The Importance of Saying 'Yes' to Yourself with Akasha Saunders

You have to say yes to yourself before you say to yes to others... "Like, self love, self leadership, self observation, self value, self empowerment and it might sound like a lot of self, it kind of is, but it's really... I promise you, that is really not the ego. Well, the ego is involved in some ways. But I don't mean it in the sense of, like, be full of yourself. Although I do kind of mean it in the sense of being full of yourself, maybe capital S, self or soul or something that's synonymous with God or universe. But be full of that. Be full of that and lead yourself from that place.. - Akasha Saunders (Want to read a full written for reading transcript version of this episode? Download it here.) Who is Akasha Saunders? In his own words, Akasha is a pilgrim, educator and coach who has over 10 years of professional experience. He brings a constructive developmental approach to fostering diversity in organizations as he works with them on increasing awareness for inclusion among all people of all genders. And especially among those from underprivileged backgrounds or whose voices haven't been heard before. Akasha shares his views on applying love and values in the leadership journey From listening to this conversation, you'll understand how important Akasha's immediate family has always been to him. From his childhood years growing up with his granny, and all the wisdom he learned from her and how she taught him all about manifestation and prayer. And then through his 'false start' accepting a career of working in a bank which didn't sit right with his values. Interestingly, this was one of the main catalysts for his launch into leadership training. Right up until meeting one of his most impactful ever teachers - his own teenager. This is a conversation that educates and inspires. Oh, and an explanation all around Sawubona! - I see you! Akasha says it's not 'one way or the highway' What's apparent in this conversation is Akasha's approach to cultivating leadership and talent, while respecting existing cultures. He demonstrates awareness of the differing approaches to challenges and how there is not one mould that must set the template for things. Key leadership learning moments 02m28s - Young Akasha 06m04s - Culture and differences 16m24s - Saying 'yes' to yourself first 26m03s - Akasha's thoughts on approach to work and theory 30m36s - Steve Jobs and the five year old Akasha 34m26s - How parenting helped Akasha grow 49m08s - Future Akasha and what matters to him Useful links and shout outs in the episode Akasha's website Akasha's LinkedIn Follow the podcast If you've just stumbled across this podcast episode by chance, please do click here to follow it so you never miss a future episode. If you want to learn more about this podcast, and myself, Sope Agbelusi, you can do so using any of the below links. Connect with Me Website Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Email: [email protected] I am always keen to hear your thoughts and connect with the community of listeners. If you have any comments, feedback or thoughts, please drop me an email at https://mindsetshift.co.uk/#ask-me-anything Connect with SopeWebsite | Youtube | Instagram | LinkedInDid you find this helpful? If you like this episode, please leave a review or share it with someone who could benefit from listening.  We’re always keen to get feedback so if you have any thoughts, send us an email at [email protected]