First a quote: “To accept good advice is but to increase one’s own ability.” – Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
Hello and happy Monday.
In the last two weeks, I’ve spoken with three different people, each seeking advice about next steps in their careers. They were all facing significant “mid-career decisions.” Those conversations reminded me of a concept that could be helpful for all of us to consider.
Perhaps you’ll find this topic interesting, too.
Do you have a P-BoD?
Publicly traded companies are required by law to have a board of directors. Board members are selected for their expertise, experience, and wisdom. They provide oversight, guidance, and strategic advice to a company’s leadership team.
Their role is crucial to the long-term health and success of the organization, helping leaders navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and stay aligned with the company’s mission and values.
My question for you:
If having a strong board of directors is considered critical for public corporations, why wouldn’t it also be vital for each of us as individuals, regardless of our employment situation?
Today, I propose that everyone should have their own “Personal Board of Directors” (P-BoD)—a small, trusted group of advisors who can help guide us through life’s biggest decisions and opportunities. Just like a company, our lives and careers deserve thoughtful oversight and wise counsel.
“Surround yourself with people who are going to lift you higher.” — Oprah Winfrey
What might a Personal Board of Directors look like?
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Diverse perspectives: Seek individuals who bring different strengths, experiences, and points of view. Diversity of thought is invaluable.
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Trusted advisors: Choose people who will tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear.
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Shared values: Your board members should understand and respect your core beliefs and life priorities.
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Commitment to your growth: You want people invested in helping you become the best version of yourself going forward. They listen, they care, they’re anxious to help you grow.
As an example, my P-BoD consists of my wife Becky, (she is the chairperson 😊) a couple of former bosses, (they know my strengths and weaknesses) two former pastors, several past work associates, and a couple of good friends who have known me for years.
Importantly, all these board members are willing to tell me the truth with compassion. I know they have my best interests at heart. They care about me, my career, and my family.
We don’t have formal board meetings or financial reviews (though that would probably be valuable). They are simply people I call upon when I want to bounce ideas around or make an important life/career decision.
One of the most valuable times to lean on your P-BoD is when you’re considering major life changes, like a career move. Job changes, relocations, or starting a business are complex decisions, often filled with uncertainty and emotion.
Your P-BoD can help you sort through the facts, challenge your assumptions, offer encouragement, and sometimes point out the blind spots you can’t see yourself.
My P-BoD has been involved in all my major career decisions, and occasionally, in those everyday situations where I just need a sounding board.
A few questions your P-BoD might help you explore:
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Does this opportunity align with your values and long-term goals?
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Are you running to something better, or merely running from something uncomfortable?
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What risks should you be aware of, and how might you mitigate them?
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How might this decision impact your family, health, or personal life?
The key to using your board effectively is intentionality—knowing who you trust to help you stay on course and headed in the right direction.
A few closing thoughts to keep in mind:
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Choose your board members carefully. Not every friend or family member is qualified for this important role.
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Listen actively and be open to feedback, even when it’s uncomfortable.
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Periodically review and refresh your “board” as your life and goals evolve.
Who will you invite to serve on your Personal Board of Directors? Corporations need strong governance. I suggest we all do.
What are your thoughts on this topic? What advice would you offer readers? We would love input & experience on this topic.
How will you live, love, or lead differently, or better, this week?
Sincerely,
Bryan Yager
“Expanding Your Capacity for Success”
Additional Articles & Resources:
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Click here to read: Is it Time to Reinvent Yourself? I LinkedIn
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Click here for information on the book: Creating You & Company; Learn to Think Like the CEO of Your Own Career
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Jim Collins article: Looking Out for Number One - While Jim Collins is often recognized for formalizing the concept of a personal board of directors, the term “P-BOD” itself doesn’t have a clearly documented origin. The idea has been embraced and adopted by various professionals to suit personal and career development needs. It serves as a valuable framework for assembling a group of trusted advisors who can offer diverse perspectives, honest feedback, and strategic guidance.
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Building Career Equity by Jan Torrisi-Mokwa; Jan Torrisi-Mokwa introduced the concept within the realm of career advancement in her book Building Career Equity .
Bonus Quotes:
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“Asking for other’s guidance helps you see what you may not be able to see. It’s always important to check your ego and ask for help.” – Ken Blanchard
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“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — African Proverb
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“To accept good advice is but to increase one’s own ability.” – Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
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“Advice is like snow — the softer it falls, the longer it dwells upon, and the deeper it sinks into the mind.” — Samuel Taylor Coleridge
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“The people you surround yourself with influence your behaviors, so choose friends who have healthy habits.” — Dan Buettner
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“A fool despises good counsel, but a wise man takes it to heart.” – Confucius
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“Don’t follow any advice, no matter how good, until you feel as deeply in your spirit as you think in your mind that the counsel is wise.” – Joan Rivers
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“Fools despise wisdom and instruction.” – Soloman
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“Nothing is impossible for those who act after wise counsel and careful thought.” – Thiruvalluvar
