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Far-Out Thought Leadership: Innovating Against the Current

  • georgialeearts
  • Mar 16
  • 3 min read

Updated: Mar 16

Written by Georgia Lee Arts

March 16, 2025


In February, I had the honor of joining The Outliers Project, an innovative group that seeks to push boundaries and challenge conventional wisdom. Within this dynamic collective, I earned the title of the “far-outlier,” a fitting moniker, given my past work with the Space Force and my deep passion for forward-thinking leadership. My endorsement in thought leadership was a surprise and it was a recognition of the path I have taken, one forged in resilience, creativity, and an unyielding commitment to innovation.


Looking back, I remember what it was like to rebuild my life from the ground up and get out of the gap. I created a business from nothing, fueled by sheer determination and a vision others couldn’t always see. This journey has taught me that innovation often comes with resistance. Those who disrupt the status quo can inadvertently trigger the insecurities of others, especially in environments where traditional leadership models still dominate.


One of my greatest concerns today is the future of transitioning female veterans. Across many communities, I see a troubling trend, not only are critical services being withheld or overlooked for these women, but there is also a disturbing undercurrent of established female leaders, both civilian and veteran, working against the very innovations and leadership skills that these new members of the community bring. Instead of fostering the next generation, some women in positions of power seem to be canceling the future of progress.


This phenomenon is more than just professional competition; it’s a systemic issue that stifles potential, creativity, and the invaluable leadership that transitioning female veterans can offer. The military instills a unique set of skills, adaptability, strategic thinking, crisis management, and an unparalleled work ethic. These qualities should be leveraged, celebrated, and integrated into the civilian workforce and leadership spaces, not ignored or suppressed.


So, where do we go from here? How do we ensure that innovation and leadership thrive rather than being silenced?


  1. Recognizing the Invisible Barriers – We must acknowledge that transitioning female veterans face not only logistical and economic challenges but also cultural and systemic obstacles that prevent them from success in their communities.


  2. Building Authentic Alliances – True leadership isn’t about gatekeeping; it’s about opening doors for others. Women in leadership must actively support and uplift new voices, not view them as threats.


  3. Advocating for Change – Whether through policy, mentorship, or business practices, we need to push for tangible changes that create spaces for innovation and veteran integration.


  4. Staying Unapologetically Innovative – Being an outlier means challenging norms, even when it’s uncomfortable. It means continuing to innovate despite the pushback and recognizing that true change often comes from the margins.


As a far-out thought leader, I know that progress isn’t linear, and it certainly isn’t always welcomed. But the future belongs to those willing to push through resistance, to create despite adversity, and to lead with vision. For transitioning female veterans and all innovators who feel sidelined, the answer isn’t to conform, it’s to keep pushing forward. Because leadership isn’t about fitting in, it’s about serving others and standing out. Let’s bridge the gap between what is and what could be.


Are you a leveled-up leader who loves collaboration? Reach out and let’s innovate together!


Listen to my podcast on career and identity: Dream Journey, Breaking the Dream Barriers TM

 

 Georgia Lee Arts, is the founder of Elysian Dream® and Elysian Dream® YOUniversity. She is a seasoned career strategist and certified life coach with 30 years of combined military and civilian expertise in leadership, training, and coaching. She is a podcast host and the author of Dream Journey: Breaking the Dream Barriers.™ A Guide to Bridging Identity Gaps in Life and Career.™


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