Stepping into another's shoes...

It was a beautiful summer evening under the shadow of the mountain.

We carried our picnic basket filled with snacks and drinks, ready for an evening of entertainment at the Kirstenbosch botanical gardens.

The gardens, stunning as always, were alive with energy as families gathered on the lawns for the popular Sunday summer concerts, enjoying music against the majestic mountain backdrop. The grassy slopes were packed, leaving barely a free patch to sit.

Children darted around playing, couples shared glasses of wine, and families and friends soaked in the moment. The scene was vibrant and joyful.

When the main act took the stage, I was excited. I’d photographed this band years ago and had last seen them perform in Switzerland before they disbanded. The MC introduced a new lead singer, sharing that this was her first major performance with the band. As we listened to her renditions of their well-loved tunes, I couldn’t help but notice something was off.

The songs, originally written for the previous lead singer’s voice, didn’t quite suit the new vocalist. Despite her best efforts, the fit wasn’t natural.

However, when she performed a new song, it was as if a spark had been lit. The song, influenced by the blues, suited her voice perfectly, showcasing her talent in a way the earlier numbers couldn’t.

Watching her, I felt for her. Stepping into a role shaped for someone else isn’t easy. It’s like wearing a pair of shoes broken in by someone else: they might fit, but they’ll never feel entirely comfortable.

This experience reminded me of business: sometimes, it’s better to create something new that aligns with your unique strengths rather than try to squeeze yourself into a mold designed for someone else.

We each have our own strengths, and by honoring them, we can build businesses that reflect who we truly are.

And for tasks or roles that don’t align with our strengths? It’s okay to delegate.

Lesson 1: Build Around Your Strengths

Trying to fit into a mold designed for someone else can feel forced and unnatural. Instead, focus on your unique strengths and talents. In business, shape your offerings, strategies, and processes to reflect who you are at your core. When you align your work with your strengths, it becomes more authentic and sustainable.

Lesson 2: Delegate What Doesn’t Align

Just as the new singer found her own voice with the right song, you can focus on what you’re best at and delegate tasks or roles that don’t align with your skills. This creates space for you to shine and ensures your business runs smoothly.

Here's to shaping your business to play to your strengths

Lenore