The Journey from Answer-Provider to Solution-Finder: Lessons in Leadership
I spend a fair amount of time reflecting on my own successes and failures in business. A handful of lessons I’ve learned over the years stand out to me as simple, yet foundational. These are likely not revolutionary thoughts by any stretch of the imagination — but perhaps they will at least serve as a reminder or deterrent from some fatal flaws.
You don’t have to always have the answer. (And guess what… you probably don’t have it anyways!)
In the vast landscape of leadership, there's a misconception that the leader must always have the answers. I've been there, caught in the trap of feeling the pressure to know it all. But through experience and reflection, I've come to understand that true leadership isn't about having all the answers; it's about having the humility and resourcefulness to find them, or to create solutions when needed.
One of the pitfalls of feeling like you must always have the answer is the fear of being wrong. As a leader, your words carry weight, and a misstep can lead to a cascade of negative consequences. It's crucial to resist the impulse to rush into providing an answer and instead train yourself to slow down, ensuring that your responses are effective and well-informed.
Furthermore, the pressure to excel in every aspect can be overwhelming. But good leaders recognize their limitations and surround themselves with individuals who complement their strengths and weaknesses. Whether it's hiring someone with expertise in areas where you lack proficiency or fostering a culture of collaboration within your team, acknowledging and embracing these differences can lead to greater success.
Failure often presents the best opportunities for growth. Don’t stunt your team by being a babysitter instead of a boss!
Another challenge many leaders face is the temptation to micromanage, often out of a sincere desire for the team's success. However, this approach can stifle creativity and growth among team members. Instead of "babysitting" and intervening at every turn, leaders should empower their team to make mistakes and learn from them. By providing guidance and support rather than correction, leaders can cultivate a culture of innovation and resilience. Your goal as a leader should be to see your team thrive and succeed without you.
You know what they say about assumptions…
Don’t assume that you are correct. Don’t assume that policies that you put in place, or decisions that you made last year are still the right ones! You should always be assessing your department — staff, policies, procedures, inefficiencies, and looking for ways to elevate. Flexibility and a willingness to challenge the status quo can lead to breakthroughs and foster continuous improvement within the team.