Host: Jennifer Cowley
Guest: Elizabeth Lee MLA
Welcome to Episode 18 of the Leadership Confidence Podcast with special guest Elizabeth Lee MLA. Elizabeth is a Member of the Legislative Assembly in the ACT and the former leader of the Canberra Liberals. Prior to her election in 2016, she was a lawyer in government and private practice, as well as a law lecturer.
We explore why true leadership is a mindset rather than a formal title and how to build resilience when facing highly public setbacks. Elizabeth shares her candid experience of losing the party leadership and the critical strategy she used to maintain her self-worth. This conversation will help you understand the danger of tying your entire identity to your profession and show you how to build a multifaceted life that protects your confidence.
Key Takeaways
Diversifying your identity: Do not let your job title define you as a person. Building a life, passions, and a support network outside of your professional obligations ensures that a career setback does not destroy your core confidence.
Stepping onto the balcony: Leaders often get dragged onto the dance floor to handle the daily grind and minor details. You must intentionally step up to the balcony to see the bigger picture, guide your team’s vision, and avoid reactive decision-making.
Embracing motherhood in leadership: Taking maternity leave as a leader in the public eye is not a weakness. It sets a necessary example for future generations and honours the women who fought for this right.
Navigating public failure: Mistakes and failures are inevitable. Reflect on them honestly to understand team dynamics and personal expectations, then move forward without compromising your authentic self.
Links and Resources
Elizabeth Lee
Connect with Elizabeth: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
Parliamentary Email: lee@parliament.act.gov.au
Jennifer Cowley
Book an Imposter Syndrome Reset Session: Jennifercowley.com/reset
Watch or Listen to Previous Episodes: jennifercowley.com/podcast
Connect with Jennifer: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube
Shop Clothing for Professional Women: Peakwomen.com.au
