Calm waters do not forge great leaders

The title is borrowed from the powerful African proverb: "Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors."

Without challenges, how can we truly test what we stand for as leaders?

What does it matter if we are full of compassion and inspiration when the waters are calm... but descend into totalitarian behaviour as soon as the seas get rough?

But I'm sure you've experienced something similar.

If you think back to your earliest moments in your career... when did you realise who you wanted to be as a colleague, a peer and a leader?

What was happening at the time?

Did you witness someone you looked up to handle a confronting incident with grace and compassion?

Did you help a colleague in a tough situation and realise the power of small actions in difficult times?

Or maybe you experienced some challenges, and a leader shone a light on a hidden path when all the other doors and windows of opportunity had seemed shut?

Whatever the case may be, it's adversity that tests us to our core.

Adversity forces us to decide what we stand for. It shapes what we become known for. Not just that, but through our actions, we can either inspire others or demotivate them entirely.

That's why the results from Monday's survey were so resonant with me:

It reminds me that leaders can never underestimate how much their people (especially those early in their careers) are watching and learning to see how their leaders respond in challenging situations.

This is the 'shadow of leadership', casting itself over future generations of leaders. However we act as leaders when the waters are rough, that's what shapes the future leaders, for better or worse.

You would be surprised how many people you've shaped without realising it!

So, my final thought is an invitation:

What are you most proud of achieving when the waters were rough for you?

How did it shape you for the better?

How do you think it set a positive role model for those around you?

Because that is your powerful shadow of leadership, offering a beautiful shade for others to sit under in the glaring heat of life and ponder how they want to lead :)

xx

Reem

Leadership Coach | Founder of innergalaxy.com.au

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