Feeling overwhelmed and not sure how to maneuver through the opportunities in your business and relationships that are before you? As a leader you may believe you have to have all the answers to successfully guide your team. The truth is that you do not have all the solutions so learning to collaborate with others is key.
Leadership is a unique journey where we are constantly facing challenges, especially in these uncertain times. The best part of your journey may not be reaching your destination but the experiences it takes to get there.
Over the past few months in quarantine I have had opportunity and time to connect with fellow colleagues and discover their unique strengths and talents. This begins the process of collaboration. Discovery of others’ talents is a great resource to continue overall growth and when you have a situation that you are not sure about.
“We are stronger when we listen, and smarter when we share.” ~ Rania AL-Abdullah
Awareness of your own talents and strengths will guide you to recognize how others can strengthen your leadership. Be honest with yourself. Be vulnerable and recognize when to ask for assistance and guidance. This simple step will save time and money in your business.
“Where we are weak, someone else is strong.” – Aden Leadership
Recently I enjoyed an article by Alan Mulally about being a better parent. Parenthood is one of the most important roles of leadership in my life. I am honored to be raising two amazing young boys who challenge me to grow in my own personal development.
Alan, who has five kids, shared how he applied his famous Business Plan Review (which he credits for his ability to turn around Ford Company) with his family. It all began with his mom. His mother repeated three things to him every day, over and over again, like a mantra:
- The purpose of life is to love and be loved, in that order.
- To serve is to live.
- It is nice to be important, but more important to be nice.
The foundation of Alan’s leadership strengths began with advice from his mom. Lessons learned to put people first, not self. I share these thoughts above as we can all learn from Alan’s mom mantra. Learning and sharing is the key to everyone’s growth and success.
Today, more than ever before, we must be the very best parents and leaders we can be. I am not sure where you learned the great qualities and attributes of leadership, but please deliver the service with grace and intention so those around you will learn and grow accordingly.
For more of Alan’s thoughts click here.
In Service,
Greg
PS, my mom is one of my best friends!
“Collaboration allows teachers (leaders) to capture each other’s fund of collective intelligence.” – Mike Schmoker