The Professional Crush

Have you ever had a "professional crush"?

Not the romantic kind. And certainly not the kind you would ever act on.

A professional crush occurs when you work for (or with) a super smart, high-integrity, fearless but fair, exceptional leader. The one who always makes the play that's best for the team or the company - not just best for themselves (or their favorite employees). The one who sees right through and isn't at all moved by brown-nosers. The one who isn't intimidated by others who are as smart or smarter than them. The one who rarely makes mistakes, but when they do, they take accountability for them.

Many times these people are intimidating to others because of their integrity and strength of character.

Because it's not romantic in nature, a professional crush isn't limited to bosses (or co-workers) of the opposite sex.

These are role models of the highest order. The professional crush may seem to border on idolizing someone or putting them on a pedestal, but because it's based on true, proven character it's actually just great admiration.

I have had the good fortune to experience many professional crushes (and been the recipient of a few, as well).

Here's to you, exceptional bosses and co-workers! You know who you are.