Performance By Design

The Only Black Woman CEO In The S&p 500 Channels The Theme Of This Year’s Summit And Shares How She Leads With Intention

- Lisa W. Wardell

INTENTIONALITY IS A TERM WE HEAR FREQUENTLY IN BUSINESS, but it’s originally a philosophical term. It’s defined as “the quality of mental states (e.g., thoughts, beliefs, desires, hopes) that consists in their being directed toward some object or state of affairs.” To me, that means purposefully putting thoughts into actions to drive measurable results.

I have attempted to be intentional in my career by performing well in my current position, and by consistently seeking feedback and incorporating that guidance into my professional life. I seek out mentors to help me build my leadership skills, and use sponsors to assist me in advancing my career. I also set goals for one, three, and five years out, and regularly revisit those goals to keep myself on track.