Rules of Leadership
I think a lot of problems associated with leadership today is centered around perfectionism. We all strive to be perfect in what we do, whether it’s leading a team or a various organization. Although perfection is what we all strive for, we all know that that is an unrealistic goal. Instead, leaders sometimes need to take a step back to refresh our minds and readjust to various circumstances that are presented before us. So, in the name of the leadership, I’ve provided a few helpful tips for leaders:
- When a situation is stressful, don’t overwhelm yourself insisting that it’s solved instantaniously
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help- it does not make you look weak or incompetent
- Know when to take the backseat- DON’T BE POWER HUNGRY!
- Recognize the strengths of individuals on your team and utilize them
Being a leader is often a daunting task, but it is nothing to feel inferior to. And if you don’t believe me, follow these rules from Colin Powell:
Until next time,
Keilah Sutton
October 17th, 2012 at 4:21 pm
I love this! People OFTEN don’t know when to be quite and listen, and various times are oblivious to the fact that just because one is a leader it doesn’t make them any better than the people they lead. A leader is not perfect; hell, nobody is perfect (except for maybe Betty White) but all humor aside, it is important to understand strengths AND weaknesses in oneself when thinking of oneself as a leader. These tips are amazing and hopefully people learn a little from this!
October 21st, 2012 at 2:02 pm
I agree with Rodrigo – these are great points to bring up that all leaders can learn from! I think that leadership today is seen with the leaders as more of a shark brooding around a tank and leading by fear and intimidation, rather than the more appropriate image of the head of a school of fish. While this example may sound like it comes straight out of the movie FInding Nemo, I think it is a good representation of what you’re saying. Many leaders often become to aggressive when they try to reach unrealistic goals and refuse to give up any of their power, but in reality it is their job to gently guide those around them using their strengths to bring out the strengths of the others who are involved. I know at least personally, this is something I initially struggled with as a leader. As I began to be more realistic and involve others, not only did my job get easier, but the quality of the group’s work went up as well.
October 24th, 2012 at 2:58 pm
I agree, I think perfectionism is a very tempting trait that leaders fall into…leaders want to do their jobs well and are often unwilling to compromise, ask for help, or admit that a job can’t be done single-handedly.
Oftentimes we put this trap on ourselves subconsciously. We are pushed all our lives to be the best we can be, that we as constantly dissatisfied with ourselves. We are more willing to offer grace to others when they fail then we are willing to offer ourselves grace. It takes a lot of humility to admit that, maybe, just maybe, we aren’t as perfect as we think we are, or as others may see us, and that we aren’t, in fact, always good people.
October 31st, 2012 at 2:07 pm
I really like this. Some leaders always want to be in control of the group. But sometimes they don’t know how to handle or do something. Then the whole group does bad. The leader needs to know what is best for the group and implement it. The tips you give really show how a leader can accomplish more.