In a world obsessed with titles, deadlines and success metrics, it’s easy to lose sight of who we are and why we work. After 25 years as a lawyer, mentor and leader, I’ve seen how small acts of courage, kindness and self-belief can be far more “legendary” than any promotion. Here are five lessons I’ve learned along the way – all inspired by the legends, lessons and light-bulb moments shared in my book.
1. Check your ego at the door
Back in 1985, Quincy Jones taped these exact words to the door of the We Are the World recording studio before inviting forty-six global superstars to sing for charity. It’s a reminder that collaboration is the real magic behind success.
In any workplace, egos cloud judgment, block learning and fracture teams. True leadership comes from humility: knowing when to listen, when to step back and when to lift others up.
2. Be a Marilyn, not a Queen Bee
We’ve all encountered women who pull up the ladder instead of holding out a hand. But we need more Marilyn Monroes… women who open doors for others, not because they want to be thanked or for a reciprocal favour, but simply because they can.
Marilyn personally fought for jazz icon Ella Fitzgerald to perform at a segregated LA club in 1955, showing how allyship changes history. In your own career, look for ways to sponsor talent, not just mentor it. Your influence could alter someone’s entire trajectory.
3. Work and network
For years, I believed hard work alone would get me noticed. I was wrong.
Networking isn’t self-promotion: it’s relationship building. It’s about finding allies, advocates and opportunities that you can’t create from behind your desk. The people who rise aren’t always the loudest; they’re the ones who connect with purpose and authenticity. If you feel awkward “selling yourself,” reframe it as sharing your story and allowing others to get to know you better – because nobody else can tell it quite like you.
4. Follow the rainbow, not the concrete road
Inspired by The Wizard of Oz, a chapter in my book explores how corporate life can drain our Technicolor if we’re not careful. Toxic environments, bad bosses or burnout can leave even the brightest employees walking a grey, lifeless path.
To get your colour vibes back, you need to reconnect with what fuels you: creativity, purpose, or simply joy. Keep a personal “highlight reel” of moments you’re proud of and surround yourself with cheerleaders who remind you of your light when work or those within it, try to dim it.
5. The show must go on
Every performer knows the fear before stepping into the spotlight, but they do it anyway. That’s the essence of resilience.
Insecurity and fear are part of growth; it’s how you channel them that matters. Face what scares you, seek feedback, and celebrate every small win. As Freddie Mercury said: “You can be anything you want to be, just turn yourself into anything you think that you could ever be.”
In the end, being “legendary” isn’t about fame or fortune. It’s about integrity, empathy and courage: living your career in full colour, not grayscale.
