The Necessity of Negredo: Shedding the Old to Embrace Your True Purpose
In the transformative journey of personal development and success, especially for those of us who've spent decades climbing the corporate ladder, building businesses, thought leadership and our brand, the idea of making a complete shift - of releasing the old us, and embracing a whole new way of being - can be daunting to say the least.
That being said, this pivot might be a necessary one for you. In alchemy, we call this concept “Negredo.” It is not only enlightening but necessary. Negredo is the alchemical stage of "blackening" or decomposition, wherein the old is broken down to make way for the new. While the term itself may be steeped in ancient mystical traditions, its significance is incredibly relevant for today's women in their 50s, 60s, 70s and even 80’s who are standing at the crossroads of corporate success and personal fulfillment.
That feeling of “There’s got to be more than this!”.
Like me, you’ve probably spent years honing your skills, accumulating accolades, and achieving professional milestones. You've led teams, strategized multi-million-dollar projects, and perhaps even shattered some glass ceilings along the way. But for all the satisfaction these accomplishments provide, there often comes a moment when we pause and ponder, "Is this all there is?" Or perhaps, "Is there something else I could be doing that is more aligned with who I truly am?"
At this juncture, embracing Negredo isn't just an option; it's a necessity.
Letting Go of Old Perceptions
The first layer to shed is that of self-perception. Who are you outside the C-suite? The perception of yourself as solely an executive can be limiting when it comes to exploring new paths. Recognize that your professional role is just that—a role you've played, not the sum total of who you are.
For years my personal brand was that of “The LinkedIn Expert”. I had run two successful LinkedIn and social selling businesses. Written books. Spoken on stages all over the world. But I realized I could no longer fit in the mold of “the LinkedIn Expert.” Something had to change. And that’s when I started doing the inner work and found the metaphor of Alchemy to form the milestones for my transformation.
Releasing Past Successes
The trophies on your shelf were earned and well-deserved, but clinging onto them can hinder future growth. Success isn't a finite resource; there's plenty more to achieve. But to make room for new accomplishments, you must be willing to look beyond past glory and focus on the untapped potential that lies ahead. Remember, your best years are not behind you; they're yet to come.
As I stand at this crossroads, I catch myself looking back. I remember the stages I have spoken on, the accolades, the book signings, the fans, the selfies. I wonder if I will ever get that back. But then I realized, I wouldn’t want to go back to that old area of expertise. I want to stride forward onto new stages, new audiences and new experiences.
Discarding Old Expectations
Social expectations can often be our undoing. By the time women reach their 50s, society expects them to have "settled" into a role, be it as professionals, mothers, or community leaders. But who says you can't pivot and embrace a new direction? Release the societal, familial, or even self-imposed expectations that are keeping you anchored to an unfulfilling present.
For me, I started feeling invisible. The industry I once dominated was getting younger and younger, and as an older woman, my influence felt like it was fading. I felt like my impact was lessening and I knew I had much much more to do and say to the world. Just not about LinkedIn.
Embracing Your True Work
After years in the executive world, you have more than just a wealth of experience; you also have the wisdom that comes from navigating the complexities of life and work. This is the perfect time to ask yourself: "What is my true work?" Imagine a life where you can channel all the skills and wisdom you've accumulated into something that fills you with passion and purpose. This is not just a pipe dream; it's a potential reality, but only if you allow the old to decompose, to make fertile ground for the new.
Negredo is not about obliterating the past; it's about transformation. It's about breaking down the elements of your life that no longer serve you to reveal a more authentic version of yourself. And if you're standing at that pivotal crossroad, know that it's never too late to make a turn. In fact, this could be the perfect moment to begin a new journey, to pivot from a successful executive to an even more fulfilling role—whatever that may be for you.
It’s time to shed the old skins, and clothe ourselves in a renewed sense of purpose and potential. Embrace the power of Negredo, and make room for the magnificent work you were always meant to do.
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