Be Tough Like Leather But Well Put Together: How Agile Principles Can Transform Your Career

“Be tough like leather but well put together.” My grandmother would often say this to me while I was growing up in Rodessa, LA. This mantra has guided me throughout my life and career. In the workforce, we are frequently told to develop thick skin, endure hardships, and that over time, things will improve. This belief of enduring the struggles with difficult people and challenging environments often shapes our professional journeys. For years, I subscribed to this notion. I believed that toughness and perseverance were the keys to career satisfaction. However, a shift in my thinking over the last few years led me to question this narrative. What if the path to fulfillment lies not just in endurance, but in discovering what truly drives us and brings us joy?

The Shift in Perspective
After years of adhering to the “tough like leather” approach, I made a significant change. I transitioned into an industry where diversity was scarce, particularly in the world of entertainment and anime. Despite the initial challenges, I found an environment where my unique perspective was not only welcomed but valued. In this space, I developed a new thought process, rooted in the principles of Agile methodology, which transformed my interactions with peers, bosses, and leaders.

Agile principles, typically associated with software development, can foster an innovative mindset within any organization. They emphasize adaptability, collaboration, and continuous improvement, offering a refreshing contrast to the traditional, hierarchical models often seen in corporate settings. Here’s how Agile principles can disrupt conventional narratives and cultivate innovation.

Embracing Change and Adaptability
In traditional settings, the rigid hierarchy often stifles innovation. Decisions flow from the top down, and employees are expected to follow established procedures without question. Agile disrupts this narrative by promoting adaptability. According to the Agile Manifesto, responding to change is more valuable than following a plan. This principle encourages teams to be flexible and open to new ideas, fostering a culture where innovation can thrive.

In my current role, this adaptability has been crucial. Instead of sticking rigidly to outdated methods, my team and I are encouraged to experiment, learn from failures, and continuously improve our processes. This dynamic approach not only enhances our productivity but also keeps us motivated and engaged.

Collaboration Over Hierarchy
Agile emphasizes the importance of collaboration. Cross-functional teams work together towards common goals, breaking down silos and fostering a sense of shared purpose. This collaborative environment is a stark contrast to the traditional top-down approach, where communication and collaboration are often limited by hierarchical barriers.

By applying Agile principles, I have witnessed firsthand the power of collaboration. Working in the anime industry, where creativity and innovation are paramount, collaboration has become our cornerstone. Team members, regardless of their positions, contribute ideas and feedback, creating a rich, diverse pool of insights. This inclusive approach not only sparks creativity but also drives better decision-making.

Continuous Improvement and Learning
The concept of continuous improvement, or Kaizen, is central to Agile. Teams regularly reflect on their performance and identify areas for improvement. This iterative process ensures that the organization evolves and adapts to changing circumstances, maintaining a competitive edge.

John C. Maxwell, in his book "The 360 Degree Leader," emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement. He writes, “Leaders who are growth-oriented are constantly improving themselves and their teams.” This resonates deeply with Agile’s focus on iterative progress. By regularly assessing and refining our processes, my team and I ensure that we are always moving forward, always innovating.

Empowering Individuals
Agile principles also focus on empowering individuals. Trusting team members and giving them the autonomy to make decisions encourages a sense of ownership and accountability. This empowerment is critical for fostering an innovative mindset.

In many traditional settings, middle management often feels stuck, with limited influence and autonomy. However, by adopting Agile practices, I have experienced a shift. Empowering my team to take ownership of their projects and make decisions has not only boosted their confidence but also unlocked their creative potential. This empowerment leads to a more motivated, innovative, and productive team.

Building Resilience
Being “tough like leather” doesn’t mean merely enduring hardships; it also means building resilience. Agile practices foster resilience by encouraging teams to embrace change, learn from failures, and continuously adapt. This resilience is essential in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing business landscape.

In the anime industry, where trends and audience preferences can shift rapidly, resilience is key. Agile methodologies have equipped my team with the tools to quickly pivot and adapt to new challenges, ensuring that we remain relevant and innovative.

Conclusion
Disrupting the traditional narrative of toughness and endurance, Agile principles offer a more dynamic, collaborative, and empowering approach to professional life. By embracing change, fostering collaboration, focusing on continuous improvement, empowering individuals, and building resilience, Agile methodologies can transform organizations and cultivate an innovative mindset.

As my grandmother’s wisdom continues to guide me, I realize that being “tough like leather” is not just about enduring hardships but also about being adaptable, collaborative, and continuously striving for improvement. In the words of John C. Maxwell, “Leaders who are growth-oriented are constantly improving themselves and their teams.” By integrating Agile principles into our daily interactions and practices, we can not only navigate the challenges of our careers but also find joy and fulfillment in the process.

Adopting Agile principles is not just about improving processes; it’s about transforming the way we think, work, and innovate. It’s about being tough like leather but well put together, ready to face the challenges and opportunities of the future with resilience, adaptability, and a relentless drive for improvement.