I am fascinated by ways of working, ways of thinking, and ways of being that are unconventional.

The latin root conventio means agreement.

It’s worth looking at what we are agreeing to, sometimes even at an unconscious level, so we can make conscious choices about how we live and work.

Convention upholds the status quo. Being unconventional questions it.

Nelson Mandela was driven by his belief that all people are equal and dedicated his life to overthrow the system of apartheid in South Africa.

Frida Kahlo didn’t let the male-dominated field of art stop her from painting. With no formal training, she represented Mexican and indigenous culture with her paintbrush.

Maria Montessori was the only female student enrolled in the university she attended in Rome, Italy in 1890. She graduated with such high marks that she earned scholarship to attend medical school. When she got her first job in a hospital working with mentally disabled children, she questioned the prevalent thinking that they should be in empty rooms to avoid overstimulation, and instead gave them materials to use with their hands and saw them flourish.

Convention accepts and perpetuates myths. Being unconventional exposes myths and brings the truth to light.

The medical profession in America has, for over a century, advocated for interventions during childbirth that are often unnecessary and interfere with a process that is inherent to being a woman. In recent years, a few hospitals have begun to partner with midwives and allow them to bring their ancient wisdom into the hospital delivery room, improving outcomes for mothers and babies and allowing for nature to take its course.

For decades, parenting experts have focused on children’s behavior and advocated for strategies that manage behavior, often at the expense of the parent-child relationship. Neuroscience and psychology now give parents the tools to parent in a way that honors their relationship with their child and helps them understand what’s behind the behavior. Bottom line—connection is key.

Convention follows. Being unconventional is being willing to lead.

If you are willing to put a stake in the ground and risk an unconventional point of view, you are a leader.

If you don’t accept the way things are and have a vision for what is possible, you are a leader.

If you pour yourself into your passion and turn around to see others are following, you are a leader.

How are you unconventional in the way you think, the way you work, and in who you be? And how does that help you as a leader?

Love,

Audrey