That's right, the best leaders are followers! May seem like a complete paradox, yet that is one of the greatest strategies and commonalities among the very best leaders.
Our world teaches us that leaders need to be self driven, powerful, in control, commanding, loud, persistent, and the list goes on. We seem to so incorrectly celebrate leaders that "WIN" at all costs. We know that leaders lead others to do what they want them to do, right? They don't follow anyone but their own will, desires and demands, right? Wrong, oh, so wrong.
When you study the very best leaders in world, you will find one common element in them all for sure, they were all led by someone else. If you survey the greatest leaders around, you will find that teach of them is able to, and willing to provide for you the name or names of the people that influenced their lives, their thinking and their success. You can call these people mentors, master/teachers, role models, yet in the end, the "leader" you are speaking to, was (and might still be) the follower.
Abraham Lincoln is credited by many as one of the greatest leaders and Presidents of all time. He notes that in his life, he was led and mentored by Henry Clay, a well known politician and leader in the United States. Even Jesus Christ had a leader he turned to every day, God the Father. He didn't act without God's directions, His wisdom, His will. Jesus is leader of the largest group ever assembled in the world, and people are following His teaching 2,000 years after His death. Yet, with all that leadership, Jesus was still a follower of God.
The examples are here to demonstrate that as a leader, you must learn and observe and model after someone. You cannot make it up on your own and just demand of others. The best leaders are following someone, and in turn, others will follow them.
Who is your leader or mentor? Who is the one you turn to for advice,
wisdom and council? Who do you know that has a road map of life and
leadership success that you want to model your life after?
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Monday, May 13, 2013
Making the RIGHT decisions
Leaders, since we are all human beings and subject to mistakes, do not always make the best decisions. Sometimes, as a person and as a leader, we can be seen as a failure due to our incorrect decisions or for taking the wrong path. I encourage you and want to share that in making decisions, the most important learning is that you make the right decision.
In stating right, I am not affirming it is correct, just the best and right decision you can make at that time. The question is, how do you know what is the right decision?
Four key factors should be considered, and when all 4 are properly met, you know that you are making the right decision, and they are:
Next, the statement or actions must be aligned with your vision. What you do, each and every day, should fulfill the mission and always upload and honor the vision. Whether it be a company, a team or your family, decisions that stand outside or contrary to the vision of the whole, will, in the end, hurt the individuals and the whole. Always ensure the vision is being met by the actions you take.
Move on, we come to council. We have discussed council previously, bottom line, your most trusted (few) advisers need to agree and support you in your decision. This again, is 2 or 3 very trusted, known peers that fully know you, the vision and your values. They hold you accountable on a daily walk in you entire life, and therefore have the credibility and wisdom to guide you in key areas.
Finally, your inner spirit. Some will call this intuition, others will call it gut, some will say "let your conscience be your guide. As a Christian, I know the Holy Spirit is that voice within each of us that helps us in those most critical moments. When we listen to our inner spirit, we do not feel guilty, we do not feel conflict. You know that empty, turning feeling inside when you know what you did is wrong, that conflict shouldn't be there if you are making the right decision.
Take your time, walk through all four steps, this is the best way to ensure that the key decisions, will be the right one.
In stating right, I am not affirming it is correct, just the best and right decision you can make at that time. The question is, how do you know what is the right decision?
Four key factors should be considered, and when all 4 are properly met, you know that you are making the right decision, and they are:
- True
- Vision
- Council
- Spirit
Next, the statement or actions must be aligned with your vision. What you do, each and every day, should fulfill the mission and always upload and honor the vision. Whether it be a company, a team or your family, decisions that stand outside or contrary to the vision of the whole, will, in the end, hurt the individuals and the whole. Always ensure the vision is being met by the actions you take.
Move on, we come to council. We have discussed council previously, bottom line, your most trusted (few) advisers need to agree and support you in your decision. This again, is 2 or 3 very trusted, known peers that fully know you, the vision and your values. They hold you accountable on a daily walk in you entire life, and therefore have the credibility and wisdom to guide you in key areas.
Finally, your inner spirit. Some will call this intuition, others will call it gut, some will say "let your conscience be your guide. As a Christian, I know the Holy Spirit is that voice within each of us that helps us in those most critical moments. When we listen to our inner spirit, we do not feel guilty, we do not feel conflict. You know that empty, turning feeling inside when you know what you did is wrong, that conflict shouldn't be there if you are making the right decision.
Take your time, walk through all four steps, this is the best way to ensure that the key decisions, will be the right one.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Establish a Council of Advisers
Every day, in all aspects of our lives, we are faced with decisions. Some of these decisions have very little impact on others, like what color socks you choose to wear. Sure, you would like them to match, yet it has no bearing on others' lives, nor on your influence as a leader. Other decisions are very important, and their impact can be spread to many and be long lasting.
Consider these examples: taking a new job, relocating, getting married, approaching an employee or client with bad news, calling a teacher with your frustration, promoting someone, how to invest your money, and the list goes on. Each of these decisions will have lasting effects, and they impact many others. As you aspire to lead a great life, and bring the best out in others, you also need to ensure you are doing your best, and this means making the best decisions.
Leaders are naturally driven to act, to make decisions, to take charge of situations, and this is also one of our greatest weaknesses. The leader that acts too quickly, or acts alone when it comes to these major decisions will ultimately find themselves learning from many mistakes.
The best decisions in life are made with the council of others. In order to have their council, you need them to be engaged and aware of the situation. This means, whether at work or at home, you need to selectively choose a management team. This team needs to:
A final thought on this topic: The concept of seeking advice and council from a trusted team is in no way abdicating your role as a leader and a decision maker. The is not about taking a vote, or reaching consensus on every decision, rather, this is about your not acting hastily to avoid critical mistakes. By the process of including advice from trusted advisers in your life, you are able to gather different views, perspectives and potential outcomes. You slow down, which is so important when making big moves, because you wait to understand the many angles and opportunities in which to consider.
For each major decision you make, seek your team, wait for their response, and then act. I promise you, the outcome will be far more fruitful then if you just "go-it" alone.
Consider these examples: taking a new job, relocating, getting married, approaching an employee or client with bad news, calling a teacher with your frustration, promoting someone, how to invest your money, and the list goes on. Each of these decisions will have lasting effects, and they impact many others. As you aspire to lead a great life, and bring the best out in others, you also need to ensure you are doing your best, and this means making the best decisions.
Leaders are naturally driven to act, to make decisions, to take charge of situations, and this is also one of our greatest weaknesses. The leader that acts too quickly, or acts alone when it comes to these major decisions will ultimately find themselves learning from many mistakes.
The best decisions in life are made with the council of others. In order to have their council, you need them to be engaged and aware of the situation. This means, whether at work or at home, you need to selectively choose a management team. This team needs to:
- Journey the path with you. They need to work along side you, or share life experience with you. You need this person to be someone that is familiar with the situation and with you.
- Be honest with you. There is nothing worse than making a decision based on incomplete information, or not truthful advice. You need to know that this group will be honest with you, nor matter how convicted you may be in your direction. They are the final safety net to help you make the best decision possible.
- Care for you. That may sound a bit warm and fuzzy for the workplace or organizational structures, yet if your most trusted team members do not truly care for you and your objectives, than they are not in a position to offer you advice.
- Be small. Advice of 2-5 is best when you are seeking council. More than a small group will create problems, yet, as you can see from the list above, you cannot really have that many close, trusted advisers.
A final thought on this topic: The concept of seeking advice and council from a trusted team is in no way abdicating your role as a leader and a decision maker. The is not about taking a vote, or reaching consensus on every decision, rather, this is about your not acting hastily to avoid critical mistakes. By the process of including advice from trusted advisers in your life, you are able to gather different views, perspectives and potential outcomes. You slow down, which is so important when making big moves, because you wait to understand the many angles and opportunities in which to consider.
For each major decision you make, seek your team, wait for their response, and then act. I promise you, the outcome will be far more fruitful then if you just "go-it" alone.
Friday, February 8, 2013
It is always personal
It is commonly accepted in the larger business world today to make decisions that are in the best interest of the business. In the end, people will make the argument that the business only exists for itself and sometimes tough decisions need to be made.
Over my 20 year career, I have seen multiple rounds of "layoffs" within small, privately held companies, and within larger, publicly traded enterprises. Even though one is more subject to the constant vibrations and emotions of Wall Street, both have goals to achieve and when they don't hit them, they look to cut costs (ie. people).
I remember a time when a pastor friend of mine talked about how the recession hit their church, and in a devastating way. They not only lost frequent attenders, they had significant losses in the amount being given each weekend. Eventually, the money was so tight that cuts had to be made, or they would no longer be able to survive as a church. I am sure you have heard many business stories that are the same, whether in a small or large organization.
The thought process to walk through to be a great leader is that you have a responsibility to those you shepherd. You have a duty to those that are ultimately left in your care. Therefore, I reject, and ask you to do the same, the phrase "it's not personal, it's just business." See, for the people being let go, this is very personal.
The drive for wealth and hitting objectives sometimes has us lose sight of the fact that people's lives are directly impacted by those decisions. I recognize that, and have spoken to the fact, that objectives need to be hit, profit needs to be made, and growth is a must. Cutting people, though, isn't simply just business, it is personal to that individual.
I was let go from a position at a time in my life where my wife was dying from cancer. We had two young boys at home and losing my job meant a loss of income and insurance. The process was personal for me and my wife. I have, unfortunately, let many people go over the years as well. It isn't any fun on either side, yet I promise you that walking away without a job is painful. Knowing that the company you worked with for years will go forward without you, is tough. Knowing that you were cut to save money, and save others' jobs, is not always easy to take, personally.
Just remember, that when you make "business" decisions, the impact is personal.
Here are five quick tips to carrying out the business task, yet doing so that keeps the person in mind.
Over my 20 year career, I have seen multiple rounds of "layoffs" within small, privately held companies, and within larger, publicly traded enterprises. Even though one is more subject to the constant vibrations and emotions of Wall Street, both have goals to achieve and when they don't hit them, they look to cut costs (ie. people).
I remember a time when a pastor friend of mine talked about how the recession hit their church, and in a devastating way. They not only lost frequent attenders, they had significant losses in the amount being given each weekend. Eventually, the money was so tight that cuts had to be made, or they would no longer be able to survive as a church. I am sure you have heard many business stories that are the same, whether in a small or large organization.
The thought process to walk through to be a great leader is that you have a responsibility to those you shepherd. You have a duty to those that are ultimately left in your care. Therefore, I reject, and ask you to do the same, the phrase "it's not personal, it's just business." See, for the people being let go, this is very personal.
The drive for wealth and hitting objectives sometimes has us lose sight of the fact that people's lives are directly impacted by those decisions. I recognize that, and have spoken to the fact, that objectives need to be hit, profit needs to be made, and growth is a must. Cutting people, though, isn't simply just business, it is personal to that individual.
I was let go from a position at a time in my life where my wife was dying from cancer. We had two young boys at home and losing my job meant a loss of income and insurance. The process was personal for me and my wife. I have, unfortunately, let many people go over the years as well. It isn't any fun on either side, yet I promise you that walking away without a job is painful. Knowing that the company you worked with for years will go forward without you, is tough. Knowing that you were cut to save money, and save others' jobs, is not always easy to take, personally.
Just remember, that when you make "business" decisions, the impact is personal.
Here are five quick tips to carrying out the business task, yet doing so that keeps the person in mind.
- Have empathy for how they will feel and the impact this has on their lives
- Speak to them, in tone and in words, as you would want to be spoken to
- I know this will make HR folks shiver, yet you need to spend ample time with them, help them know you care, how hard it is, for you to do this, and that you wish them well...don't rush them out the door
- Don't speak about other people, or other companies, or the economy, give them straight facts as to what the organization is doing and why
- Look them in the eye, shake their hand, and thank them for what they did for you, they deserve to leave with integrity
Monday, January 7, 2013
Don't buy green bananas!
You might say I am bananas for bananas, I just love them! The taste, the texture, the nutrients, all good stuff. I eat a banana every day, and have done so for years, it is just a part of who I am and my daily routine for health. I am, however, very picky about my banana, I do not like them brown, and I certainly do not want them green, I want the banana that is best for today.
When I was young I remember how so I looked forward to the times I would get to see or speak to one of the greatest men I have ever known, my grandfather. He was nearly 60 years older than I, and so wise, so each day with him was a treat. When I would ask him "how are you doing", he would almost certainly respond with "well son, I'm not buying green bananas!" Of course, with I was just a child, it was funny, yet I didn't quite know want this meant. As time passed and I was now in my twenties and he in his eighties, this interaction would still take place, and I knew his words held multiple meanings.
The obvious, this was a funny way for an aging man to know he was old. Next, he recognized that each day was a blessing, a gift, and he didn't know if tomorrow would come, so there wasn't time to let green bananas ripen. Yet bigger than that, I believe behind that humor was a real life lesson in how to lead my life, and ultimately others. Sure, tomorrow would be great and we could pick/buy more bananas, but what would I do with today?
As I recall those times and realize that nearly 15 years has passed since, that is 5,475 bananas, wow, lots of potassium for sure! Even more eye opening, that is 5,475 days that I have been given to live a life of maximum impact. Each day a gift, each day a change to make the most, to give my best, to be the yellow banana in someone's life. Simple question, what will you do with today?
When I was young I remember how so I looked forward to the times I would get to see or speak to one of the greatest men I have ever known, my grandfather. He was nearly 60 years older than I, and so wise, so each day with him was a treat. When I would ask him "how are you doing", he would almost certainly respond with "well son, I'm not buying green bananas!" Of course, with I was just a child, it was funny, yet I didn't quite know want this meant. As time passed and I was now in my twenties and he in his eighties, this interaction would still take place, and I knew his words held multiple meanings.
The obvious, this was a funny way for an aging man to know he was old. Next, he recognized that each day was a blessing, a gift, and he didn't know if tomorrow would come, so there wasn't time to let green bananas ripen. Yet bigger than that, I believe behind that humor was a real life lesson in how to lead my life, and ultimately others. Sure, tomorrow would be great and we could pick/buy more bananas, but what would I do with today?
As I recall those times and realize that nearly 15 years has passed since, that is 5,475 bananas, wow, lots of potassium for sure! Even more eye opening, that is 5,475 days that I have been given to live a life of maximum impact. Each day a gift, each day a change to make the most, to give my best, to be the yellow banana in someone's life. Simple question, what will you do with today?
Faith to sit, faith to act
There is an old saying that is a favorite of mine, it is commonly known as the serenity prayer.
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change
The courage to change the things I can
And the wisdom to know the difference
Let's take a look at what this means to you, and how the three words in italics are the words to empower you to true fulfillment as you lead your life, and others.
Serenity is peace. To be completely serene you know that what is or has occurred is not something you can change, and therefore, you have made peace with it. Imagine sitting in a beautiful park in the upper midwest, on a crisp autumn day. You are alone on a wooden bench under a shade tree, and your view is marvelous. You are overlooking a lake, with birds flying against a perfect blue sky. The backdrop is colorful, from red to orange to yellow, you see the splendor of fall. As you sit in the quiet of the moment, a sudden rain storm swells up. The clouds roll in, the wind howls, the rain pours, your perfect moment is ruined, right, well, wrong. At least wrong attitude. See, without the rain, the beauty you were viewing would not exist. You cannot stop the rain, or control the wind, so being upset only changes you, not the circumstance. Be still, be serene, accept the moment you cannot change.
The cowardly lion wanted courage. He wanted to stand up and fight and not be afraid. He knew that to get anywhere of value, he was going to have to do the work, he was going to need to fight, and so must you. Each day you are faced with challenges and opportunities to lead, to grow, to build upon the vision and make an impact for others. Will you have the courage to make that difference. If you do, great things will happen. If you don't, they won't. There are many things in your life you can change, like your attitude. Do you smile and greet people with enthusiasm? Do you choose to accept the rain storm with peace? Do you look at challenges as an opportunity to make a difference? Let's go back to the lion, if you remember, he stands up for Dorothy, he decides to take action and go along for the journey to Oz. In actuality, as the story shows, his ability to act is courage. Always expecting the results you want is lacking wisdom.
And that brings us to the all important wisdom, knowledge that is beyond ourselves. Wisdom is more than just intelligence, more than reading books or knowing the right thing to do. Wisdom is understanding, it is seeing a bigger picture. Wisdom in the best form is recognition that something is worth the fight, it is something you will try, and something that make a noble impact to others. If you meet the goal or not is irrelevant to the fight. Have the courage to go for it when you need to, to sit when you must, and the faith so that you can be shown the difference between the two.
Make a daily, and lasting impact
Most people, when truthfully speaking, will not place money as their number one reason for working at a place or business. Studies show that other factors rise much higher, including:
So, then, why do so many people leave their jobs, or remain in jobs they are unhappy? Why is our divorce rate at 50%? Why is it that we tend to not feel appreciated or valued, and we constantly look for something else? I am going to answer these questions by stating it is in YOUR hands, not someone else. Stop looking for others to fix the problem and recognize that you have a path to fulfill, and it is in your power to do so.
There have been many discussions on levels of leaders, and those speak more to organizational qualities, or development qualities. I want to speak to your ultimate fulfillment in what you do, where you are in your life, and the constant building required from one stage to the next. The key is to recognize that everyone is at different stages in their lives, so the amount of time to build from one stage to the next is unique. Leadership, and living life, is in an individual process, and your pace will be specific to you. This entire book is dedicated to making a maximum impact and sustaining maximum growth.
I have broken down the path to daily and long term leadership into the following stages:
Stage 1: Accept that you are a leader (everyone influences someone)
Stage 2: Do the work for the benefit of others (you don't lead yourself)
Stage 3: Make a positive impact, today, and every day (do the work)
Stage 4: Measure the fruit produced and prepare for the next harvest (evaluation)
Stage 5: Invest in others (give back by mentoring)
As you move up, you aren't neglecting the previous stage, just building upon each stage to continue your growth and your impact.
- Being challenged as an individual
- Bringing value to others
- Opportunities to be promoted, ie, grow, expand responsibility or take on new things
So, then, why do so many people leave their jobs, or remain in jobs they are unhappy? Why is our divorce rate at 50%? Why is it that we tend to not feel appreciated or valued, and we constantly look for something else? I am going to answer these questions by stating it is in YOUR hands, not someone else. Stop looking for others to fix the problem and recognize that you have a path to fulfill, and it is in your power to do so.
There have been many discussions on levels of leaders, and those speak more to organizational qualities, or development qualities. I want to speak to your ultimate fulfillment in what you do, where you are in your life, and the constant building required from one stage to the next. The key is to recognize that everyone is at different stages in their lives, so the amount of time to build from one stage to the next is unique. Leadership, and living life, is in an individual process, and your pace will be specific to you. This entire book is dedicated to making a maximum impact and sustaining maximum growth.
I have broken down the path to daily and long term leadership into the following stages:
Stage 1: Accept that you are a leader (everyone influences someone)
Stage 2: Do the work for the benefit of others (you don't lead yourself)
Stage 3: Make a positive impact, today, and every day (do the work)
Stage 4: Measure the fruit produced and prepare for the next harvest (evaluation)
Stage 5: Invest in others (give back by mentoring)
As you move up, you aren't neglecting the previous stage, just building upon each stage to continue your growth and your impact.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Don't get trapped in the rat race!
Getting caught up in the daily "rat race", or the grinding details of the work to do can leave one in an emotionally down state. The effect of seeing all the work to do, the failures made, the errors occurring, or even the progress left ahead can cripple you. In the end, your goals will not be accomplished, no one is being led and the outcome is disaster.
In order to avoid this scenario, it is important to recognize the symptoms that are a result of not remaining focused on leading, on growth and on the broader vision.
Key areas of concern are:
Start first with your time, manage it, don't let it manage you. There will always be interruptions, yet don't let them control what you do and when. Respond to the highest priority item on YOUR list and address it first. Someone else may have an item of high importance, yet you need to decide what is your highest priority in the scope of the overall vision.
Next, take a look at your goals and the methodology you are using to accomplishing them, including other people. You may need to adjust your (and their) expectations, and possibly eliminate or change your vision, product or people. Leaving things the way they are will only leave the symptoms as they are, and ultimately, progress will not be made.
Next step is to plan breaks into your day and week. Allow down time, time to think, time to eat, relax and dream. You need to acknowledge and accept that this is still work, yes, taking a break, thinking strategically and preparing for the next big task IS work. This all allows you to be your best in each moment, which is the next point.
When you are working on something, sitting in a meeting, or speaking with a friend or co-worker, you need to be fully engaged in that moment. Multitasking has received improper credit to represent people capable of doing a lot of things at one time. Consider this from now on, if you are doing more than one thing at a time, you are now doing 2 things poorly. Be where you are, period. Fully engage and emotionally connect to the moment, nothing else.
You will find that with a few simple adjustments in priority, time management, planning and engagement of your mind, you will see the right things are being done, and done more accurately and more efficiently.
In order to avoid this scenario, it is important to recognize the symptoms that are a result of not remaining focused on leading, on growth and on the broader vision.
Key areas of concern are:
- You only work on issues and problems
- You never accomplish your daily agenda priority items
- Your afternoons are filled with stress, chaos and upset people
- You don't take breaks, eat lunch or have time for fun
- You can't sleep 7 straight hours without awakening because you are worried about work
Start first with your time, manage it, don't let it manage you. There will always be interruptions, yet don't let them control what you do and when. Respond to the highest priority item on YOUR list and address it first. Someone else may have an item of high importance, yet you need to decide what is your highest priority in the scope of the overall vision.
Next, take a look at your goals and the methodology you are using to accomplishing them, including other people. You may need to adjust your (and their) expectations, and possibly eliminate or change your vision, product or people. Leaving things the way they are will only leave the symptoms as they are, and ultimately, progress will not be made.
Next step is to plan breaks into your day and week. Allow down time, time to think, time to eat, relax and dream. You need to acknowledge and accept that this is still work, yes, taking a break, thinking strategically and preparing for the next big task IS work. This all allows you to be your best in each moment, which is the next point.
When you are working on something, sitting in a meeting, or speaking with a friend or co-worker, you need to be fully engaged in that moment. Multitasking has received improper credit to represent people capable of doing a lot of things at one time. Consider this from now on, if you are doing more than one thing at a time, you are now doing 2 things poorly. Be where you are, period. Fully engage and emotionally connect to the moment, nothing else.
You will find that with a few simple adjustments in priority, time management, planning and engagement of your mind, you will see the right things are being done, and done more accurately and more efficiently.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Perception is NOT reality
There is an old saying that perception is reality. I would like to take some time to unveil the truth behind what perception is. Perception is what someone believes something to be, and therefore, to them it becomes their reality. That does NOT mean it is the actual reality, or the truth, yet it does provide for an obstacle in leading and accomplishing progress.
The reality is that a leaders needs to be able to lead, down and up, across and through and the perception of others can hinder your leadership. The key point, however, is that to be successful as a leader, your vision, your methodology, your the ability to do the right thing, to remain focused on the larger goal and always have others' interests in mind is what makes you successful. Trying to correct every misconception (or lack of reality) for each person is not feasible.
There is always going to be someone, somewhere, that perceives you not as your really are. There is always someone that will bring you down, that says you aren't able or equipped. There is always someone that will find fault in your work, and potentially personalize their message to be about you.
This is what I call the perceptions gap. This is the difference between reality and their perceived reality.
The caution here, do not fall into the trap. Here are the things to do to avoid reacting, or worse, having your self worth be based on the opinion of others and simply their perception of your performance.
Make sure that you surround yourself with trusted leaders that give you honest feedback. Have people that will be honest about your work ethic, about your vision, about who you are and what you do. This can be family, friends, co workers, peers, bosses, anyone. The quantity should be between 2-5 people, remember these are people you will allow in to the deepest part of your life.
Always reflect and be honest with yourself. You know in your gut when you are doing your best, or not. That deep part inside that says the direction is failing, means it probably is. The opinion of your trusted advisers does matter, yet you know yourself the best.
Set goals that meet up with your vision and objectives. I realize that many times in the workplace those are set for us, and we can't always change ours. Saying that, are you accomplishing what is set before you. Regardless of the many critics out there, if you are in alignment with your (or your set goals) then press ahead.
Communicate with others as much as possible. Sharing the truth, the reality of what is occurring helps to eliminate the rumors and the perception gap. Spend time sharing what is really happening, how it meets the goals and ultimately the vision. By consistently communicating (see post on communication) you inform the reality and ultimately, change the perception.
Your goal, is not to meet their perception, it is to influence it, and by doing so you close the gap and better align them to reality.
The reality is that a leaders needs to be able to lead, down and up, across and through and the perception of others can hinder your leadership. The key point, however, is that to be successful as a leader, your vision, your methodology, your the ability to do the right thing, to remain focused on the larger goal and always have others' interests in mind is what makes you successful. Trying to correct every misconception (or lack of reality) for each person is not feasible.
There is always going to be someone, somewhere, that perceives you not as your really are. There is always someone that will bring you down, that says you aren't able or equipped. There is always someone that will find fault in your work, and potentially personalize their message to be about you.
This is what I call the perceptions gap. This is the difference between reality and their perceived reality.
The caution here, do not fall into the trap. Here are the things to do to avoid reacting, or worse, having your self worth be based on the opinion of others and simply their perception of your performance.
Make sure that you surround yourself with trusted leaders that give you honest feedback. Have people that will be honest about your work ethic, about your vision, about who you are and what you do. This can be family, friends, co workers, peers, bosses, anyone. The quantity should be between 2-5 people, remember these are people you will allow in to the deepest part of your life.
Always reflect and be honest with yourself. You know in your gut when you are doing your best, or not. That deep part inside that says the direction is failing, means it probably is. The opinion of your trusted advisers does matter, yet you know yourself the best.
Set goals that meet up with your vision and objectives. I realize that many times in the workplace those are set for us, and we can't always change ours. Saying that, are you accomplishing what is set before you. Regardless of the many critics out there, if you are in alignment with your (or your set goals) then press ahead.
Communicate with others as much as possible. Sharing the truth, the reality of what is occurring helps to eliminate the rumors and the perception gap. Spend time sharing what is really happening, how it meets the goals and ultimately the vision. By consistently communicating (see post on communication) you inform the reality and ultimately, change the perception.
Your goal, is not to meet their perception, it is to influence it, and by doing so you close the gap and better align them to reality.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
The winning ticket
Have you ever played the lottery? Have you, or have you known someone, that won the lottery? Not just a small amount, but that life changing, oh my, this is going to be crazy amount of money. Have you ever thought about what you would do if you won a million dollars? Well, as I write this there is a current jackpot worth over 450 million dollars to a single winner. Wow, what could you do with 450 million dollars?
Everyone of us has a list, right. We would give some away, we would pay down our debt, we would set up our families, we would buy a few nice things, travel and live on the rest. No worries, life is set and we could live where we want and do what we want, forever.
The real question is, why are you playing the lottery in the first place? What is it about your life, the direction you have and your purpose that you can't build upon? What makes you hunger for so much money that you are willing to give away what you do have for this remote chance of getting more. We all hear the odds of winning big are worse than being struck by lightening. How many people do you know that have been struck by lightening?
With the easy questions out of the way, let's get to the meat of the matter. How many people do you know that are struggling with their purpose? How many days do you wake up not knowing how you will make it through? How many of you have or know someone who has cancer? How many of you have kids, or have employees that work for you, or have siblings that count on you?
See, the real test of our character as a leader is when we stand up and face the real challenges in life. Leading isn't about position, it is about influence. How can you help others today? How can you be an example of how to appreciate what you have and can control, and then build upon that to benefit others?
Start today, first, by not playing the lottery. Secondly, invest your time in what skills you have, and where you currently are. Whether it is your family, your co-workers, your family or friends, you have opportunities every day to win big. The people in your life count on you, you are gifted and prepared for exactly what they need. Dig deep, find the leader in you, the one that lights the path for others, that keeps the focus on things that matter. The lottery, it is just a game that you really can't win. Leading others to heights they couldn't achieve without you, that is the real winning ticket!
Everyone of us has a list, right. We would give some away, we would pay down our debt, we would set up our families, we would buy a few nice things, travel and live on the rest. No worries, life is set and we could live where we want and do what we want, forever.
The real question is, why are you playing the lottery in the first place? What is it about your life, the direction you have and your purpose that you can't build upon? What makes you hunger for so much money that you are willing to give away what you do have for this remote chance of getting more. We all hear the odds of winning big are worse than being struck by lightening. How many people do you know that have been struck by lightening?
With the easy questions out of the way, let's get to the meat of the matter. How many people do you know that are struggling with their purpose? How many days do you wake up not knowing how you will make it through? How many of you have or know someone who has cancer? How many of you have kids, or have employees that work for you, or have siblings that count on you?
See, the real test of our character as a leader is when we stand up and face the real challenges in life. Leading isn't about position, it is about influence. How can you help others today? How can you be an example of how to appreciate what you have and can control, and then build upon that to benefit others?
Start today, first, by not playing the lottery. Secondly, invest your time in what skills you have, and where you currently are. Whether it is your family, your co-workers, your family or friends, you have opportunities every day to win big. The people in your life count on you, you are gifted and prepared for exactly what they need. Dig deep, find the leader in you, the one that lights the path for others, that keeps the focus on things that matter. The lottery, it is just a game that you really can't win. Leading others to heights they couldn't achieve without you, that is the real winning ticket!
Friday, October 26, 2012
Blooming fruit again
Sometimes as a leader I have been so caught up with strategy, planning, execution and our progress that I don't always take time to pause, reflect and realign for improvement. Sometimes, when we don't take the time to do those important elements of leadership, situations bring us to that point where we have nothing but time, stillness and possibly even void.
One of the most calming and reassuring quotes from scripture is "Be still and know I am God". This points directly to the importance of pause and reflection. It reminds us that many things are beyond our control and our reach, and that in the stillness we find many things.
I remember a time when I had spent nearly 3 years working on a new business strategy within a larger company. We hired people, we pushed the new brand, we invested countless hours and resources to sell our new solutions. While progress was made, many circumstances resulted in ultimately the business being shut down. Upon finding out that decision, it was very difficult to face my staff, and also difficult to even know what to do. My time was focused on the future and growth, and now, I had nothing to do but begin to shut things down.
When as a leader you find yourself with a failed business strategy, or a lack of direction, or a time where you are not bearing fruit, you need to be still. You need to use this time to reflect on where you have been and what you have learned. You need to also be completely still, just allowing this time to prepare you for the new season of growth coming ahead.
Each winter in the north the trees, the vines and fruit bearing plants go dormant, they do so and use the time to prepare for the upcoming spring. Each year, they return stronger, bigger, with new blooms and growth and bearing even more fruit than they did previously. Make sure that in your winter, in the stillness you let the time and stillness work, and ultimately prepare you. Use the reflection and preparation for the spring time ahead, and even when you are anxious, don't rush spring, it will come when you are ready to bloom again.
One of the most calming and reassuring quotes from scripture is "Be still and know I am God". This points directly to the importance of pause and reflection. It reminds us that many things are beyond our control and our reach, and that in the stillness we find many things.
I remember a time when I had spent nearly 3 years working on a new business strategy within a larger company. We hired people, we pushed the new brand, we invested countless hours and resources to sell our new solutions. While progress was made, many circumstances resulted in ultimately the business being shut down. Upon finding out that decision, it was very difficult to face my staff, and also difficult to even know what to do. My time was focused on the future and growth, and now, I had nothing to do but begin to shut things down.
When as a leader you find yourself with a failed business strategy, or a lack of direction, or a time where you are not bearing fruit, you need to be still. You need to use this time to reflect on where you have been and what you have learned. You need to also be completely still, just allowing this time to prepare you for the new season of growth coming ahead.
Each winter in the north the trees, the vines and fruit bearing plants go dormant, they do so and use the time to prepare for the upcoming spring. Each year, they return stronger, bigger, with new blooms and growth and bearing even more fruit than they did previously. Make sure that in your winter, in the stillness you let the time and stillness work, and ultimately prepare you. Use the reflection and preparation for the spring time ahead, and even when you are anxious, don't rush spring, it will come when you are ready to bloom again.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Making mistakes
As we have said, it is important for a leader to remain strong in your vision and consistent in your direction. There will be times, however, that in hindsight it will be obvious to all, or to most, that the leader was wrong. Maybe it was it was you said. Or maybe, more than likely, it could have been in how you communicated or how you made someone feel based on your remarks, tone or facial expression. It also may just be that the facts show that the decision or action taken was incorrect or in someway flawed.
What do you do when you are wrong, and know it? Let's look at this from three perspectives, and we will start out with common myths.
Myth one: Leaders are always right, and they aren't leaders if they make mistakes.
Myth two: Leaders show weakness when they say they were wrong.
Myth three: People don't trust you if you admit your wrong.
Myth one: Leaders are always right, and they aren't leaders if they make mistakes:
We all know in our hearts that no one is perfect and no leader is either for that matter. Sometimes, however, our society looks and analyzes our leaders, our politicians, coaches, pastors and business executives and when they are wrong, they want them fired. When their decisions don't work, get rid of them. When the team loses, they don't know how to coach. Today's media and the culture of America that demands everything and everything now is tough on leaders. The bottom line is that leaders don't always get it right. Mistakes are made, the key is, what do you do when you make them?
Myth two: Leaders show weakness when they say they were wrong.
Maybe you feel you will be perceived as weak if you say you are wrong. Maybe you just have too much pride to admit to failure. Maybe you aren't sure if they will still follow you if you are seen as incorrect, ultimately making you weak. Whatever your reason, you are wrong, and you need to admit it:)
The reality is that people perceive you from their own eyes and with their own lens. If you make mistakes and they know, and they know you know it, but you stand firm without acknowledgement of the mistake, they will see you as prideful. You will become the unapproachable leader. You actually become more weak when they realize that you don't see the truth. The truth is, all people make mistakes, including leaders, and admitting you did is important.
Myth three: People don't trust you if you admit your wrong.
This is actually the most important myth to discover and revoke. You want their trust, then you need to admit you were wrong. People don't trust people that are prideful and oblivious of the facts. You will gain immediate respect when you say, I was wrong. More importantly, making a mistake means you need to do more than just say I was wrong, you need to apologize. You need to amend the wrong and that is how the trust is built.
Your apology should be:
What do you do when you are wrong, and know it? Let's look at this from three perspectives, and we will start out with common myths.
Myth one: Leaders are always right, and they aren't leaders if they make mistakes.
Myth two: Leaders show weakness when they say they were wrong.
Myth three: People don't trust you if you admit your wrong.
Myth one: Leaders are always right, and they aren't leaders if they make mistakes:
We all know in our hearts that no one is perfect and no leader is either for that matter. Sometimes, however, our society looks and analyzes our leaders, our politicians, coaches, pastors and business executives and when they are wrong, they want them fired. When their decisions don't work, get rid of them. When the team loses, they don't know how to coach. Today's media and the culture of America that demands everything and everything now is tough on leaders. The bottom line is that leaders don't always get it right. Mistakes are made, the key is, what do you do when you make them?
Myth two: Leaders show weakness when they say they were wrong.
Maybe you feel you will be perceived as weak if you say you are wrong. Maybe you just have too much pride to admit to failure. Maybe you aren't sure if they will still follow you if you are seen as incorrect, ultimately making you weak. Whatever your reason, you are wrong, and you need to admit it:)
The reality is that people perceive you from their own eyes and with their own lens. If you make mistakes and they know, and they know you know it, but you stand firm without acknowledgement of the mistake, they will see you as prideful. You will become the unapproachable leader. You actually become more weak when they realize that you don't see the truth. The truth is, all people make mistakes, including leaders, and admitting you did is important.
Myth three: People don't trust you if you admit your wrong.
This is actually the most important myth to discover and revoke. You want their trust, then you need to admit you were wrong. People don't trust people that are prideful and oblivious of the facts. You will gain immediate respect when you say, I was wrong. More importantly, making a mistake means you need to do more than just say I was wrong, you need to apologize. You need to amend the wrong and that is how the trust is built.
Your apology should be:
- In person (if at all possible). No text messages or emails, if you can't do it in person, do it over the phone. Talk to the person so they can see and hear what and how you are saying it.
- Sincere. Let them know, in voice inflection, eyes, your choice of words, you know you were wrong and you are sorry.
- A catalyst for the future. You need them to follow you, if you want them to trust you, learn from your mistake and share that learning. Let them know you have considered the outcomes and impact and are making changes to ensure the future is better as a result.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Looks like work
A common myth of making it to the top of leadership is that you don't work, others do it all. If you study leaders and what makes them great is that what they do looks like work, why, because it is. They may not be running machines, answering phones or teaching class, but believe that what they do is work.
Take a principal, they lead the school yet do not typically do any teaching. My father was a principal for nearly 15 years. Most of the students, parents and teachers that I still see from that time frame only remember him as their principal. For the 15 years prior to that time, however, he was a teacher and a coach. The days were spent with hands on instruction, guidance, running plays, reviewing film, grading papers and ensuring the students received the knowledge he was entrusted to provide. As principal, however, many onlookers may just see a man that sits in meetings, that is in his office pushing papers, working on a computer or traveling to seminars. The reality, as we all know, is that his role was to lead.
The work of a leader does look different than most of the work done by their followers. This work, may entail more strategic thinking downtime, dealing with personnel one-on-one, moving from one person or task quickly to another, and may include more meetings. A day in a life of a leader, though, still consists of work that requires work ethic, integrity in thinking and action, and ultimately setting and keeping the course for all of those "doing" the detailed work.
After nearly 20 years of being in leadership roles, I found myself and other leaders in the office doing traditional work less than those that I lead. What I also find true is that the stress level and "mind thought time" is far greater. The mind thought time is those moments where a leader dreams, creates, runs thoughts and ideas and plans through their mind. This is work, and how do you know. A leader has a focused look, spends time on it, and uses it to formulate strategy and actions for the team. This time may look like day dreaming, I say...it looks like work.
Take a principal, they lead the school yet do not typically do any teaching. My father was a principal for nearly 15 years. Most of the students, parents and teachers that I still see from that time frame only remember him as their principal. For the 15 years prior to that time, however, he was a teacher and a coach. The days were spent with hands on instruction, guidance, running plays, reviewing film, grading papers and ensuring the students received the knowledge he was entrusted to provide. As principal, however, many onlookers may just see a man that sits in meetings, that is in his office pushing papers, working on a computer or traveling to seminars. The reality, as we all know, is that his role was to lead.
The work of a leader does look different than most of the work done by their followers. This work, may entail more strategic thinking downtime, dealing with personnel one-on-one, moving from one person or task quickly to another, and may include more meetings. A day in a life of a leader, though, still consists of work that requires work ethic, integrity in thinking and action, and ultimately setting and keeping the course for all of those "doing" the detailed work.
After nearly 20 years of being in leadership roles, I found myself and other leaders in the office doing traditional work less than those that I lead. What I also find true is that the stress level and "mind thought time" is far greater. The mind thought time is those moments where a leader dreams, creates, runs thoughts and ideas and plans through their mind. This is work, and how do you know. A leader has a focused look, spends time on it, and uses it to formulate strategy and actions for the team. This time may look like day dreaming, I say...it looks like work.
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Resolute
A strong leader is willing to change their mind, yet they are not easily pursuaded by every group, idea or discontented followers. In no way am I inferring that input and collaboration are not important, they are. Input and feedback should always be rendered and given time to be considered prior to moving ahead. Saying that, however, followers want and need direction that is consistent and they need to be affirmed by the leader that the course is solid and the destination is clear.
A constant change or lack or consistency will ultimately lead to a lack of followers and a failed vision. I have always likened consistent direction from a leader that is combined with room for individual decision making to be that similar to planning a trip. Imagine that I told you I wanted to take a vacation and travel by car from Chicago Illinois to Orlando Florida and I wanted to arrive in less than 3 days. I am going to allow you to plan the route, stops, food, stays and so forth and will provide $1000 to the budget to spend on all related expenses to getting us there.
That is clear and direction communication and I have also allowed room for you to be creative, to make decisions and to act upon them. If you come back to me and give me all the reasons why Florida is not a good way to go, or that maybe I should fly there to save time, I can listen to that, but in the end, if my destination is Orlando and I want to drive, those are not negotiable. The rest is in your control and stays within the decision I have made.
Now take this to your world. When you lead others at home, or in business you need to ensure they receive clear information and once the decision is made you stick with that direction. The other key is that once movement is in place, don't get caught up in the details. As in my vacation example, since I didn't specify what roads to take or where to stop, I shouldn't get involved in those details as the leader. Your job is to monitor that the directive is carried out and you need to move on to the next idea.
That is clear and direction communication and I have also allowed room for you to be creative, to make decisions and to act upon them. If you come back to me and give me all the reasons why Florida is not a good way to go, or that maybe I should fly there to save time, I can listen to that, but in the end, if my destination is Orlando and I want to drive, those are not negotiable. The rest is in your control and stays within the decision I have made.
Now take this to your world. When you lead others at home, or in business you need to ensure they receive clear information and once the decision is made you stick with that direction. The other key is that once movement is in place, don't get caught up in the details. As in my vacation example, since I didn't specify what roads to take or where to stop, I shouldn't get involved in those details as the leader. Your job is to monitor that the directive is carried out and you need to move on to the next idea.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
What is leadership?
If you were to ask 100 people the question, "what is leadership", you would more than likely receive 100 different answers. I would also propose that many of them would be surrounded by theme of directing, managing or being someone that "gets things done". The online dictionary at reference.com says, a leader is "a person who guides or directs a group". Websters says, "the office or position of a leader, capacity to lead, the act or an instance of leading."
I heard a definition this morning on the radio that was from Dwight D. Eisenhower, he said, "A leader is someone that takes all the blame when things go wrong, and finds someone else to give the credit to when things go right." Interesting thought. This is also similar to what Jim Collins describes in his book Good to Great, when he mentions "...the best leaders look in the mirror when things go wrong and they look outside the window when they go right..."
From these two individuals, who lived their adult lives nearly 40 years apart, the definition from them is a bit different then our originals.
The dictionary definitions, which I believe are nearly the common thoughts held about leadership in our society, is that it is about position, or ability or about directing people. I am not saying those are false, just that they might not be entirely accurate and encompassing of what true leadership is.
When we hold leaders to only specific positions, or if we only think their role is to direct our guide, then we start to reveal why our nation and our world is starving for real leaders. Leadership is not about position or power alone. It isn't just about vision or guidance alone. It isn't just about communication alone. Even though all of those are vitally important for any leader to possess, leadership is open to all. There are so many opportunities to lead in our lives, daily, that maybe the word courage should be used in our definition.
Here is our working definition. Anytime, anyone, is in a position to influence the actions of another person, and they have the courage to do so, that is leadership. That's it. It is that simple.
Don't lose sight of the little moments, with family, your co-workers, your friends, and those you see as you experience life. There are constant moments where you can say or do something that impacts those around you, and in that moment, and forever that they remember and use those teachings, you have executed leadership for the betterment of another.
Go ahead, get out there and lead!
I heard a definition this morning on the radio that was from Dwight D. Eisenhower, he said, "A leader is someone that takes all the blame when things go wrong, and finds someone else to give the credit to when things go right." Interesting thought. This is also similar to what Jim Collins describes in his book Good to Great, when he mentions "...the best leaders look in the mirror when things go wrong and they look outside the window when they go right..."
From these two individuals, who lived their adult lives nearly 40 years apart, the definition from them is a bit different then our originals.
The dictionary definitions, which I believe are nearly the common thoughts held about leadership in our society, is that it is about position, or ability or about directing people. I am not saying those are false, just that they might not be entirely accurate and encompassing of what true leadership is.
When we hold leaders to only specific positions, or if we only think their role is to direct our guide, then we start to reveal why our nation and our world is starving for real leaders. Leadership is not about position or power alone. It isn't just about vision or guidance alone. It isn't just about communication alone. Even though all of those are vitally important for any leader to possess, leadership is open to all. There are so many opportunities to lead in our lives, daily, that maybe the word courage should be used in our definition.
Here is our working definition. Anytime, anyone, is in a position to influence the actions of another person, and they have the courage to do so, that is leadership. That's it. It is that simple.
Don't lose sight of the little moments, with family, your co-workers, your friends, and those you see as you experience life. There are constant moments where you can say or do something that impacts those around you, and in that moment, and forever that they remember and use those teachings, you have executed leadership for the betterment of another.
Go ahead, get out there and lead!
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
The Art of Intentional Dialogue
Yes, communication is an art. When done correctly, it takes on an art form all its own. We all know people that like to talk, (I have been mentioned in those lists) and we all know people that can write, or speak, and even can spin great ideas. Yet, to get the message across and ensure that action is taken in the proper direction, the best leaders must communicate as if creating art.
First, you need to be aware of your subject. As a painter, you must know who you are painting, their age, gender, profession and intentions for the painting.
Second, you must know the set, including lighting, background and props.
Third, when creating a painting, the frame, colors used, and the canvas along with how and where the painting will be displayed are factors you must take into consderation.
Being an effective leader means finding a better way to communicate. This art form is one that must be continually perfected and adjusted. All of the same aspects as the painter need to be considered:
The final thought on this, the right conversation at the wrong time is the wrong conversation. Even the best modern painting will not appeal if it is being displayed in a romantic period gallery. You need to know the right time to communicate.
First, you need to be aware of your subject. As a painter, you must know who you are painting, their age, gender, profession and intentions for the painting.
Second, you must know the set, including lighting, background and props.
Third, when creating a painting, the frame, colors used, and the canvas along with how and where the painting will be displayed are factors you must take into consderation.
Being an effective leader means finding a better way to communicate. This art form is one that must be continually perfected and adjusted. All of the same aspects as the painter need to be considered:
- Who are you speaking to? Great leaders adjust to their audience. They know that speaking to a seasoned veteran of the industry is not the same as speaking to a college aged entry level administrator. Understand that their needs are different, their experiences are different and how they filter what you say will be different.
- What is the context? Is the timing perfect, is the climate in the office or group up or is it down? What type of pressures are you and the person (s) being communicated to under?
- How does what you are saying personally effect the receiver? Are you delivering this message in writing, in person, to a group, or one-on-one. All of these factors will contribute to how you say the what you say.
The final thought on this, the right conversation at the wrong time is the wrong conversation. Even the best modern painting will not appeal if it is being displayed in a romantic period gallery. You need to know the right time to communicate.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
CPF Principle
For years I have seen first hand organizations struggling to survive and hit their objectives, and usually it is because their priorities are not aligned. The aligned could be just that they don't agree internally, or worse yet, it could be that their formula for success is founded upon a self gain strategy.
Let's look at a proven methodology that increases client satisfaction, employee/team member satisfaction and provides for a sustainable environment for growth for all stakeholders involved. This can be used in just about any type of organization that is a for-profit group.
This is what I call the CPF principle and I first started implementing it as my key philosophy, and team expectation set, about 15 years ago. The CPF principle is really very straightforward, 3 key things you must do as a leader to promote success and sustainability. Three simple words, yet three challenging propositions.
C = Client
P = Profit
F = Fun
The big idea is that if accomplished, the client is happy, your group is making money and everyone is having fun doing it.
That's it, it is that simple, right. Well, we will take a look at each of these in further detail in the coming posts ahead.
Let's look at a proven methodology that increases client satisfaction, employee/team member satisfaction and provides for a sustainable environment for growth for all stakeholders involved. This can be used in just about any type of organization that is a for-profit group.
This is what I call the CPF principle and I first started implementing it as my key philosophy, and team expectation set, about 15 years ago. The CPF principle is really very straightforward, 3 key things you must do as a leader to promote success and sustainability. Three simple words, yet three challenging propositions.
C = Client
P = Profit
F = Fun
The big idea is that if accomplished, the client is happy, your group is making money and everyone is having fun doing it.
That's it, it is that simple, right. Well, we will take a look at each of these in further detail in the coming posts ahead.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Excellence in everything and in everything, excellence.
Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Well, I believe it is the chicken, but that isn't the point. The point is that both are chickens, yet one begins the process.
So, which comes first, doing everything in an excellent manner or expecting excellence in everything and from everybody, and therefore you get excellence in everything? Just like with the chicken, you can make a solid argument either way. For our purposes of looking at a better way to lead, it is the latter.
Certainly, doing things in an excellent manner is a great course of action and will yield great results. Yet sustaining excellence in everything, and from everybody, requires that we expect excellence. We know what we want, we know what excellence looks, feels and sounds like, and in all things, that is what we expect. Then, from there, we perform and expect performance from our team, that will only be at or above that level. It isn't about tasks, or doing one thing well, it is about doing all things well.
My son is a golfer and strives to play in school and beyond. He is starting to learn the difference between enjoying golf and being a golfer. If you have ever watched pro golf you realize how small the difference is between a good shot and a great shot. The difference between first place and not getting paid for that tournament can be as small as 4 or 5 shots a round. Average golfers want to be good and shoot in the 80's. Pro golfers practice dilegently, for hours a day, expecting great results, shooting in the 60's. They work with coaches, watching film of their swing, making adjustments, all to ensure that the results are excellent. When the outcome falls short, they go back and adjust again.
Is that how you work, coach, mentor, lead your family or team? Do you expect great results, in everything and from everyone? When the outcome falls short do you reflect, learn and aim to improve?
In order to be a great leader, to create a following that delivers better results you must expect excellence. Being average or as good as a competitor isn't enough. Trying to keep clients from complaining isn't enough. When things fail, making excuses isn't enough.
Start expecting excellence and when you don't get it, ask why. Start to learn and improve the daily practice and never lower the bar. People tend to relax to the place where comfortable, make sure that is in the excellence zone, or take them back out the practice range.
So, which comes first, doing everything in an excellent manner or expecting excellence in everything and from everybody, and therefore you get excellence in everything? Just like with the chicken, you can make a solid argument either way. For our purposes of looking at a better way to lead, it is the latter.
Certainly, doing things in an excellent manner is a great course of action and will yield great results. Yet sustaining excellence in everything, and from everybody, requires that we expect excellence. We know what we want, we know what excellence looks, feels and sounds like, and in all things, that is what we expect. Then, from there, we perform and expect performance from our team, that will only be at or above that level. It isn't about tasks, or doing one thing well, it is about doing all things well.
My son is a golfer and strives to play in school and beyond. He is starting to learn the difference between enjoying golf and being a golfer. If you have ever watched pro golf you realize how small the difference is between a good shot and a great shot. The difference between first place and not getting paid for that tournament can be as small as 4 or 5 shots a round. Average golfers want to be good and shoot in the 80's. Pro golfers practice dilegently, for hours a day, expecting great results, shooting in the 60's. They work with coaches, watching film of their swing, making adjustments, all to ensure that the results are excellent. When the outcome falls short, they go back and adjust again.
Is that how you work, coach, mentor, lead your family or team? Do you expect great results, in everything and from everyone? When the outcome falls short do you reflect, learn and aim to improve?
In order to be a great leader, to create a following that delivers better results you must expect excellence. Being average or as good as a competitor isn't enough. Trying to keep clients from complaining isn't enough. When things fail, making excuses isn't enough.
Start expecting excellence and when you don't get it, ask why. Start to learn and improve the daily practice and never lower the bar. People tend to relax to the place where comfortable, make sure that is in the excellence zone, or take them back out the practice range.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
A spirit of leadership
The world seems to view our leaders as those that just have spirits of courage, of risk, of vision and those that have made it. The world is enamored with celebrity and those that become rich, even if what they do is a fad, or materialistic. The headlines are on scandals and stock markets rushes and on how much money someone did or didn't bring in. The world celebrates fame and money, and highlights those that WIN at the success game. Leaders tend to be described with phrases and words such as: powerful, dominant, aggressive, no mercy, a mover and shaker, a wheeler and dealer and the like.
Love, patience, goodness, kindness, gentleness, these are words that you rarely hear to describe leaders. I have actually been told not to use those words in marketing at companies, they sound too fluffy. I was told they were too personal and should be saved for families and parents with children, lovers, but not adjectives to describe our companies and certainly not our vision or our leaders, right?
Nothing could be further from the truth!
When you search history, and not the timeline of this week on Facebook, you will fine the best leaders EVER possessed these characteristics as part of their inner beings, in other words, their spirit. From Jesus Christ to Dr. Martin Luther King, from Abraham Lincoln to Mother Teresa, from a long time loving foster parent to your favorite pastor, they all shared this spirit.
A spirit that showed their care for others in love. A spirit that showed their wanting for what was best by exercising patience not just pusuasiveness. A spirit of doing what was right, not popular, but always righteous. A spirit to lead by being kind, good and gentle, always acting with self control. They didn't "lose it". Each of them worked tirelessly, for the cause of who they led, without pomp and circumstance and always with critics.
Take time now to reflect on if these words described as the ideal spirit of leadership. This "spirit" of leadership, is what comes from within you, naturally, without hesitation. It isn't what you want to be or how you want to act, it is what you actually do and say. Be honest with yourself and see where you can improve.
How do you react to conflict. Is it with with anger, bitterness, and malice? Do you have words that are gentle to heal, or do you speak with slander and hatred when your ideas are challenged? Take time, have the heart check and become a leader that has a spirit of true leadership and you will find yourself in some great company.
Love, patience, goodness, kindness, gentleness, these are words that you rarely hear to describe leaders. I have actually been told not to use those words in marketing at companies, they sound too fluffy. I was told they were too personal and should be saved for families and parents with children, lovers, but not adjectives to describe our companies and certainly not our vision or our leaders, right?
Nothing could be further from the truth!
When you search history, and not the timeline of this week on Facebook, you will fine the best leaders EVER possessed these characteristics as part of their inner beings, in other words, their spirit. From Jesus Christ to Dr. Martin Luther King, from Abraham Lincoln to Mother Teresa, from a long time loving foster parent to your favorite pastor, they all shared this spirit.
A spirit that showed their care for others in love. A spirit that showed their wanting for what was best by exercising patience not just pusuasiveness. A spirit of doing what was right, not popular, but always righteous. A spirit to lead by being kind, good and gentle, always acting with self control. They didn't "lose it". Each of them worked tirelessly, for the cause of who they led, without pomp and circumstance and always with critics.
Take time now to reflect on if these words described as the ideal spirit of leadership. This "spirit" of leadership, is what comes from within you, naturally, without hesitation. It isn't what you want to be or how you want to act, it is what you actually do and say. Be honest with yourself and see where you can improve.
How do you react to conflict. Is it with with anger, bitterness, and malice? Do you have words that are gentle to heal, or do you speak with slander and hatred when your ideas are challenged? Take time, have the heart check and become a leader that has a spirit of true leadership and you will find yourself in some great company.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Breathe
Effective leaders in life and in business take breaks to think, to be strategic, to make room for new ideas and to just breathe. In the rush of life, in the madness that can occur in running a business the real movement and growth comes from a leader that takes time for solitude. In these moments of solitude, the mind is free to relax, free to discover new methods and to renew the energy required to navigate the road ahead.
Follow these 6 steps below to effectively breathe and improve your performance:
Follow these 6 steps below to effectively breathe and improve your performance:
- Set a time each day to be quiet, remain still and gather thoughts. The best time is when you first wake up and greet the day.
- Set a time each week that you will remove yourself from fighting the fight and just dream about what the future can be. Literally, block out your schedule.
- Schedule one fun day/night per month. If married or dating, regardless of your age, keep dating. At work, schedule a lunch, a happy hour, something fun for you and your team. Don't talk business, just enjoy the time.
- Plan a vacation, and take it, at least one a year. If finances are an issue to keep you from traveling, still use the time to be away from the normal routine and play. Go to the park, have a picnic, see a movie or go to the zoo.
- Always be reading a book that has nothing to do with your work.
- Keep notes of what you come up with in your quiet times and breaks. These concepts and thoughts are important to action steps needed to grow.
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