Crossing Your Comfort Zone
I recently went one on one with Amanda Talty, President and CEO of the Tourette Association of America.
Adam: Thanks again for taking the time to share your advice. First things first, though, I am sure readers would love to learn more about you. How did you get here? What experiences, failures, setbacks or challenges have been most instrumental to your growth?
Amanda: A lot of my experiences and work ethic was influenced by my father. He empowered me to make my own decisions and mistakes while also reminding me there is a world out there that will keep moving without me. My mother had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder when I was young, and they divorced when I was about 7 years old. These experiences have shaped the person and the leader I am today.
Adam: What would you like everyone to understand about Tourette syndrome? What should leaders in particular understand?
Amanda: Tourette Syndrome is so misunderstood and mocked. Please take the time to learn about what TS is and more importantly what it’s not, remember to be compassionate, and if you do not understand why someone is doing something just ask. Leaders should learn about the disorder because I guarantee at least one employee of theirs is impacted by TS or a co-occurring condition, like ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, or more.
Adam: In your experience, what are the defining qualities of an effective leader? How can leaders and aspiring leaders take their leadership skills to the next level?
Amanda: If you are comfortable, you are doing something wrong. It’s important to always push yourself outside your comfort zone because that is where the growth happens.
Adam: What are your best tips on leading a non-profit organization?
Amanda: Non-profit work isn’t easy and at times it can be thankless. I think people go into the field with the best of intentions but forget that, at the end of the day, non-profits are businesses too. We have budgets and have to make tough decisions on how to best use the limited resources we have. Non-profits have to demonstrate impact to ensure it can convince donors they are a worthy investment. We aren’t selling widgets. We are selling something even less tangible at times, hope. And that’s not always an easy thing to sell or provide. It takes determination, a thick skin, quick thinking, and a wicked sense of humor.
Adam: More broadly, what are three best tips applicable to entrepreneurs, executives, and civic leaders?
Amanda: 1. Closed mouths don’t get fed. If you aren’t asking for what you want, you will likely not get it.
2. Find your tribe. Its important to surround yourself with people who encourage you, support you and when necessary, dispense a little tough love.
3. Self-awareness and authenticity is the new currency. You have to know your blind spots and you need to surround yourself with people who see them for what they are and aren’t afraid to tell you.
4. Do not be afraid to ask the hard questions or speak about the elephant in the room. People may not agree with you, but they will respect you for speaking up. And if they don’t, who cares?
Adam: What is your best advice on fundraising?
Amanda: The F word. It isn’t as scary as it may seem and people are more generous than you may realize. Take time to learn about those you are asking for support from. If you are really serving them well, it will get easier.
Adam: What advice do you have for those interested in working for a non-profit?
Amanda: Go for it. Take time to understand the mission and it will be the an extremely rewarding experience if you allow it. Doing good feels good but it is not easy. You must really care. You cannot fake it.
Adam: What is the single best piece of advice you have ever received?
Amanda: Like mentioned earlier, my father empowered me to make my own decisions and mistakes while also reminding me there is a world out there that will keep moving without me. In addition, a longtime donor of the organization who has had severe tics for most of his life said to me, “The things you take for granted, going to the movies, having dinner at a restaurant, spending a quiet evening at home…. Those are things I can’t enjoy.” I try to draw from that and remember how much the community needs the TAA on their side, fighting for their right to do the things we may take for granted.
Adam: What can anyone do to pay it forward?
Amanda: Step out of your comfort zone and get involved in a nonprofit in your local community. Join a board, learn about what organizations are in your backyard and see how you can help.