A Global Dance: My Adventures as a Fractional Executive and Parent Abroad
In the lively tango of cross-cultural communication, each participant, from a bubbly grade-schooler to a seasoned professional (me), adds their flair to the rhythm of our family's life abroad. As a fractional executive juggling diverse teams and raising a family in picturesque Tuscany through the Boundless Life program, I continue to discover amusing and enlightening parallels between guiding my young children and navigating the varied personalities and expectations in the corporate world.
Let me share a light-hearted episode: I sought medication for a sinus infection/congestion during a pharmacy visit in our quaint Italian town. The scene turned comical as the pharmacists, bemused by my attire (apparently flip flops are not a common shoe choice here) and request, looked me up and down a few times, then offered me something entirely unexpected – medication for "lactation issues!" This little misadventure amusingly underscores that sometimes, even Google Translate can't bridge every communication gap. I should have taken you more seriously, Duolingo...but I digress…
Our past few weeks have been an exhilarating blend of work and exploration. Amidst professional commitments, we've adventured to Rome, Lucca, Forte dei Marmi, Florence, Livorno, and Prato, attending Serie A soccer matches in Rome and Florence, rustic vineyard cooking classes, and, of course, the culinary delight of having two types of gelato in one cup! My days are a vibrant dance guided by curiosity and cultural richness. This mirrors my work life, where leading with adaptability and sensitivity is key, especially when working with leaders new to their roles, building strategy, or mastering the art of team dynamics.
Navigating Energetic Peaks and Valleys in the Global Landscape:
My little ones are bundles of energy, their moods as unpredictable as the Tuscan weather. Mornings and evenings are particularly eventful. Successfully communicating with them involves riding the waves of their exuberance and guiding them through their quieter moments, just like in fractional leadership, where understanding and adapting to the dynamic energies of various cultural and business backgrounds is paramount for effective communication. Here, listening intently and patiently is not just a skill but an art.
Fostering Independence and Offering Encouragement Across Continents:
In their pursuit of independence, my children light up with joy and pride in their achievements, like Beau's (my oldest son’s) newfound culinary triumphs. Encouraging their autonomy while providing gentle guidance mirrors my approach to executive leaders who appreciate autonomy yet benefit from supportive counsel. It’s about striking that perfect balance between guiding and empowering, whether ensuring Beau’s culinary creations are edible (so far, delicious) or steering a team toward collaborative success.
Active Listening and Encouraging Expression on the Global Stage:
Active listening is a cornerstone in both realms. Whether understanding my children's imaginative ideas or valuing global executives' diverse perspectives, fostering an environment where every voice is heard and respected is key. This skill is particularly crucial in my role, where aligning various departmental visions into a cohesive strategy is essential to move the ball forward.
Empathy as a Connection Tool Across Borders:
Empathy is the golden thread that weaves through all my interactions, whether with my emotionally vibrant children or the varied professionals I work with. It's about seeing the world through their eyes, understanding their unique perspectives, and being a pillar of support and guidance. Whether it’s helping my sons navigate their emotions after a long day or assisting a startup team in managing their professional and personal stresses when everyone is wearing numerous hats and working long hours, empathy remains my guiding light. Being a listener, coach, and advisor are incredibly useful tools in this role.
Common Threads: Foundations for Successful Communication:
In this global ballet of life and work, specific strategies are indispensable. Being flexible and adaptable, empathetic and understanding, and maintaining clear, open communication are the steps to mastering this dance. These strategies help navigate the unique challenges of living and working abroad and create a harmonious and successful international family and professional life. It's a dance of understanding, connection, and triumph – a dance that’s as unpredictable as it is rewarding.
