Your Leadership Matters
Recently in Mexico, on my very first camel ride with my wife, we chose to sit on the lead camel (called Maggie). Maggie led off really well and appeared to be settled and in charge as the lead camel. Well that’s what we thought, until she had to transition from the path onto the sand, down a slight incline. There was no way she would budge; she was set on holding fast and making lots of noise about her objection and desire not to progress. Maybe she was having an off day or had enough of being the lead camel. This meant that the whole train of camels was stationary, and progress was halted. In the end they took her from the lead to the back. The new lead camel took the lead and then she (Maggie) happily followed the camel train down the same place she had earlier refused without any fuss or concerns.
“In a group of people, someone will step up and lead”
Many times I have heard people say that they are not leaders. I actually said the same about myself for many years. I think I was feeling like Maggie the camel and that someone else would be a better leader. I was wrong, leadership is a mantel that anyone can assume. Here are six key considerations that are important to think about when you are thrusted into leadership:
Leaders need to believe in their mission or cause.
Effective leaders are driven by a strong belief in their mission or cause. This belief not only provides them with motivation but also helps inspire and influence others. When leaders genuinely believe in what they are working towards, their passion and commitment become contagious, making it easier to rally support from their followers.
Leaders need to be prepared to face the challenges of leadership.
Leadership often involves making tough decisions, handling conflicts, and addressing various challenges. Leaders must be ready to tackle these issues head-on. Being prepared means having the necessary skills, knowledge, and resilience to navigate through obstacles. Continuous self-improvement and learning are essential for leaders to stay effective in dynamic environments.
Leaders have others waiting for them to lead.
Leadership is not a solitary endeavour. Leaders are responsible for guiding and inspiring people towards a common goal. These followers look up to leaders for guidance, direction, and support. It's essential for leaders to recognize this responsibility and act in ways that align with the expectations of those they lead.
Leaders manage their emotions.
Emotions can have a significant impact on decision-making and interactions in a leadership role. Effective leaders understand and manage their emotions, ensuring that their reactions are rational and well-thought-out.
Leaders need encouragement and support.
Leadership can be challenging, and even the most accomplished leaders may face self-doubt or fatigue at times. It's important for leaders to seek encouragement and support from mentors, colleagues, or trusted connections. Having a support network can help leaders maintain their motivation, resilience, and mental well-being.
Leaders will be replaced if they don’t lead.
Leadership roles come with expectations, and leaders are accountable for their actions and decisions. If leaders fail to lead effectively, their followers may become disengaged, and the group's goals may suffer. Leadership is a dynamic role, and leaders must continually demonstrate their effectiveness and relevance to the mission and cause.
Leaders are revealed by their cause, character, and actions. It is important to remember that even the smallest of causes can inspire others to follow.
My 5 Learnings:
My passion and conviction in a cause or mission will inspire others.
I need to be ready for challenges in my leadership and deal with them head on.
I need to acknowledge and accept the responsibility of guiding and supporting those who look
up to me.
I need to manage my emotions to be able to make rational decisions.
I need strong support people to advise and encourage me.
People will rally around a person who has a compelling mission or cause. Think about what this is for you.
My 3 Questions for you:
What is your belief in your mission or cause that motivates others?
How are you preparing to face the challenges of leadership?
Who is waiting for your guidance and support in your leadership journey, and how do you meet their expectations?
"Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge."
- Simon Sinek
If you have questions, I would be happy to chat with you and help you discover more.
Remember daily to, “Find value in your influence”
Written By: Paul Fawcett.
