The Leadership Mindset: What to Focus On

Leadership is one of the most valued skills in the modern workplace. More than a hierarchical position, leadership involves a mindset that drives both leaders and their teams to achieve common goals and continuously develop.

This article explores the concept of the leadership mindset, defining leadership, analyzing workflow, discussing posture on a day-to-day basis, and suggesting areas of focus for effective leaders.

The Definition of Leadership

Leadership can be defined as the ability to influence and guide individuals or groups towards a common goal in an organization. According to Maxwell (2010)[1], "leadership is influence — nothing more, nothing less". This definition highlights that true leadership is not just based on authority or control, but on the ability to inspire and motivate people.

In O Que os Líderes Fazem para Obterem Bons Resultados? [4], I define leadership as a behavioral skill that can be learned, therefore developed in any human being. Leadership and mentoring programs can help professionals become better leaders. Effective leaders not only set goals but also create an environment where collaboration, creativity, and growth are encouraged. They cultivate relationships of trust and respect, which are essential for team engagement and productivity.

Workflow is a crucial aspect of the leadership mindset. A leader must understand how work is carried out within the team and what processes are involved. An efficient workflow is characterized by:

• Clarity of Objectives: Leaders must ensure that everyone on the team understands the goals and how each one contributes to achieving them.
• Division of Tasks: It is important to distribute responsibilities in a balanced way, considering the skills and interests of each team member.
• Open Communication: A healthy workflow depends on clear and continuous communication. Leaders must establish communication channels that allow for constant feedback and problem solving. In addition, technology can be a powerful ally in optimizing workflow.

Project management and communication tools can help monitor progress and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Posture in Everyday Life

The daily posture of a leader plays a key role in building an effective team. This includes:

• Be the Example: Leaders must act in accordance with the values and principles they promote. Being a role model inspires the team to do likewise.
• Demonstrate Empathy: Understanding the emotions and perspectives of team members is essential. Empathy creates an environment where people feel valued and understood.
• Have Resilience: In times of crisis or challenges, resilient leaders are able to maintain calm and clarity, transmitting confidence to the team. This posture helps to face adversity and seek creative solutions.

In addition, practicing a growth mindset is key. Leaders who encourage continuous learning and adaptation not only improve their own skills but also encourage team development.

What to focus on

An effective leadership mindset involves focusing on several key areas:

1. Personal Development: Leaders should dedicate time to self-knowledge and skill development. This can include reading books on leadership, attending workshops, and seeking feedback.
2. Relationship Building: Investing in authentic relationships with the team is key. Knowing each member's interests and motivations contributes to a positive work environment.
3. Strategic Vision: Leaders must maintain a clear vision of the future and communicate that vision in an inspiring way. This involves thinking long-term and being willing to adjust strategies as needed.
4. Feedback and Recognition: A good practice is to implement a regular feedback system and recognize the team's efforts and achievements. This increases motivation and engagement.

The connection between the Technical and Leadership mindsets is shown in the figure below, note that both will have a connection to transition from one state to the other in a professional's career:

The leadership mindset is a mindset that goes beyond simple people management. It involves the ability to inspire, motivate, and guide teams toward a common future. By understanding the definition of leadership, optimizing workflow, adopting a positive attitude on a day-to-day basis, and focusing on key areas, leaders can create a productive and innovative work environment.

Developing this mindset not only benefits leaders but also enhances the growth and success of the entire organization.

Referências

1. MAXWELL, John C. As 21 Irrefutáveis Leis da Lideran?a: Siga-as e as Pessoas o Seguir?o. 3. ed. Rio de Janeiro: Thomas Nelson Brasil, 2010.
2. Goleman, Daniel. Inteligência Emocional: A Nova Ciência do Sucesso. 1. ed. Rio de Janeiro: Objetiva, 2015.
3. KOTTER, John P. A Lideran?a na Mudan?a: Como Conduzir as Pessoas em Tempos de Transforma??o. 1. ed. Rio de Janeiro: Campus, 2003.
4. MONTEIRO, Aluisio. O Que os Líderes Fazem para Obterem Bons Resultados? Artigo de Lideran?a Linkedin, 2023.