Each one of us has at least one superpower, and many of us have more than one. It can vary tremendously from person to person and is a unique reflection of an individual’s strengths and abilities.
One of my superpowers is being able to discover and communicate a vision of higher purpose, mission, and meaning to people that is inspiring, magnetic, and energizing. This superpower helps me attract amazingly talented people to join our team who are excited by the company’s potential to be both highly successful and positively impactful in the world. This unleashes the collective energy and creativity of the team to both innovate and operate at very high levels.
As leaders, we are only as good as our team. The more self-aware we are as leaders, the more effectively we will be able to attract a team that can compensate for our own weaknesses. This can make a huge difference in cultivating a positive team dynamic and in promoting overall productivity. For example, I tend to focus my creativity and energy on entrepreneurial possibilities and opportunities that have the potential to change our world for the better. Without a trusted and talented leadership team comprised of people who are more focused on the details and considerations that come with operationalizing ideas, my strength can become a weakness that will cause the organization to underperform.
I was extremely fortunate to have worked with an incredibly talented team during my 44 years at Whole Foods Market. Now, I have once again embarked on an entrepreneurial adventure with Love Life!—a unique combination of healthy plant-based restaurants, wellness centers, and lifestyle medical clinics. As we create and develop Love Life!, my superpower has once again blessed me with working with exceptionally talented individuals who are deeply passionate about our company’s higher purpose: to inspire people to love life and live well. I think we are going to do some wonderful things at Love Life! and I can’t wait to see what our team is going to create together. It is very hard work, of course, but it is also so much fun!
Every person has at least one special superpower. What’s yours?