Revelation

I have learned a great deal over the past two years during my time in Corporate America. I have learned that it is not at all what I thought it would be and that the real world can be downright unpleasant. Yes, there is the occasional joy that comes from learning something new and accomplishing something you never dreamed you were capable of achieving. The opportunity to be involved in projects that challenge you and produce results dreamed up and developed by creative minds is great. Being involved in challenging work, broadening your mind beyond anything you learned in your undergraduate studies is an amazing thing. 

But at some point, at least this was the case for me, reality sets in and you realize there's so much more to this corporate game than meets the eye. Corporate America is not just about your work or the amazing results you are capable of producing. It also includes being social and knowing the right individuals, making the right moves at the right time, and of course, being able to manage the murky waters of corporate politics.

Sounds simple enough right? And for the most part, I think it can be. Be above average in your job with the right amount of inquisitiveness and a strong desire to succeed, you're golden. Be active, build your network, internal and external to the company. You can even achieve much and reach your dreams with less than superb social skills.

The unpleasantness that I mentioned before comes from Human Nature being thrown into the mix- the "murky waters" is what I am talking about. These are the things that can blindside you if you're not expecting it and are not prepared. The murky waters can include, but are definitely not limited to: 

• Cliques
• Backstabbing
• Jealousy
• Etc.

So, the clarity came when I realized that, yes I have to pray and heed God's wisdom and command, and ultimately He knows the plans He has for me. These are simply trials that I am having to face. I am only responsible for my actions, my work product, and bringing God glory (also known as not going Ape s*** on anyone even though my flesh really REALLY wants to). I am responsible for maintaining my professionalism, values and most importantly, my character-the essence of who I am, at all times and cannot allow myself to be baited into something that I will have to answer to in the future. 

I read a quote this morning:

"A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus." -MLK, Jr.

That spoke volumes to me today-especially because I have seen a lot of leaders searching and not molding. Now, by no means do I consider myself to be the leader that I dream of being one day, but I am striving to be exactly what this quote means. A leader doesn't conform to any one's standards nor does he/she seek to search for what the general consensus is saying or doing simply to fit in. Doing so will cause you to lose yourself...I really believe that. And, if following the beat of my own drum causes me to be an outcast, so be it. I am willing and ready to accept the outcome that is waiting for me, and like I said, God knows the plans and all the blessings He has in store for me.