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Adi Adair
Chief Financial Officer
American Dream

What leadership traits have served you well? And on the flip side, what have you learned that tends to hold women leaders back?

I feel that leadership traits that have served me well are resilience, persistence, and strength. There have been moments in my career where I had to overcome an obstacle or face an adversity, and without those traits of resilience, persistence, and strength I wouldn’t be where I am today. You must be able to face challenges head on. Without these traits, you will always find excuses and you will never have results.

What I have learned that tends to hold women leaders back is fear. Fear of not being “good enough,” fear of feeling inadequate in a male-dominated industry or simply, fear in general. I have never let fear drive me. If anything, I have let moments where I experienced fear inspire me to be better. If you experience fear in your career, use it as motivator. Keep going. Never give up on yourself – and you are destined to succeed.

What is one phrase you refer to when you need a pick me up or inspiration?

“Whether you think you can or you can’t, either way you are right.” This quote has always been meaningful to me because it grounds me. It reminds me how important your mindset is. If you believe you CAN, you will. If you believe you can’t, you WON’T. I always believe that I can. No matter what.

Do you mentor others or do you have a mentor that was inspirational in your life?

I do my best to mentor my team, especially those who work very closely with me on a day-to-day basis. It is very important that my staff stays motivated, inspired, and supported. I always offer an open-door policy so that my staff feels comfortable to come to me about any challenges or questions. This creates an environment where people can feel like they are truly seen, heard, and part of a team.

Earlier on in my career, I had a boss that was very strict on showing up on time, being punctual, and exemplified a true leader who “played by the rule book”  and set a true example for others by leading by example. There were many times in my career where I felt challenged by her, but that was the very thing that made me grow into the leader I am today. She was brutally honest, tough, and direct and I feel that molded my integrity and honesty to this very day.

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