3 Gloomy Perspectives that Block Passionate Leadership
Marshall Goldsmith, top rated Executive Coach and author of What Got You Here Won't Get You There, says
"If you want everyone else to be passionate, committed, dedicated and motivated, you go first."
We know that the most effective leaders practice what they preach and go first to set the example.
And yet, as a leadership coach, I regularly work with leaders whose perspectives obstruct their ability to show up as a Passionate Leader.
Here are 3 gloomy perspectives I've heard and perspective shift suggestions.
1. "It's easier to do the work myself."
Who hasn't said this? Especially if you're leading people who do the work you use to do. But, as a leader, it's now you're responsibility to support those doing the work. In the short term it may feel expediate to do the work yourself, but that's a recipe for stress and overwhelm. And ultimately leads to less committed and motivated team members.
Perspective Shift: Take the time to identify the work that only you can do. Things like advancing the goals, securing resources and advocating for the team. And then make a plan to delegate everything else.
2. "I never really wanted to be a leader."
It happens more often than you might think. A company expands and technical experts find themselves leading a team. Valued employees have capped out in their salary range and get promoted to a leadership role. A leadership gap is filled with the only person who says, "Ok, I'll do it".
Without effective coaching and support, it's difficult for this leader to be successful and almost impossible for them to become a Passionate Leader.
Perspective Shift: Recognize that leadership has a distinct set of skills and abilities. Do your research on what it takes to become an effective leader. Ask your organization to invest in your skill development. If your organization refuses your request, seek out good coaching and training, even if that means paying for it yourself.
3. "I love being a leader, except for dealing with people."
This one might make you a chuckle, especially if you've said or thought it yourself. This perspective, however, indicates a love for the trappings of leadership, but not for the essence of leadership. A Passionate Leader is one who energetically focuses on actions intended to positively influence both self and others toward a common purpose, vision or desired outcome.
Perspective Shift: Examine your motives for taking on a leadership position. Recognize that your perspective will impacts your team's performance and ultimately your success as a leader. Work with a coach or mentor to shift your perspective.
To quote Ty Howard, motivational speaker and former NFL cornerback: "The task of leadership is not to put passion into people, but to inspire and illicit it, for the passion is there already."
How about you? What gets in the way of you showing up as a Passionate Leader?
About the Author
Gayle Ely is a Leadership Coach, Trainer and Facilitator who believes Passionate Leadership can change the world. She works with business and non-profit leaders and teams to help them perform more effectively so they and their businesses can thrive.
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