On day 1, previous problems are now yours
While the mid-term election results are still pouring in and we have a run-off election to wait on (or more?) I'm thankful they are mostly over. Congratulations to those individuals elected by the people. For those who lost, I hope they do so gracefully and professionally. I hope they spend more time learning from their experience, decisions, and words, than they do pointing fingers. As always, I'll remain apolitical here, focusing instead on leadership.
Unfortunately, if you need examples of bad leadership, look to many of our government leaders. Many suffer from delusion, painting a rosy picture in times of hardship, claiming how they have been clear and consistent, and smearing the previous leader or administration. Perhaps, in part, that is how politics is played - bashing a political party and person in support of the other, but I do remember a time when all of this was less prevalent - where we had more dignity, courtesy, and less mud-slinging, where we talked more about the issues and policies to address them.
The one which bothers me the most is the constant blame placed on a previous leader or administration. I've always operated under the philosophy of, "on day one, you own all the problems." It might seem unfair but it is the best way to approach leadership. The Army was not immune to this. I experienced some egotistical leaders who bad-mouthed their predecessor to make themselves look like a savior. When this happens, a leader risks alienating some of his or her people. In the case of most elections, a leader risks alienating near 50% of their constituents.
Embracing change (a new leader), is not automatic. Some grew accustomed to the previous leader and may resist the new one. Identifying known challenges is ok but leave the previous leader or administration out of it. It is your watch now and yours to fix. Numerous times I replaced another leader and, while the temptation was there (ego), I avoided mud-slinging. Instead I got to work on the problems everyone knew existed and worked hard to gain the trust and respect of my people.
I wish all the new lawmakers the very best as they govern. And I hope they are brave enough to resist the temptation to 'pass the buck.' I hope they lead and lead well. I hope they work hard to address the problems their constituents raise and that they see those problems as their own.
Make it Personal
Rob
Rob Campbell