Written by Jasmyne Chung, Communications Manager, Creative New Zealand
Ni sa bula vinaka. Ko Jasmyne Chung ahau.
I’m going to be honest. This mixed-race kid felt some serious ‘imposter syndrome’ on the first day of Retreat One at The Leadership New Zealand Programme. I was asking myself: Who am I to be here, among these incredible people? Surely there are others more deserving than me? Aside from movie quotes, pop culture references and a love of chocolate, I was questioning what I could bring to the table (...unless it was literally a table covered in chocolate with flavours inspired by Arnie quotes, such as ‘Put the Cookie Down!’ and ‘Choppalicious’). But once I got over my self-doubt, I was excited to be in great company.
From the outset, we were encouraged to bring both the light and darkness within ourselves to gain the most from this experience; in other words, to bring our whole selves – not just the side we prefer everyone to see.
That advice sat with me. I applied to this Programme for the unique opportunity to create the time and space to challenge myself, refine my purpose, and identify where and how I’m best placed to serve the communities I represent. Bringing all of me – the good and the ugly (including my good ol’ friend imposter syndrome) – will be key to fulfilling this wish.
Which got me thinking. Why did we need encouragement to be vulnerable? In the age of carefully curating our social media presence to #liveyourbestlife – coupled with the responsibility of representing our families, communities and cultures – it could be argued that we’re more focused on telling the positive story or presenting a ‘polished’ version of ourselves.
However, we know that profound learnings and times of growth emerge from the darker times in our lives. I believe that how we respond to and grow from challenges and mistakes help shape who we are and make us stronger, and more appreciative of the good times.
I think of our artists; master storytellers who can create the most beautiful and moving works from sombre and difficult subject matter – to challenge, to build empathy, to entertain and to celebrate. Artists hold up a mirror to society, elegantly weaving between the dark and the light, allowing us to see things in ways we may not have considered before.
I’m interested in how this balance translates into leadership. What does bringing our whole selves mean to the roles we have and the communities we serve? How does this allow us to empower others? How would this shape our approach to building more tolerance, respect and understanding? I do know that being my authentic self, and embracing the diverse perspectives that others bring, is an important part of my worldview.
I came away from Retreat One inspired and excited. That, along with a chocolate supplier, knowing who to go to for coffee, lovely personal connections, and some useful tools to apply in life and mahi.
I’ve also made a pact with myself as part of this journey to do my best to stomp out my imposter syndrome and inner critic, and to embrace my imperfections and opportunities to be vulnerable.
Tūwhitia te hopo! Feel the fear but do it anyway!
Did Jasmyne’s story resonate with you? This is one of many courageous, enriching and impactful journeys on The NZ Leadership Programme.
Are you a mid-career, senior executive or community leader in New Zealand who cares for the future of our nation? Do you know someone who is? Applications for our 2021 Signature Programme are OPEN NOW: https://www.leadershipnz.co.nz/programme/applications-faqs