What I Learned About Leadership When I Just Moved The Cones

As a leader, change always starts with us. I am sharing my moment when all that I thought I knew changed.

Share yours in the comments!

JUST MOVE THE CONES

I have grown and evolved as a leader over the last ten years. My approach has shifted from being a strict, control-oriented boss to one who inspires growth and development in companies and individuals. I have learned to coach others, relinquish my need for absolute control, and empower others to make decisions. However, one defining moment propelled me to a whole new level of leadership - and it all started with a safety cone.

On a busy day at work, I met Tyrone, a stucco contractor who had just joined our team. We were working on a construction defect job, and I gave Tyrone his safety gear and two cones, stressing the importance of safety. I even set them out for him at his work location. When I returned to the site later, I was infuriated that Tyrone had not placed the cones properly. I picked them up, drove to where he was, and set them out again in front and behind his truck. I was ready to scold him for not following our safety policy when I noticed the quality of his work. It was so impressive that I forgot about the cones and thanked him for his excellent work.

The next day, I expected to find him without the cones again, but I was surprised to see they were in place. I appreciated his work and craftsmanship and told him so. Then, as I was leaving, I turned back and said, "Tyrone, I appreciate the cones being in place, and I can tell that you value safety as much as we do." He beamed at me with gratitude, and at that moment, I knew I had to change as a leader.

I realized that instead of being a boss who demands obedience, I needed to be a leader who inspires and empowers my team. I learned that there is a difference between coaching and controlling, and I wanted to be the kind of leader who can positively impact others.

Looking back on that moment, I can see that it was a turning point for me. It changed me at my core, and I have become a better leader. I will never forget that interaction with Tyrone, and it reminds me that small actions and gestures can make a huge impact on people's lives.