Grounded

It’s difficult to say what quality is most important for success in a profession, in business, or even in life, but the more I read and write and research and interview, the more I think that groundedness is an essential ingredient. Put in the obverse, I can’t think of a single success story where the individual in question was not grounded.

So, what do I mean by grounded? Certainly not in the electrical sense, although that might be a useful way of thinking about it. Perhaps it’s best thought of as standing strong, with one’s feet planted firmly on the earth. Solid, sure, steadfast. The New Testament has an interesting expression, “rooted and grounded” – now that’s a pretty firm foundation!

Grounded people know who they are, where they fit, from whence they came, and although they can’t predict the future, they’re not afraid of it, confident that though they may not win every battle, they will acquit themselves well.

To be grounded you need to be sure of yourself, not in any sense of arrogance or cocksureness, but simply with a quiet confidence that “I can do what needs to be done.” You need to love yourself without being infatuated with yourself. You need to have enough fear to keep you on your toes, but not so much you’re paralyzed.

The grounded person is comfortable in solitude, yet enjoys the company of good men and women, the delight of thoughtful conversation, but also the sacredness of quiet contemplation. If you are well grounded, you’re not afraid of contrary opinion, which you will treat with respect and curiosity, but not contrariness.

Groundedness is a gift given to us by our parents, our teachers, our spouses and partners, our friends, and even our adversaries. But it’s also an attribute which must be consciously acquired and nurtured, the notion being that each day I determine to be stronger, wiser, kinder, and more useful.

When you are grounded you have the courage to make hard choices and the strength to follow through. Only when your feet are firmly planted do you have what it takes to understand who you are, what you can do, and who needs what you offer. If this sounds like an iteration of the Alignment Principle, you’re right– and this explains why all the successful professionals are grounded.