walk for sanity and exercise and practice mindfulness in my own way. I enjoy creating many moments of calm at either end of the day. I enjoy sleeping, and reflecting and I am disciplined to ensure sleep is prioritised to keep me fresh for the moments ahead.

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

I am often reminded of compassion and gratitude for life and what impact it can have on others. In a recent complex dispute, I was reminded that the simple giving of my time to those around me is precious. It often leads to breakthrough solutions rather than following the insanity of the norm. It allows me to actively listen and learn.

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?

How to win friends and influence people was my first inspiration after years of neglecting reading. Books are now my Netflix and anything that challenges the norm or inspires positive thoughts is a winner. Dale Carnegie's book opened my mind to learning, exploring the mind and soft skills including Strengths, Emotional Intelligence, and Values and beliefs in the search for my authentic self.

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

Learn - have many mentors, and coaches and learn to actively listen, listen deeply, and enjoy the moments now. Find yourself and the rest will follow.

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

I recently caught up with a lifelong friend to celebrate his turning of age. He said afterward "You really know how to make a person feel fantastic". Imagine what we could achieve if we all supported each other in a positive and authentic way to be comfortable in our worlds, enjoy the simple moments for what they are, and use the energy to inspire us all to greater heights.

Leadership is guidance, nudging along the way, inspiring often, and being there for the hard times. Being honest and open, reflective, and using our brains to Stop, Think, and Reflect often. Pausing to consider the options, better understand the problems, and being creative in finding a pathway forward. Leaders create an environment where is safe for others to trust, find compassion, and create stability and hope with a good dose of courage.