Discovering Leadership: A Journey of Personal Growth

Sometimes, it's hard to define the role of a team leader. Is it about leading a team by setting targets and KPIs? Measuring results and devising plans for improvement? Is it about guidance and motivation? Now, after two years, I can definitely say that it’s a symbiosis and the real magic happens when management and leadership come together in perfect synergy.?

While leading the team, especially when you're in a leadership role for the first time, you may feel isolated. You won't always have someone to share complaints or fears with. You might question if you're doing things right or why you're even doing them at all. But when you witness your team's commitment, respect, appreciation, and their desire to contribute, you understand the value of your role.

Here are some of the things I've discovered about leadership:

1. There is no 'you/me and your/mine results'; it's 'us and our achievements.'

2. If I want to measure my results, I can measure them by the growth and results of my team members.

3. The team's atmosphere depends on our values, which must be promoted and deeply ingrained in our DNA. Without this commitment, they're just words on paper.

4. We must share a common vision and a common goal. When we define our strategic goals together and communicate our ultimate vision, we become a unified force moving in the same direction, bound by a shared purpose.

5. Protecting team members is not something bad, on the contrary, it's good. People are more open, creative, and honest when they feel safe.

6. Mutual trust and respect are essential. Giving the team space to develop means trusting them, even when they might make mistakes.

7. Teamwork is a skill we must cultivate. While it's easier to work independently at times, collaboration often yields better results.

8. Leading by example, coaching, and empowering others is the most effective way to develop future leaders. And no, it doesn't mean I have to know it all, I have to know where and how to find answers but it also means I have to develop continuously.

9. It's okay to show vulnerability in front of the team. Being human, with feelings, doubts, and the capacity to make mistakes, helps build trust and respect.

10. Empathy is a valuable quality that should be practiced daily, not just through words or actions but as a way of being.

11. Cultivating a feedback culture is crucial. We need to openly share our thoughts, impressions, and concerns and be receptive and appreciative of our colleagues' feedback. Constructive feedback can be challenging to give but is essential and we have to learn how to give it right.

12. Sometimes, I'll be cast as the 'bad guy.' When things go wrong in my team, I will be the one who will take these moments upon myself as it's my responsibility to address and resolve the issues.

13. Consistent communication with the team is vital, not just when tasks need completion but to gauge how they are feeling. Caring about their well-being as individuals is equally important.

14. Expressing gratitude, whether for significant achievements or small victories, helps team members feel valued every day.

15. Encouraging questions rather than just issuing directives and telling what to do can foster motivation and lead to more efficient problem-solving or good results.

16. It's not just about motivating; it's about creating an environment where people feel empowered to motivate themselves.

17. What works for one team member may not work for another. People have different needs and preferences, and that's okay. There's no one-size-fits-all approach.

18. I should avoid comparing team members to each other; everyone has strengths and weaknesses. My role is to identify each person's strengths to achieve great results together.

19. Offering constructive criticism privately and public praise is a better approach to leadership. It's about doing things correctly and constructively, not just showing off.

20. While we may not always have time for joy, finding ways to bond and spend time together can enhance team cohesion and ultimately improve results.

In conclusion, I understood that my journey is not just about personal ambition. What I do may not always be visible to the external world. Instead, it's about inspiring others to achieve their full potential. And now, I found my purpose in being there for my team, helping them improve every day, and finding a part of myself in their results and achievements.