Are You Easy to Follow?

“True leadership only exists if people follow when they would otherwise have the freedome to not follow”

?- Jim Collins, BE 2.0

Over the next few weeks, I will “unpack” the four mindsets that make up the next-level leader’s playbook.? In my experience, the essence of great leadership is simply this:??

Set Direction

Engage Others to Join In

Do the Right Thing (No matter what).

The Compass Mindset highlights the importance of Setting Direction consistently, and often.? It’s a continual check on where you are now relative to where you want to be or what you want to become as a team. Leaders are the mapmakers and guides of our organizations. We hold the compass. We show the way.

I believe that we often put so much attention on “how to lead” or the “personality of leadership”? that we forget that the fundamental “why” or function of leadership is to create a “clear and compelling vision that is shared by a group and is acted upon” (jim collins again).

Clear and compelling is bigger than a simple vision statement that lives on a website or a wall.? It’s a picture that leaders paint about what this vision will do to make the work, the team, and the “world” you work in a better place. ? It's the words, actions, and behaviours that “walk around” the spaces you lead.??

The vision defines WHAT you are in the business of doing.? Your vision articulates the big drive, desire or WHY you want to make it a reality.? A clear vision demonstrates your dedication and Will to do what it takes AND your determination and commitment to keep going, especially when it gets hard.????

Great leaders, with a compass mindset and a compelling vision model through their discipline of word and action:? the persistence and belief that creates

momentum and meaning within their team to show up and say “I want to be part of this too”.

In summary, your vision clarifies three things:? the reason your business/team exists; the value and impact you want to create and the principles or philosophy that will guide your actions along the way.???

As you look ahead into this year have you pulled out your compass and told the story of what keeps you up at night and/or excited about what’s possible? ? Have you shared your mental picture of where you are leading in a way that people see it too and feel the same energy?? Have you spoken about why you want it and how you want others to join you in making it happen? ? Even if it’s for the 100th time - more than ever, we need leaders who shine a light on a hopeful, productive, and promising way forward that feels worthy.

If not you, people will find someone or somewhere else.? It’s that simple.? Just not easy.

Think Big and Make it Visible…tell your vision story. See who follows and how.