What I Tell Leaders When They Ask How to Improve Performance

Early in my career, I was a machine, a reckless competitor! I pushed people. We closed a lot of business, lost a lot of business, and had no referrals. Most 'managers' (in contrast to a 'leader') are like this because they are focused on the wrong objective: to satisfy their own needs or agenda.

When we talk about "Lion Leaders," we understand that they have developed certain defining qualities. The important thing is that they know who they are. They accept the responsibility of their role and they act in a way that is consistent with how they see themselves as leaders. When you know who you are, you’ll know who you are not, and you can acknowledge or strengthen your defining qualities. Every Lion Leader ? that I have trained, has made a decision to acquire certain qualities, without negotiation. For some, it is a work in progress and for others, they are working on moving from memorizing to internalizing. Their goal is to master them.

When you modify your mindset and behavior, your team will recognize this and will be more willing to commit to the vision with you and follow you. Lion Leaders focus on using a system of purpose-based actions: they stop “telling" and start asking questions to ensure that everyone sees the vision. This allows the team to execute effectively and perform above all of the established standards. These qualities can be learned, but they all start with your BELIEF SYSTEM (covered in my book); if you don’t believe in them, you won't do them. Start by doing these things:

• Train and motivate yourself daily! (It is not your organization’s responsibility, it's yours.) Your team won't follow an uninspired leader.
• Be aware of your daily routines and step it up. Your team is watching you.
• Create a culture of performance - This means no gossip, negative talk, or mediocrity. Don't say: "DO this"..say "LET'S do this."
• Ask yourself: Is what I'm doing allowing my team to exceed our goals? If not, change your actions and mindset.
• Stop following the herd, stop being a friend, manager or a boss! You are a leader! Stop acting like and leading like the competition. BE the Competition!

Leadership is an honorable role. Lion Leaders set new standards that may not be popular, but are necessary. Leadership positions must be respected and approached as a role of responsibility. You have a responsibility to identify your strengths and weaknesses and to keep improving yourself.

So once again, you are faced with another choice. You can say, "Yeah, I've heard this before and I already know this." My answer to you would be: "Yeah, but do you do it?" and "Do you do it ALL of the time?" It’s time to step into your potential.

“When it comes to leadership it’s not the title that counts, ask yourself, am I worthy of following.”– Mike Rodriguez

Now go forth and make YOUR LIFE exceptional! - Mike Rodriguez

This is an excerpt from Mike's best-selling book LION LEADERSHIP. Order your copy Here and learn how to become a Lion Leader

About Mike Rodriguez

Mike Rodriguez is today's modern motivator and educator. Mike is an internationally known sales and leadership expert working with clients around the world. As a best-selling author, Mike has written several books and he has been featured on CBS, U.S. News & World Report, Fast Company, Success Magazine and has been hosted by Barnes & Noble book events. Mike's clients include names like Hilton, the Federal Government, McDonald's Corporation and many Fortune 500 global organizations in telecom and technology. To learn more go to FREE CONSULTATION