The Desirable Change

The moment many of us have been anxiously waiting for is fast approaching. We’ve never been shy to speak our minds on our political leaders, but with Rishi Sunak’s surprise general election announcement, we could be seeing the start of a much-needed change.

It’s been no secret that this government has failed to win over the hearts and minds of the British public and for many years we have been demanding better leadership. Unfortunately, we have had Prime Ministers that were not voted in but selected by the political party – which already leaves a sour taste with the electorate.

It would be extremely easy for me to write about the negative impact inflicted by poor ill-informed decisions, personally and professionally, from those leading our country over the past 8 years – but quite frankly, we are all very aware of the impact. From the messy and detrimental decision of Brexit to the current struggle of living, millions have been affected by our political leaders. With talk around mandatory national service for our younger generation, Sunak continues to show a lack of understanding when it comes to what the people of this nation prioritise.

The thought of mandatory national service is outdated, and we have covered exactly why in a previous discussion.

It can be easy to point fingers at the front figure, whether it was Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, or Rishi Sunak – their team around them have also let themselves down.

I often find it hard to discuss political issues without my true personal feelings getting in the way – an issue I am sure many of us find hard to overcome too. But as a British person, I want to have a leader that I can be proud of and have faith in to do the right thing for their people and the country, not just their political party.

It’s been sad seeing the indifference and fire in people’s bellies disappear thanks to an unfortunate display of undelivered visions and lack empathy from those leading us. Quite frankly, lives have been turned upside down and changed forever. I know I said I wouldn’t focus on the negative impact, but sometimes things just need to be put into perspective for us to understand just how important strong and inspiring leadership can be, and why we need it now more than ever.

It is extremely important for us to now focus on what can happen next. Whoever wins, we must try and give them a chance. The job in front of the leader is an extremely tough one, and we take nothing away from that. Running a nation is not for the weak, and it is in no way easy – but there are correct ways to do things, whether they work out or not. We all will have a part to play in helping to deliver the change that is so necessary.

The UK has recently lacked a ‘doer’ when it comes to political leaders – words mean nothing when action is not taken. We need both integrity and competence – the ability to deliver has become essential. We are past the desire of a visionary; we are looking for someone to get the job done and prove why they deserve to be trusted.

On July 4th, the general election opens, and whilst understanding the apathy and disenchantment of many, it is an opportunity to give someone else a chance. It comes across as a ‘better late than never’ situation. It felt like even though the announcement was inevitable – things got so bad that it felt like it would never come.

There are some striking similarities between the leaders of the largest parties – no big personalities, none of them are great communicators and a lack of a sparkling vision for the future. We have had big empty promises, completely out of touch and a shambolic inability to deliver. Maybe it’s time for honesty, competence, and a focus on delivery.

The election provides us with an opportunity to influence which leader and which party is given the chance to do things differently and better.

For years we have been calling for better leadership, better support and overall, a leader that we can trust. Now is the time to look beyond the one-off populist announcements and get the economy, society, and support that our communities deserve.

We only have to look at the many recent elections in Europe and beyond, there are some scary situations that should remind us that we should not miss out on voting, no matter how frustrated and disillusioned we have become.

The reappearance of Nigel Farage is a stark reminder of how a more charismatic communicator can sway many into believing an empty and dangerous narrative.

It just might be time for both leadership and a good dose of management, but most of all honesty, integrity and to mean what they say, and say what they mean.

In no way will change be instant, nor will it be perfect, but it will certainly be the beginning of getting people back on their feet and putting hope for the future in front of them.

The best communicators are the best listeners.

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Thought of the week:

The best leaders never refer to their authority.

Tips for becoming an A player:

• Include everyone
• Practice honesty everyday
• Help those around you
• Learn from others
• Enable your strengths to take you forward

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