Left to Her Own Device

Monica Plath wants her two young children to be safe. She feels the same way about yours.

Plath created Seattle-based Littlebird Connected Care after a concerning care experience for her child. The wearable tracking device, called the Littlebird Toddler Care- Tracker, is a wristband for kids that helps parents ensure that their children are safe. It even monitors sleep patterns and exercise. Plath serves as CEO at the Seattle-based company.

Plath, a Seattle-area native who holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Washington and attended executive programs at Stanford University and MIT, has authored a children’s book and worked in commercial real estate for years. She launched her startup when she couldn’t find a similar device. She has won multiple awards for her work in digital health technology.

Leadership

The most important characteristics of a good leader are vision, integrity, and empathy. Vision is the ability to foresee a better future and articulate a clear path toward it. A visionary leader doesn’t just set targets. They inspire innovation and drive change, encouraging their team to think creatively and ambitiously. Integrity is the bedrock of a leader’s credibility. It’s about consistency between words and actions, ensuring decisions are made based on ethical principles. Leaders with integrity are transparent, honest, and reliable. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, and is vital in leadership.

Overrated Traits

Perfectionism, while often praised, can be a double-edged sword in leadership. The pursuit of flawless execution and an error-free environment can create undue stress and inhibit creativity and risk-taking. Perfectionism can lead to micromanagement, stif ling team members, growth, and hindering the delegation of responsibilities. Leaders should instead strive for excellence, acknowledging that mistakes are part of the learning and growth process. A balance between high standards and realistic expectations fosters a more productive and innovative work environment.

Prominence

Women can achieve more prominent roles in their organizations by actively advocating for themselves. It’s also important for women to build a strong professional network, seek out mentors and sponsors, and take advantage of professional development opportunities.

Lessons Learned

A key lesson I learned from an inspiring woman is the importance of self-care and personal well-being. This involves setting aside time for personal development, relaxation, and hobbies. It’s crucial to maintain a healthy work-life balance, ensuring that while professional responsibilities are met, personal needs and family time are not neglected. This balance is essential for sustained success and prevents burnout.

Advice

Embrace your ambition. Pursue your goals with passion and determination. Your voice and your vision are important, and you have the power to make a significant impact.

Networking

Networking is crucial for professional growth and expanding your perspectives. It’s not limited to attending industry events or joining professional associations — networking can happen anywhere. It’s about connecting with people who share similar interests or who can offer new insights and opportunities. This could mean joining a local community group, participating in a hobby club, or attending a workshop. The key is to be open and genuine, as authentic relationships often lead to valuable connections.

Do Differently

Looking back, trusting my instincts earlier in my career would have been beneficial. Often, our gut feelings are a culmination of our experiences and knowledge, guiding us toward the right decisions. I’ve learned that it’s important to listen to that inner voice, especially when making tough decisions in business or personal relationships.

Unwind on a Weekend?

You’ll likely find me enjoying quality time with my family, whether at a local park, attending a children’s birthday party, or exploring new adventures together. I love these moments. They provide a much-needed break from the professional world and allow me to recharge and connect with my loved ones.

Autobiography Title

If I were to write an autobiography, I’d title it Grit & Grace. This title encapsulates the dual nature of balancing personal and professional life. It reflects the resilience and determination needed to face challenges head-on while maintaining grace under pressure. It’s a tribute to the strength and perseverance of anyone juggling multiple roles, even when you are sleep-deprived and running on fumes.