Leaning in means embracing a challenge or opportunity with determination and perseverance. It is about actively stepping forward and giving your best effort to succeed. When faced with a new task or goal, leaning in requires a mindset of commitment and a willingness to push beyond your comfort zone.
In my personal journey as a sommelier and brewer, I have often had to lean into new experiences and challenges. Whether it was learning about a new wine region or experimenting with unique beer recipes, I had to push myself to acquire knowledge and skills that were unfamiliar to me. It was not always easy, but by leaning in, I was able to grow and develop in my craft.
One aspect of leaning in is accepting the fact that there may be obstacles or setbacks along the way. It is about embracing these challenges as opportunities for growth rather than seeing them as roadblocks. For example, when I first started as a sommelier, I encountered difficulties in accurately describing the flavors and aromas of different wines. Instead of getting discouraged, I leaned into the challenge by seeking out additional training and practicing my sensory skills. Through perseverance and dedication, I was able to improve and become more confident in my abilities.
Leaning in also means being proactive and taking initiative. It involves seeking out new opportunities and being willing to take on additional responsibilities. As a brewer, I had the opportunity to create unique beer recipes for special events. Instead of simply sticking to the tried and true, I leaned in by experimenting with different ingredients and brewing techniques. This willingness to take risks and explore new possibilities allowed me to develop innovative and exciting brews that were well-received by customers.
To effectively lean in, it is important to have a growth mindset. This means embracing challenges as opportunities for learning and development. It requires a willingness to step outside of your comfort zone and embrace the unknown. As a sommelier, I have attended numerous wine tasting events where I had to blind taste different wines and make educated guesses about their origin and varietal. Initially, this was an intimidating experience, but by leaning in and embracing the challenge, I was able to enhance my tasting abilities and expand my knowledge of wines.
Leaning in is about wholeheartedly accepting a challenge or opportunity and putting in the effort to succeed. It involves embracing obstacles, taking initiative, and having a growth mindset. By leaning in, we can push ourselves to reach new heights and achieve our goals, both personally and professionally.