If you are leading a team or organization, I have some simple advice for you. This is based on years of experience. I have been guilty of trying to lead on my own. I once had the false idea that I had to lead independent of others and that if I shared my struggles with other leaders, somehow I would be less of a leader. I felt like a sign of strength was to prove that I didn’t need help, but, as many of you know, this is never true for any leader.
Even still, I have been in organizations where there was no one on my team I felt I could confide in with a weakness. If this is your case, or especially if you are the only leader:
Always have a group of people you trust ready to assist you; to be your sounding board.
This isn’t just a leadership principle…this is a good life principle…
Here are a few things to look for in a person for a group like this:
- One who has been where you are…
- One who is going where you are going…
- One who will not judge you….
- One who can keep a confidence…
- One you would follow their leadership
Are you leading alone? Be careful…you may want to find someone who can be there at the appropriate time…Don’t be afraid to recruit those people into your life. Chances are good they equally need that connection.
Does this post resonate with your story? Is there a time that it did?
Hi Ron, I would go further than to say a sounding board is necessary. Surely leading on your own is never wise and leadership through team is always preferential. As an English man, my observation of American culture is that you put a leader/CEO on a pedestal and look to them for everything when in actual fact you are making them vulnerable.
That's a very keen observation. I agree. Thanks
Absolutely.
Thanks Tony for being honest.
This definitely resonates. I've tried to lead my family alone, my job alone and be in ministry alone. Every time I failed and weaknesses and/or sins were eventually exposed. I'm determined to learn from that.
Leading alone comes down to one thing…pride.
I found an excellent book a couple of years ago that touches on this aspect of leadership. It really opened my eyes. I recommend Fish Out of Water by George Barna. Great post, Ron. Thanks!
I actually have that but never read it. Thanks for the suggestion
Great list Ron, Now if you can find a few that encompass all those traits, then you can conquer the world!