How often as leaders do we understand the unique motivational needs of others as it relates to providing a vision, focus and direction for the company?
As leaders, our job is to create an environment for folks to grow and develop in professionally. I like to think of this as a dramatic opportunity - and it is pretty dramatic, really, because the developing leader faces life-or-death survival challenges - death by customer, death by cash flow, death by no support, and slow, painful death by not having a clear vision or purpose.
Individuals want a story they can write themselves into. It's my responsibility - my opportunity - to create and reinforce a story which motivates and inspires others. If I am not energizing others with a powerful story that motivates them, I'm failing.
For Myself
I get caught up in my issues. I often don't take the necessary time, energy or focus to reverse roles and see out of someone else's eyes. Too often I believe folks should just get it, as it relate to vision, values and mission or our goals. Behavior is observable - values and vision aren't - I need to communicate regularly and succinctly where we are going and why we exist.
Ask Yourself
Am I clear with my team about where we are going?
Do I connect this to our vision and values?
Am I inspiring or de motivating folks around me?
What is the one thing I can do today to improve this?
Am I ready to do it?
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