Think About It

In one way or another I have been involved in leadership for the last several decades.   I would like to think that I am getting better at it, but sometimes I wonder if I am making much progress.   The other day I sat down and thought about some of the things that I have learned through the years – in particular those things that tend to diminish my ability to lead.   Here are a few things I need to make sure I am doing: 1).   Listening :   Maybe the thing that is most misunderstood about leadership is that effective leaders tell people what they need do.   In all honesty, my best times in leadership have been when I am willing to listen to people.   Sometimes, what people need the most is just someone to listen to them and acknowledge them for where they are and who they are. 2).   Communicating :    Leaders tend to have more trouble when we don’t say anything than when we are transparent.   People are much more willing to give us the benefit of the doubt (and forgive our mistake