This blog entry contains LinkedIn posts for April 19 – April 23, 2021. The posts deal with self-perception, finding wise advice, learning from set-backs, getting the facts, and being persistent. As a group these traits represent some critical leadership basics.
Perception Isn’t Always Reality!
On the planet where I live, everything I do is fine. But often, others have a very different view of my actions!
Fact is, my self-perception may or may not accurately reflect reality. Why? Because of blind spots. Or, my unwillingness to reflect and change my offensive behavior. Or, any number of other ways I side-step reality.
Unsurprisingly, Proverbs 21.2 says we think everything we do is right. However, God is our final judge!
So, I must not be the leader who misses the obvious by blindly assume everything is fine with my behavior. Don’t be clueless!
Ask For Help!
What are key issues for getting wise counsel?
First, I must know where to go.
Second, I must be willing to ask for help.
Third, I must act on the wise advice because ignoring it leaves me right where I am!
Similarly, Proverbs 20.5 says counsel is like deep water, but it’s possible to draw it out using insight.
Leaders shouldn’t be know-it-alls. Instead, they must ask for help by drawing out insights from team members. So, be the leader who multiplies his/her impact by getting wise counsel.
Three Levels of Resilience
What’s the end game for being resilient?
For some, resilience only means to endure. For others, there’s personal growth from that difficulty. And, for a few, there’s sharing out of that challenge that impacts others.
Proverbs 15.15 states that my mindset, being cheerful or being despondent, affects my daily life, hence my likelihood of growth out of difficulty.
As a leader, when I grow through challenge I add to my toolbox of experiences that I can share with others. So, be that leader!
Fact Finder or Impulse Responder?
Responding on first impulse most often guarantees that what I say or do will be problematic.
So, why do I do that? Often, it’s because of a lack of thoughtfulness. That is, I respond in anger, or out of bad habit, or because I want a quick fix.
Similarly, Proverbs 18.13 says I cause problems by responding without getting the facts. Conversely, Proverbs 18.15 says those who have a wise and discerning character will get the facts.
Don’t be the leader who carelessly shoots from the hip. Instead, be deliberate about understanding the situation before formulating a response.
What suggestions do you have for being a fact finder during the press of daily activity?
When No Isn’t Final
Sometimes, “No” means don’t ask again. Ever!
Like when my boss told me “this is all you’re getting – don’t ask again!” Ok, I get it!
However, at other times a “No” means not right now. Hence, be persistent but not obnoxious.
Interestingly, Proverbs 25.15 says a prince can be persuaded by long forbearing. That is, I’m more persuasive as I’m more patient with the process.
The leadership lesson here is to be discerning about where negotiations stand. Then, recognize how to influence someone to consider my position. So, be that discerning and diplomatic leader!
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