CONTROL

“The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority”, Ken Blanchard

?

?He was the man of the moment. A quintessential leader, often bearing the weight of victory or defeat. He planned and skilfully delegated responsibilities, strategically placed individuals in right positions, thus optimizing their strengths to achieve the desired outcome (victory). He took complete accountability for everything in his sphere of work.

?

He was General Dwight David Eisenhower, the 34th President of The United States of America.

?

He believed in the philosophy of influencing rather than controlling. He understood that effective leadership required letting go of the urge to control everything. He fostered trust and credibility among his men by sharing his vision, thereby influencing their actions.

He was the man who stood with his team during the planning of the D-Day invasion of Europe. He famously stated, “My decision to attack at this time and place was based upon the best information available. The troops, the air, and the Navy did all that bravery and devotion to duty could do.?If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt, it is mine alone.”

This reflects his commitment to ownership and accountability, inspiring those around him.

He never feared neither failure nor blame. He walked the talk and?encouraged everyone to be a leader like him.?His unique skill set and talent for influencing others made him a truly remarkable leader, whose principles continue to resonate today.

?

Great leaders are aware of the nuances of leadership and understand the need to influence, by various methods, rather than exercising control.??They know well that holding the reins of their team, and closely controlling every aspect of the team’s behaviour isn’t the fruitful way to progress. They are acutely aware of the fact that they cannot control everything and everyone. They acknowledge that the true essence of leadership is to hone their skill to influence their teams rather than focussing to control them. They?work on building trust and credibility. They set a compelling vision and clearly communicate the same to their team members. They are flexible, ready to accept failures, refrain from restricting their team members by authority and control, and focus on long term goals. They are genuine, empathetic and care about their people and their progress.

?

Outstanding leaders aspire to be influential by taking initiative and avoiding blame games. They look inward, introspect and improve upon themselves to become a role model.?

“It’s amazing how much you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.”, said Harry S. Truman.

?

Inspiring leaders?shun self-centeredness, think of options, delegate tasks, appreciate good efforts and encourage their teams to achieve their goals.?They think about?what’s best for the organization, and motivate their teams to achieve the same. They lead by influencing their teams by empowering them rather than control and obligations.

?

1. Practice growth mindset. Let go of trying to lead by control, instead practice being motivational and leading by influencing your teams.
2. Encourage your team to air their ideas. Appreciate and give credit to the team member where it is due.
3. Build trust and relationships. Delegate tasks appropriately.
4. Be a constant learner. Focus on improving yourself and achieving expertise in your field.
5. Learn and practice to communicate clearly.?
6. Be humble.

“Humility must always be the portion of any man who receives acclaim earned in blood of his followers and sacrifices of his friends”, said General Dwight D Eisenhower.

?

?

“You can’t control anyone, but you can influence nearly everyone”, said Michael Hyatt(actress).

??

Be inspirational and motivate others on the path of growth to lead by influence.