|
By Dave Veale As I write this I'm on my way to deliver some leadership training in Belgrade, Serbia. The workshops that I will be delivering have required me to revisit some great material on leadership. As I reread Jim Collins' book Good to Great and Stephen Covey's The 8th Habit, I am reminded that these classics are just as relevant now, in these turbulent economic times, as they were when they were written. It seems every paper, magazine or blog I read touches on the topic of 'leadership requirements' in this uncertain period. I can't help but wonder if what is being implied in these articles is that leaders need to drastically change to survive - interesting thought... I am personally drawn to the idea that Level 5 Leadership (Collins) and/or Servant Leadership (Covey) is not only required now but was also needed, as is well documented, to transform organizations over the last five decades from good to GREAT and will be required in the future to drive innovation and the growth of new industries.
So I have a simple request...
As you consider being BOLD and thinking in terms of what is possible - regardless of the economic times - please look for examples of this type of leadership around you. I'm seeing amazing examples of brilliant leadership everywhere! I'm encouraged by a client who has decided to boldly expand her law practice this year. I'm inspired by a local entrepreneur who continues to chase her dream in a very public way. I'm struck by the courage and the creative thinking that another client put into his ensuring his family business continues to be viable without laying off employees. Have these leaders changed their tune as a result of our new economic reality? I don't think so. I believe they would be finding ways to take calculated risks, continuing to invest in self-development and challenging the boundaries of their comfort zones regardless of the predictions of our leading economists.
My sincere hope is that you are taking time to watch the brilliant leaders around you play big as well as finding your own opportunities to role-model courageous leadership. Imagine the potential impact if we focused on the positive things happening in these 'challenging times'!
Share and grow, Dave
|
