2020: LEADERSHIP UNDER FIRE

In an unprecedented weekend of fire danger the world has been watching as Australia burns.

It raises good questions in business and life about leadership and how individuals are required to inspire hope in others. Particularly at a time of national crisis.

I will not lament on politics or the well documented social media coverage of the tragic and sad loss of Australians environmental heritage, and a government that refuses to recognize material facts in the eyes of its only country.

Instead, on the first official day of the business year I will focus on the 5 key characteristics of leadership, as a reminder for us all.

1. Clarity

Leaders are clear about opportunities and threats. They recognise the issue and respond with clarity to them.

Generally, very few people know what they want, much less how to get there, so they will gravitate towards those who appear to have a clear picture in mind. Good clarity leads to great achievement.

In the case of the Australian Bush Fire Crisis there was little recognition of our countries senior leaders whether there was a problem. The Australians departure to Hawaii before Christmas, the delayed response of a government and lack.

Leadership instead was felt on the ground in the communities, firefighters who in their thousands defended properties across New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, and well-meaning citizens who assisted others via social media posts.

2. Decisiveness

Once a leader has made up their mind, they don't hesitate to commit--it is all hands on deck. Leaders show great consistency with their decisions. Being decisive shows commitment, a quality very high in demand for a great leader.

In the case of Australia's bush fire crisis it took at least six weeks for a government to act decisively. And when they did it was not in coordination with state emergency rescue bodies leading to confusion in NSW on Saturday as to where 3000 troops would be issued: during the worst day of fire threats,

On the other hand communities rallied together, and despite months of fighting the firefront were often seen in rural areas helping their neighbors, assisting others and their animals to safety.

3. Courage

Boldness is both something that should be developed as a leader as a virtue. Although some people are naturally more fearless an appetite for risk and show courage under fire is required in order to fulfill a role as a leader.

In the case of the Australia bush fire crisis, there has been remarkable shows of courage. Mostly on the ground as firefighters and those affected work together to defend their communities.

We have seen some great scenes of courage from the daily reports of the NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian who has stated "we have never been so ready" for the bushfire danger standing alongside Rural Fire Service deputy commissioner Rob Rogersin in their show of reassurance and support. This is courageous and shows commitment.

Meanwhile, the absence of NSW Emergency Services Minister David Elliott admits from NSW during bushfires on a separate overseas trip he himself has labeled 'inexcusable'

4. Passion

It is a great inspiration to seeing someone who cares about what they do--the best leaders exhibit boundless energy and passion for what they do.

In the case of the Australia Bush Fire Crisis it's important to recognise the work of those on the ground. Their passion burns through. Whilst sometimes invisible in the media eyes they are passionate about defending their communities. And do not crave nor seek recognition.

Our Prime Minister, however, launched an advertisement about the military's involvement in the crisis within hours of a press release moment on Saturday midday. This media response could have been seen as 'self-serving'. To defend his position and is a demonstration of inauthentic leadership; https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-01-05/scott-morrison-criticised-for-political-ads-during-bushfires/11841458

5. Humility

While confidence is a very attractive trait in leaders, there's nothing like a humble character.

Great leaders admit when they are wrong and take criticism as an opportunity for growth. Show the world how grateful you are to be where you are. This, in turn, demonstrate how deserving they are of the leadership role.

It is great our Prime Minister has recognized his 'mistake' of leaving for holiday in the early days of this crisis. He does show some emotion of humility in the face of meeting Australians who are 'angry' at a perceived lack of government support.

What Australia's Bush fire crisis pulls into focus incredible stories of hope and courage and faith. These stories are ones of the leadership of communities of neighbors rallying together in what I consider to be the true expression of the best of the human and Australian spirit.

However, leadership is not in the lofty heights of politics or parliaments. It is on the ground, it is in the trenches and it is those that dare to stand up beyond a social media post.

To offer help, and assistance and not blindly watch as a country burns.

Leadership Begins at Home

The Harvard Business reviews concur that Leadership Begins at Home. We cannot wait for our government or others to provide us with the leadership when it is lacking.

One of the greatest gifts we can give to ourselves as well as Australian Children at this time is to help in foregoing immediate gratification, by setting boundaries for them and by modeling the behavior yourself.

That’s also one of the greatest gifts you can give to those you lead or manage. Leadership begins at Home.

And it all begins with Hope.

If you would like to donate to the Bush Fire Crisis then assistance is gratefully received by the Australian Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org.au/campaigns/disaster-relief-and-recovery-donate