Notes on work, success and leadership – things we forget about
There’s been so much ‘nagging’ about how to become a leader so far. Still, after becoming one, holding on to the gained values is essential. Though, sometimes, pressed by the circumstances, leaders tend to forget some of the values, so here’s a ‘heads up’ about it.
Stay away from ‘the high view’
The usual attitude of many leaders of organisations is “I’m the boss, I’m the special one and you’re just an employee”. Well, that seems a bit wrong, doesn’t it? You know it’s wrong, maybe they know too that it is wrong, but such things happen a lot to people in high positions. Still, that’s not what leadership is all about. Leadership is also about recognising the value of each teammate and using that for the benefit of the organisation, of the common purpose. This is also connected to self- awareness.
Self awareness wins
This is not only about self-confidence, but about realistic self-confidence. It means understanding your strengths, your limitations and in consequence acting from competence: know when to rely on someone else. A good relationship with oneself is always a great benefit when leading – it gets you a good relationship with the others as well.
Don’t force things
Forcing one’s own view onto a situation blinds him or her from seeing what is actually going on. Therefore, one might act inappropriately and mess things up for the team, but also for him- or herself. If not forced, things usually fall into place. Always mind the timing: act the appropriate way at the appropriate time.
Yielding or decisiveness?
It’s just like ying and yang – balance. The middle way always gets the best results. Not falling into extremes is important for a leader. Mixing listening, co-operating, being open with being decisive has the best outcomes for everyone.
Leadership – The Classics
Speaking of being open-minded, here is some precious literature about leadership that will surely help: (all good things come in threes)
- ‘The Art of War’ – Sun Tzu
- ‘The Prince’ – Niccolò Machiavelli
- ‘The Republic’ – Plato
