Five Hard Truths

A couple of weeks ago, I was asked to present to a group on the topic of key leadership traits. This topic gets significant attention, often compulsory advice on examples we know but need to hear again. The ones we don't talk about that we need to connect on. I punted and said let me speak to you about the things not often told. I finally got around to penning them in a few snippets.?

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1. Doing RIGHT is not Convenient

I don't recall when, but years ago, a mentor shared with me, 'Do right, it can never do wrong.' Honestly, I didn't get it then; age continues to teach me the meaning. Our character is measured most in the times when standing for right is more important than acceptance, likes, or accolades. No question…I'm still learning.?It's about courage not convenience.

2. Loyalty is a GIFT

We need to be mindful of how we offer loyalty. It must be earned. Attention given as it can too easily be spent in a moment. There is a saying to never push a loyal person to the point they no longer care…it's true. Stress, pressure, doubt, and fear cause people to dismiss it recklessly. When loyalty is offered, or when we offer it, handle it as one of the most unique gifts we have.

“The most difficult thing is the decision to act; the rest is merely tenacity. The fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life; and the procedure, the process, is its own reward.” - Amelia Earhart

3. Give MARGIN to Others, Yourself too

Somewhere along the line, we have forgotten what it means to be human. At our core, we are a work in progress - each day, an opportunity to do better, right our wrongs, and make a difference. Yes, have boundaries and protect your peace, but give margin for everyone to learn…especially within.?

4. Equip + Empower requires our INTENT

One of our values at Netsmart is to be a 'Leader and a Teacher.' I find living this value to be one of the hardest. Time seldom allows us to teach, but it very well may be the most significant contribution of our efforts. The drive for perfection is noble, but not at the cost of equipping and empowering others. To scale and grow, this has to be foundational in our mindset.

“The right thing to do and the hard thing to do are usually the same.” - Steve Maraboli

5. Nothing Speaks of TRUST more than not Trusting

The temptation of micro-management directly results from what I mentioned above. Trust requires us to allow for learning - to adapt and pivot - while being a part of the process. It also means allowing the outcome to be reached differently than we imagined. Most importantly, you'll find others help when the conversation is constructive as we align on continuous improvement.?

Bonus Topic: Have REGRETS

I may be the opposite of the 'No Regrets' mantra. Regrets are the heart's way of saying, let's get to work. I have them. They are teaching moments, times I would have done things differently. It's here I learn forward to be + do better.?

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The era we find ourselves in will require a different approach and playbook than we've known. It is daunting but exciting, as possibilities abound towards outcomes personally + professionally that find us all very much aligned.

All honesty begins within…this is how we find the truth.

It's not easy, but it is worth it!

#leadership #work #opportunity #mindset #values #people #dadtalking #giddyup #dothework