Having spent 25 years advancing through the top organizations in sports and entertainment—including the Miami HEAT and Golden State Warriors—Kim Stone is an expert at seeking out new challenges and opportunities within her organization.
In this episode, Kim explains how she balances staying hungry for new opportunities with enjoying the present and conserving energy to lead for the long haul.
From her early days in sports and journalism to her journey through various roles in the sports industry, her reflections on career transitions, family support and leadership are truly valuable. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to change, managing life transitions and prioritizing self-care and family amidst demanding careers.
She highlights the significance of identifying and nurturing leadership talent and emphasizes the role of leadership in driving organizational success. Her experiences navigating diversity and inclusion initiatives in different cultural and political contexts further underscored the importance of flexibility and innovation in addressing complex challenges.
Here are some takeaways she shared:
1. Carve out time for your family and don't forget about the importance of prioritizing self care.
Let's talk about something crucial – carving out time for your family and yourself. Sure, your job may demand a lot from you day in and day out, but when your loved ones or support system need you, it's perfectly fine to hit the pause button on work and show up for them. Remember, you're not just a professional – you're a partner, a parent, a friend. Make sure you're there for them when they need you most.
And let's not forget about self-care. You can't keep pouring from an empty cup. Whether it's indulging in a slow morning routine or reclaiming some extra time in your afternoon to recharge, don't hesitate to give yourself that much-needed break. After all, you can't run on an empty tank. Take care of yourself because you deserve it.
2. Help others rise up to success via these two ways.
Now, let's dive into something truly fulfilling—helping others reach their full potential. It's not just about the technical skills or expertise; it's about recognizing the talent and passion in those around you and providing them with the support they need to soar.
Let's make it a priority to invest in the success of our teammates. This requires a shift in mindset: When you are a leader, success isn’t just based on personal accolades but rather, on collective wins. Strive for the mentality of ‘It’s not about me but we.’
3. Be a life-long learner.
In a world that's constantly evolving, the key to staying ahead of the curve is to keep learning and adapting. My own experiences have taught me the importance of staying curious and open to new ideas. It's not just about acquiring new skills; it's about embracing change and staying relevant in an ever-changing landscape.
Let's commit to embracing lifelong learning. After all, the only way to thrive in this fast-paced world is to keep growing.
To take this episode a step further, here are some questions for you to ask yourself:
How do you currently prioritize family time and self care in your daily routine?
How do you approach empowering your colleagues to reach their full potential?
In what ways can you further cultivate a culture of support and mentorship within your team?
What steps do you currently take to continue learning and growing in your role?
Are there specific areas or skills you’re interested in developing further?