The Success Delusion

Looking back at ConcertIDC's journey so far, we've thrived in an environment of success. Our growth has been remarkable, our culture vibrant, and our team united. Yet, success is a tricky companion. It can create a delusion, a belief that what got us here will effortlessly carry us forward.   

The past year has been a period of reflection for me. I've immersed myself in self-study, absorbing insights from fellow CEOs, challenging my assumptions, and confronting the uncomfortable reality that success can breed complacency. What brought us from 2019 to 2020 and even 2020 to 2023 won't be the fuel for the journey from 2023 forward.  

ConcertIDC and other companies must keep fighting against complacency and challenge what we think we know about our success.  

The success delusion is a trap we must avoid. It's easy to rest on our laurels, to believe that we've reached the pinnacle. However, authentic leadership demands a continuous commitment to growth and adaptation. This realization led me to question the very essence of our achievements. Are we content with being "good enough," or do we aspire for greatness?  

As I looked to the future, digging into a solid plan, it became abundantly clear that I needed to evaluate the past. As I assessed the past, I could not ignore the question, "Where am I as a leader?" Enter the concept of 360-degree feedback. I subjected myself to candid evaluations from peers, subordinates, and past mentors. It was a humbling experience. The good news is that overall, I am seen as a good leader who needs to work on impatience and time management; the bad news is that some people in our organization don't care enough to give honest, constructive feedback. A perfect score feels hollow when you are honestly and earnestly seeking feedback. Feedback, given and received, stems from a place of care, a desire for mutual growth.  

In this journey of self-discovery, I stumbled upon Marshall Goldsmith's book, "What Got You Here Won't Get You There." The title alone is a poignant reminder that evolution is constant. Success is not a final destination; it's a milestone on an ever-unfolding path.  

Goldsmith emphasizes that successful people often fall into the trap of delusion. We overestimate our abilities, resist negative feedback, and become prisoners of our success. Breaking free from this delusion requires a mindset shift—from being managers of change to becoming leaders who drive and embrace change.  

Change is uncomfortable. It challenges our routines, disrupts our comfort zones, and forces us to confront uncertainties. However, change is also the catalyst for growth, innovation, and creating a future we've yet to imagine.  

At ConcertIDC, we believe in constant evolution, a commitment to growth and adaptation that underscores our work. This is integral for us and any company to master.  

I've come to recognize that my role extends beyond managing change; it's about leading change. It's about instilling a culture where every team member is a catalyst for change, where we eagerly seek breakthroughs, not just settle for improvements. This isn't a one-time endeavor; it's a continuous process woven into the fabric of our organization.  

So, what's my personal "why"? It's about changing the game. I want to prove that boundaries are meant to be pushed, that collaboration knows no geographical limits, and that innovation can thrive in diverse environments.  

Change isn't just a necessity; it's an opportunity to redefine what's possible. As you navigate your journey, with ConcertIDC or not, embrace change, challenge the success delusion, and strive not just for improvements but for breakthroughs. Let's be architects of our evolution, creating a future where our collective potential knows no bounds.