Cynthia Corsetti Of ‘Care To Lead’: 5 Things You Should Do To Become a Thought Leader In Your Industry
An Interview With Abe Alon
…Being disruptive, to me, means not being afraid to introduce a different — even radically different — point of view. It isn’t about being loud or controversial just for the sake of it. It’s about looking at the way things are done and asking, “Is there a better way?” It’s about having the guts to challenge the status quo, to go against the grain.
As a part of our series about how to become known as a thought leader in your industry, I had the pleasure of interviewing Cynthia Corsetti.
Cynthia is an internationally recognized executive coach, specializing in transforming C-suite leaders and their teams. Creator of the Care to Lead® program, she bridges inherent knowledge with consistent implementation, ensuring sustained success in the corporate world. Through unique strategies and close collaboration, Cynthia’s clients achieve immediate and lasting impact.
Thank you so much for doing this with us Cynthia! Our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share your “backstory” with us?
At the onset of my professional journey, I walked into an interview with a burgeoning tech startup, a close-knit team of about 30 individuals. Even at that early stage, there was a palpable energy in the air — the kind that whispered of immense growth and potential over the next couple of years. I was there interviewing for the role of an executive assistant. Life, however, had other plans for me. The CEO, recognizing a potential I hadn’t even seen in myself and taking a bold gamble in the face of their imminent expansion, offered me the position of HR Director on the spot. With zero HR experience to my name, this was an astounding leap of faith. I was suddenly thrust into a world where I had to navigate and learn on my feet.
I took this challenge head-on, I went back to school for a master’s degree, attained senior HR certifications, and ascended through various leadership roles. The pinnacle of my corporate journey led me to the C-suite. But, with time, I felt a calling beyond the corporate world. In 2011, I ventured into the realm of coaching, taking on my very first client. Since then, there’s been no turning back. Every twist and turn of my career has been an exhilarating part of this incredible journey.
Can you briefly share with our readers why you are an authority about the topic of thought leadership?
That’s an intriguing question, one that really makes me reflect on my own experiences and learnings. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with numerous executives and leaders, guiding them on their path to self-discovery and growth. Through years of executive coaching, authoring, and speaking, I’ve been immersed in the very essence of what makes thought leadership unique and valuable.
What I’ve come to appreciate, and what I try to foster in those I work with, is that thought leadership isn’t about proclaiming oneself an expert or having all the answers. It’s about embracing curiosity, challenging conventional thinking, and inspiring others to explore new avenues.
In my own practice, I’ve learned that the most resonant leaders are those who engage with their own journey and are willing to share that journey with others. It’s not about being a thought leader myself, but about cultivating a mindset, encouraging exploration, and helping others develop their own authentic voices.
My role has been one of a facilitator, guide, and sometimes even a fellow explorer. I don’t claim to be an authority in the sense of having a monopoly on wisdom or insight, but I do believe that my extensive experience and genuine passion for fostering growth put me in a unique position to understand, appreciate, and communicate the nuances of thought leadership.
This perspective is what I bring to the table, and it’s what I strive to share in my work. It’s not about me; it’s about the collective wisdom, the shared journey, and the transformative power of authentic engagement.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?
One of the most vivid moments from my career? It has to be during the early days in that first HR role, the one for which my qualifications seemed laughably inadequate. Barely two months in, with the ink still drying on my contract, the CEO ambushed me with what felt like an insurmountable challenge: a trip to Birmingham, Alabama, for HR due diligence of an imminent acquisition.
The weight of the task hit me hard. My heart raced, anxiety swirled, and doubt loomed large. I remember that evening with sharp clarity: cocooned in my room, phone pressed to my ear, dialing person after person with a fervent plea — “What on earth is due diligence, and how do I, of all people, go about it?”
The next days were a whirlwind — a real baptism by fire. But this experience, as harrowing as it was, sculpted me. It wasn’t just about understanding due diligence but about diving into the deep end, unearthing resources I didn’t know I had, and rising to the occasion. Reflecting upon it now, it’s evident how that one trip to Birmingham laid the cornerstone for the professional I am today. It showed me that when I put my mind to something, I could do it. No matter what it was. Would I change it? Not for the world.
Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
It happened in my first role in the C-Suite, freshly minted as the VP of HR, with nerves and excitement in equal measure. It was my first month on the job. The organization was buzzing with energy, prepping for the annual meet-up, a gathering of all employees from far-flung home offices, most of whom I hadn’t yet met. A summit of four days, filled with presentations and collaboration. Here was my golden opportunity to shine, make my mark, and be more than just another executive behind a desk.
Ditching the tried-and-true PowerPoints, I decided on a more engaging route: experiential learning. I had this perfect exercise up my sleeve, one I’d done countless times. The setup? One person with a secret image guiding the rest of the room to recreate it using only their words. A test of communication, it always drove home the point that even with the same instructions, interpretations differ. The message? The essence of clarity in communication.
But here’s the twist: my audience was a room packed with engineers. Precision is their bread and butter. So, as the chosen participant began his instructions, there was an unexpected exactness to his every word. Each pencil angle and every line length were dictated with an engineer’s precision. The room followed suit.
And when the big reveal came? Instead of a myriad of different interpretations, I was met with a sea of identical, flawlessly drawn images. The room was triumphant; I was flabbergasted.
The lesson that day? Always, always consider the audience. While my exercise might’ve flopped, the memory of it remains a testament to the importance of understanding one’s audience and adapting accordingly. And hey, it’s a story that’s always good for a chuckle in hindsight!
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the main focus of our interview. In a nutshell, how would you define what a ‘Thought Leader’ is? How is a thought leader different from a typical leader? How is a thought leader different from an influencer?
In my career as an executive coach, working closely with diverse leaders, I’ve come to recognize these as three distinct yet interconnected roles that contribute to the success of an organization.
Thought Leaders are the visionaries I’ve seen who dive deep into their fields, challenging norms and offering fresh insights that can change the trajectory of an industry. They shape narratives, provoke thought, and inspire innovation. I’ve witnessed them redraw the boundaries of what’s possible and redefine the rules of the game.
Typical Leaders are the action-oriented individuals I’ve guided, who ensure alignment, focus on execution, and lead their teams to success in the present moment. Through our collaboration, I’ve helped them steer their organizations with grace and confidence, recognizing the importance of maintaining the course while being open to new perspectives.
Influencers are those magnetic personalities I’ve encountered, who inspire others through their charm and personal appeal. They may not always have deep expertise, but their ability to connect and build trust sets trends and impacts people’s choices.
In my coaching practice, I’ve seen the interplay between these roles create a thriving environment where ideas flourish, actions resonate, and innovation is sparked. It’s not about one being better than the other; it’s about understanding their unique contributions and how they complement each other.
What sets apart the work I do with leaders is this understanding of the delicate balance between these roles, guiding them to leverage their unique strengths and contributions. By recognizing the synergy among these different leadership styles, we can create a harmonious tune that resonates with success and paves the way for a future filled with potential and growth.
Can you talk to our readers a bit about the benefits of becoming a thought leader? Why do you think it is worthwhile to invest resources and energy into this?
Becoming a thought leader isn’t just about earning recognition or status; it’s a profound commitment to a journey that I’ve seen pay dividends in multiple ways through my work with executives and leaders.
Firstly, thought leadership establishes a distinct voice in a crowded field. In my coaching, I often emphasize how this unique voice leads to credibility. When you’re recognized as someone with deep knowledge and insight, people pay attention. You become the guide rather than just another voice in the crowd. This is more than being noticed; it’s about inspiring others to reflect, question, and grow.
This personal growth is another crucial benefit. It’s about constantly learning, sharpening your skills, and pushing boundaries. I’ve seen firsthand how this commitment to growth not only enhances one’s expertise but leads to a more profound sense of fulfillment. It’s not merely about being on top of your game but about evolving and challenging the norms.
The investment in becoming a thought leader isn’t minor. It requires time, energy, and sometimes even financial resources. But the return on this investment can be substantial. From my perspective, it’s akin to planting a tree that grows and blossoms. Opportunities for collaboration, networking, and leadership tend to flourish around those who genuinely lead with their thoughts. They become magnets for innovation and partnership, something I’ve witnessed time and again in my career.
But beyond these tangible benefits, thought leadership carries a sense of legacy. It’s about making a lasting impact on your industry, influencing change, and mentoring the next generation. This ripple effect, this capacity to shape the future even in subtle ways, is something I hold in high regard.
In essence, the path to thought leadership is a multifaceted journey that I believe is well worth the investment. It’s about more than personal gain; it’s about contributing to a broader conversation, inspiring others, and leaving a mark that goes beyond your immediate sphere. It’s a fulfilling and enriching path that has resonated with many I’ve had the honor to work with, and I see it as a vital aspect of modern leadership.
Let’s talk about business opportunities specifically. Can you share a few examples of how thought leadership can help a business grow or create lucrative opportunities?
When I reflect on the entrepreneurs and businesses I’ve interacted with, I see thought leadership as the invisible spark that lights the fire of innovation. It’s not merely about following trends; it’s about creating them, challenging the existing paradigms, and carving out unique paths.
Take Sara Blakely, for example. Before Spanx, women’s undergarments were confined to the conventional. Blakely’s relentless questioning of the status quo, her desire to think outside the box and create something that genuinely met a need, led her to redefine an entire industry. Her thought leadership didn’t just create a successful business; it altered the way people thought about an everyday product.
But this isn’t confined to recent history. Thought leadership has long been the driving force behind the most transformative inventions. The Wright Brothers didn’t just invent the airplane; they challenged the very concept of travel, turning a fantastical dream into a tangible reality. Henry Ford’s assembly line wasn’t merely a new method of manufacturing; it was a radical rethinking of efficiency and accessibility.
These examples aren’t isolated instances of genius; they are manifestations of thought leadership in action. What unites them is the willingness to question, to dream, and most importantly, to act.
From my perspective, thought leadership can be a powerful engine for business growth. It inspires companies to develop innovative products, enter uncharted markets, and even redefine customer expectations. It’s not about mere incremental improvements but about leaps of creativity that resonate on a larger scale.
In the dynamic world of business, those willing to push boundaries and see beyond the immediate horizon often find not just success but transformative impact. Whether it’s reimagining a product, like Spanx, or revolutionizing an entire mode of transportation, like the airplane, the common thread is a willingness to look beyond what’s established.
In essence, thought leadership is a marriage of vision and execution, creativity and pragmatism. It’s about never being satisfied with the status quo, always seeking to improve, innovate, and inspire. And the beautiful part? It’s not confined to a select few. It’s a mindset that any business can cultivate, harness, and leverage to create lucrative opportunities, foster growth, and most of all, make a lasting impact on the world.
Ok. Now that we have that behind us, we’d love to hear your thoughts about how to eventually become a thought leader. Can you share 5 strategies that a person should implement to become known as a thought leader in their industry?
There’s a difference between being knowledgeable and being a beacon of inspiration, between being respected and being revered. Becoming a thought leader bridges this gap, elevating one from an industry professional to an industry icon. But the ascent to thought leadership isn’t accidental; it’s meticulously carved. Here are five strategies that can help someone become a thought leader.
- Be Disruptive
Being disruptive, to me, means not being afraid to introduce a different — even radically different — point of view. It isn’t about being loud or controversial just for the sake of it. It’s about looking at the way things are done and asking, “Is there a better way?” It’s about having the guts to challenge the status quo, to go against the grain.
Disruptive is more than a buzzword. It’s a way to create breakthroughs, to push boundaries, and to make your mark as a thought leader who dares to think differently. And believe me, it’s a path that can lead to some incredible places. It’s what makes thought leadership so exciting and unique.
I once worked with an executive who had a large portfolio within his organization. He had this vision for steering his organization in a new direction, focusing on sustainability. Not only was this approach unique for his organization, but his approach to sustainability was also unique for the entire industry. This idea didn’t exactly fit the current business model, it was going to be an uphill battle industry wide, but that didn’t bother him. He was passionate about it, knew what he was talking about, and even though he wasn’t the CEO, people respected him. So, he pushed his agenda, even though it was a little out there. He got push back. In the beginning, people were dismissive of him, and they weren’t welcoming his ideas with open arms. In fact, he pushed so much that it could have negatively impacted his current role and his professional reputation. But he didn’t care. He was so passionate about his unique approach that he was willing to put it all on the line.
Eventually the organization’s leadership saw his passion and supported him, creating an entirely new segment of the organization. He didn’t make that happen by sticking to the same old way of doing things. No, he made it happen because he was willing to shake things up, to be disruptive. He is now out there shaking things up in the world of sustainability. That’s the kind of spirit that can really make a difference. and make a thought leader.
2. Probe a Topic Five Depths Beyond the Surface
Thought leaders aren’t content with surface-level observations. They explore subjects in depth, examining them from various angles, considering multiple factors, and digging deep to uncover underlying truths. This nuanced understanding allows them to see connections that others may overlook and to present insights that go well beyond the obvious. This approach adds layers of richness to their perspectives, making their contributions more valuable and unique. And their perspectives and insights get noticed.
By way of example, there was this physician I came across on LinkedIn during the thick of the Covid crisis. It was a time when everyone was overwhelmed with pandemic news, but this doctor, he was different. It wasn’t just his expertise that caught my eye. It was how he shared it. He wasn’t just repeating what everyone else was saying; he was enriching it, going deep with insightful and thoroughly researched takes. He also commented a lot on posts by others, sometimes calling people out for misinformation. But he never did it as an attack, he did it with research, insight, and perspective.
I found myself so captivated by his posts that I even messaged him to ask about getting a booster — and he’s not even my doctor! That’s how much I trusted him. Fast forward to today, with Covid finally receding, his presence on that platform is still something special. Thousands hang on his every word, waiting for his perspective on the latest medical topics.
Why? Because people know he’s not just going to scratch the surface. He’ll dive deep, giving you the straight truth. He’s not just a physician; he’s become a go-to source for real, deep insights in medicine. And that’s something special, isn’t it?
3. Embrace and Utilize Your Own Creativity
Creativity isn’t just about painting a beautiful picture or composing a symphony. It’s something we all have, and it’s everywhere — in problem-solving, innovation, even how we approach the daily challenges of our lives. Embrace and utilize your own creativity, and it’s like opening a door to a whole new world.
Think about it. When you step outside that box, connect ideas that seem worlds apart, or tackle a problem from a brand-new angle, that’s when the magic happens. It’s not just about being different; it’s about uncovering solutions that no one else sees.
And trust me, people notice. Your audience, they’ll be captivated by those fresh insights, those unexpected twists and turns that make you stand out as a thought leader. It’s your unique value, your secret weapon, and all it takes is the courage to think creatively.
Let me tell you about, a client of mine, we’ll call her Alyssa, who was a young physician in pain management. She was new in her role, but she had these unique, creative insights. However, getting people to listen? That was a challenge. They thought her ideas were too different, too new. Or maybe they weren’t but the people in power didn’t want to change.
But Alyssa, she was relentless. She got creative, not just in her thinking but in how she shared her insights. She developed her own intellectual property, built her own personal brand, created new protocols, fresh ways of looking at things. She spoke to anyone who would listen, be it at conferences, workshops, or even just casual conversations.
And it wasn’t just about having different ideas; it was about making them accessible, turning complex medical jargon into something people could connect with. She crafted a novel approach to teaching professionals and making it all understandable to everyday folks.
Did it work overnight? No, but her creativity, her willingness to try new paths, to think outside the box, eventually made waves. Her employer suddenly had no choice but to listen because the world was listening. Today, she’s a luminary in her field, a sought-after speaker, and even the inspiration behind a documentary.
She’s not just a physician; she’s the creative force redefining pain management. And it all started with a young doctor who believed in her creative vision and was brave enough to share it, no matter the obstacles. That’s a lesson in creativity we can all learn from, don’t you think?
4. Be Visible
If thought leadership is on your mind, it probably means that you’ve got all these amazing ideas, insights, and perspectives. But what good are they if nobody knows about them? Being a thought leader isn’t just about what you know; it’s about being out there, being seen and heard.
Which isn’t as easy as it seems. You have to engage with your community, not just once in a while, but really being a part of it. It’s sharing your thoughts at conferences, writing articles, hopping on social media, or even just chatting with colleagues over coffee. You’ve got to make yourself accessible, be open to dialogue, and genuinely connect with others.
It’s a bit like being at a never-ending networking event, but in a good way. You’re building relationships, growing your influence, and making sure that your voice is part of the conversation. And when you do that, you’re not just a professional in your field; you’re a thought leader, a go-to person. That’s an exciting place to be, don’t you think?
You know, when I was working on the pre-launch of my book ‘Dark Drivers,’ I realized that getting my message out there meant more than just putting words on paper. So, to reach more people, I dove into podcasting. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer.
It wasn’t just about reaching more people. Podcasting let me engage with my audience, dig into the deep themes of my book, and challenge folks to think differently. I wasn’t just talking at them; I was having real conversations. And the feedback? It was like a two-way street, helping me refine my ideas and connect in a way that books alone couldn’t.
But here’s the thing — it wasn’t just about selling more copies or gaining listeners. It was about becoming part of the community, sparking curiosity, elevating the whole conversation. People weren’t just interested in ‘Dark Drivers’; they were drawn to the bigger ideas, the deeper dialogues it represented.
And yes, it did boost preorders, but more than that, it showed me the true power of thought leadership. It’s about being out there, visible, accessible, and making a real impact on people’s lives. That’s what being seen and heard can do for you as a thought leader. And it’s an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything.
5. Foster a Community of Thinkers
You know, being a thought leader isn’t just a solitary journey. It’s like what Sara Blakely did with Spanx, or how the creators of airplanes and cars looked at the world with fresh eyes. But they didn’t do it alone. They were part of a community, engaging with minds that shared their curiosity, passion, and desire to disrupt the status quo.
When I reflect on my career and the remarkable people I’ve had the privilege to know, it becomes clear that a thought leader is at the heart of a community. They’re like the charismatic person at the head of the dinner table, guiding conversations, but also leaning in, listening, and creating a space where ideas can thrive. They build connections, foster dialogue, and embrace different perspectives.
This collective wisdom, this shared pursuit of knowledge and innovation, is what keeps a thought leader fresh and ahead of the curve. It’s about collaboration, mutual growth, and creating a legacy that transcends personal success. Whether it’s being disruptive, probing deeper, embracing creativity, or being seen and heard, a thought leader knows that these aren’t just personal virtues; they’re part of a communal ethos.
Isn’t it something? These five strategies — being disruptive, probing deeper, embracing creativity, being visible, and fostering a community of thinkers — they’re not just tactics. They’re expressions of who you are as a person, as a leader. They’re not just about you; they’re about the people you inspire, the connections you make, and the community you build.
That’s the secret sauce, the golden ticket to thought leadership. It’s about being yourself and letting that unique spark shine through. But it’s also about recognizing that your spark can ignite a flame in others. That’s how you build a brand that’s not just noticed but revered and trusted. And hey, isn’t that something worth striving for?
In your opinion, who is an example of someone who has done a fantastic job as a thought leader? Which specific things have impressed you about that person? What lessons can we learn from this person’s approach?
That’s easy. Amy Edmondson. Her groundbreaking work on organizational culture is something that has not only changed the way we look at teamwork, collaboration, and leadership but has also inspired me personally.
What’s extraordinary about Amy’s approach is how she’s gone beyond the conventional to introduce the concept of psychological safety within organizations. She’s made it normal and acceptable for people to speak up, to question, to make mistakes, and crucially, to learn from them. It’s a fundamental shift in the way we think about work and leadership. It’s not confined to theories and research papers; it’s alive, it’s tangible, and it’s making real differences in the way companies function.
Amy’s not just a researcher; she’s a trailblazer. Her insights are woven into the fabric of modern organizational culture. Her courage to challenge the status quo, to innovate, and to constantly evolve is something that’s had a profound impact on me.
And here’s the part that feels very personal: Amy’s work was the catalyst for my own leadership pillars, CARE to Lead. Clarity, Authenticity, Responsibility, and Engagement. These aren’t just words; they’re the core of effective leadership, inspired by the principles that Amy championed. It’s about being clear in our vision, authentic in our approach, responsible in our actions, and engaged with those we lead.
In a way, it feels like Amy’s work has been a guiding light, helping me to formulate my ideas and principles. Her relentless pursuit of understanding, her courage in challenging existing norms, and her innovative spirit have shaped my thinking in ways I could never have imagined.
So, when you ask me about a thought leader who has done a fantastic job, my mind goes straight to Amy Edmondson. Her ideas have not only changed the business world but have also touched lives and inspired new ways of leading, including my own.
I think that’s the true mark of a thought leader, don’t you? Someone whose ideas don’t just stay on paper but come alive, create ripples, and lead to real change. Amy’s work is a testament to that, and I’m incredibly grateful for the ways it has shaped my thinking and my approach to leadership.
I have seen some discussion that the term “thought leader” is trite, overused, and should be avoided. What is your feeling about this?
Ah, I’ve come across that discussion more times than I can count. And you know what? I get where it’s coming from. In a world where anyone with an internet connection can claim expertise on a topic, terms like “thought leader” run the risk of becoming diluted.
But here’s my perspective: It’s not the term that’s the issue; it’s the essence behind it. True thought leadership isn’t just about sounding smart or rehashing popular opinions. It’s about delving deeper, questioning norms, and consistently bringing genuine insights to the table. It’s about guiding, inspiring, and sometimes even challenging the way an industry thinks.
So, while the term might be thrown around loosely, its core meaning remains intact. And for those who genuinely embody what it means to be a thought leader, the title still holds weight and value. After all, it’s not the label that defines the thought leader but their actions, insights, and the difference they make.
What advice would you give to other leaders to thrive and avoid burnout?
Burnout is that pesky little nuance that looms like a dark cloud over many leaders’ heads. It’s a genuine concern, and especially for those of us who want to stand out as thought leaders, the risk is real. But here’s what I’ve learned, and it’s something I hold close to my heart: thriving as a leader doesn’t mean burning yourself into ashes.
You see, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind, lost in tasks, deadlines, and commitments. But what happens when we get so buried in the daily routine that we forget to dream, to stretch our minds, to reach for the next exciting thing? That’s when burnout creeps in.
So, my first piece of advice? Keep things interesting! I mean, really let your imagination take flight. Always be in discovery mode. Look beyond the immediate, find the extraordinary in the ordinary, and never stop exploring new ideas, thoughts, and possibilities. It keeps the mind fresh, the spirit alive, and trust me, it’s a burnout-buster.
There’s also more to it. And it’s something we often overlook: taking care of ourselves. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? But how many of us get so entangled in our work that we ignore our health and well-being? It’s not just about eating right or hitting the gym; it’s about nurturing our whole selves, physically, mentally, emotionally.
Balance. That’s the keyword here. Balance work with play, ambition with relaxation, dreams with reality. Treat yourself with the kindness you’d extend to a dear friend. Give yourself the space to breathe, to enjoy life outside work, to be with family and friends, to indulge in hobbies, and to simply be.
Being a thought leader isn’t about racing non-stop to the finish line; it’s about pacing yourself, enjoying the journey, finding joy in learning and growing, and understanding that your well-being is not just an essential part of your success but a non-negotiable requirement.
And guess what? When you take care of yourself, when you let your mind wander and dream, when you balance your life in true harmony, you’ll find that not only is burnout a distant concern, but thriving becomes your natural state. It’s not magic; it’s mindful living, don’t you think?
That’s the path I’ve found rewarding, and I believe it’s a path that can guide others too. It’s not just about avoiding burnout; it’s about embracing a life and leadership style that’s enriching, fulfilling, and downright exciting.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)
Now here’s a question that takes me back to a concept I was preparing to share on a Tedx Talk stage before it was canceled due to COVID. If I were to kindle a movement that could touch hearts and minds, it would be themed around “I Could Be Wrong.” It’s a humble statement, but imagine the world of possibilities it opens.
In our present-day society, with its heated debates and fixed positions, admitting the possibility of being wrong seems to have become a forgotten art. Yet, this simple thought has the power to break down walls and build bridges. It’s not about doubting ourselves or undermining our beliefs, but acknowledging that we don’t have a monopoly on the truth.
Think about it: What if, before we engage in any conversation, we pause for a moment and remember, “I could be wrong”? Wouldn’t that pave the way for more compassionate and thoughtful dialogues? It’s a phrase that invites curiosity, empathy, and a willingness to understand others’ perspectives.
The “I Could Be Wrong” approach is about nurturing an environment where disagreements are opportunities for exploration rather than battles to be won. It promotes a mindset where people can voice differing opinions without fear, knowing that they’re in a space where curiosity triumphs over judgment.
Imagine a world where families, communities, and even nations approach their differences with this simple but profound mindset. The ripple effects could be extraordinary.
To me, this isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s a way of life, a path toward a more open, tolerant, and interconnected world. And the beauty is, anyone can embrace it, one conversation at a time. It’s my hope that these three small words could be a catalyst for bigger changes.
How fitting it would be if, in these divisive times, a movement like this could thrive and spread, not just as a way to disagree better, but as a way to truly connect and understand each other. Now, wouldn’t that be something?
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
One of the most transformative quotes that has continually resonated with me is by Wayne Dyer: “Change the way you look at things, and the things you look at change.” It’s like a touchstone for me. Whenever I find myself spiraling into overthinking or feeling overwhelmed, this quote serves as a gentle reminder that our perception has immense power. By merely shifting our perspective, we can transform challenges into opportunities and setbacks into stepping stones. It’s all about choosing to see situations through a lens of potential rather than limitation. This philosophy has been a guiding light, allowing me to navigate the unpredictable waters of life with resilience and optimism.
We are blessed that very prominent leaders in business and entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world with whom you would like to have lunch or breakfast? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. :-)
If I were to choose someone with whom to share a meal, it would undoubtedly be Oprah Winfrey. Her journey, her wisdom, and the profound impact she’s had on so many lives is nothing short of awe-inspiring. What I admire most about Oprah is her innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life and her unflinching commitment to making a difference.
To have the opportunity to sit across from someone of her caliber and discuss ideas like empowering others, fostering authentic leadership, and sharing meaningful stories would be a dream come true for me. I would see it as a once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn from someone who has truly mastered the art of compassionate communication and purpose-driven living.
So, Oprah, if you’re reading this, I would be deeply honored to share a brunch and a conversation about the things that matter most to us both. Even if that never happens, know that your work continues to inspire me and countless others to strive for greater understanding and connection in everything we do.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
I’m extremely active on LinkedIn, so I’d love to connect there. My website is www.cynthiacorsetti.com
Thank you so much for your insights. This was very insightful and meaningful.
