Leadership: The Muffin-Top Deluision
Posted on 22. May, 2012 by Denise Martin in Blog, Coaching, Leadership and Development
Graphic by Antony Bennison
Yesterday I did it again. Went too far. Asked the question that didn’t need to be asked.
My son just finished a book report. (Always a fun family project) and we were discussing symbols.
I asked him, “if you were to choose a symbol that represents who you are now, what would it be and why?”
He thought for a minute and answered, “a flame.”
He then explained why he chose it with insight and depth I didn’t expected from a fifth grader.
In my surprise – I fell prey to my own curiosity and took it to the next level, not heeding the little voice warning me not to go there… I went there.
“If you were to guess what symbol I would chose, not just as your mom but who I am deep down, what would you guess I’d pick?”
He barely paused. “A muffin top.” He choked through his laugh.
Yes. Of course I was mature. Gave him a playful punch in the arm and wrestled him to prove I am “skinny-tough enough” to still take him. But then had to look in the mirror. How bad is that “muffin-top?” Am I kidding myself? Not seeing what the kid sees? (more…)