Find your leadership gift and give it away
The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away. Pablo Picasso
Podcast host Dave Stachowiak begins everyone of his Coaching for Leaderspodcasts with this statement, "Leaders aren't born. They're made." One of the most important duties of a leader is to make more leaders. This was instilled in me at an early age and I still live by it. Our companies, indeed our nation and our world need more leaders. Whether the person you are grooming for leadership leads in your company or goes on to serve people in other capacities you must make this most important investment. Give away your gifts. Show up to the party with several boxes adorned with decorative ribbons bearing labels, "To: A future leader, From: A current leader."
If it were I serving under your leadership, this would be my 'Christmas list.'
Your Failures. What did you get horribly wrong in leadership, what did you learn from it and how did you adapt? When failure occurs with a potential leader or in general in your organization, be the first to share how you failed at this before, then coach the person or team to learn.
Your Experience. This is in keeping with your failures. You've gained good concepts for leading, many of them through trial and error. You have experience operating and managing your precious time. Share how you apply this experience with your people.
Your Ears. Listening is a gift you can give. Often people know that you cannot fix their problems. Many just want to be heard. It's why we have 1 mouth and 2 ears! Study active listening then practice it as a gift to your people. Lend or 'give' an ear.
Your Confidence. There is no leader whose confidence is absolute. All of us struggle with limiting beliefs and doubt our capabilities. I've heard countless stories of how a leader grew exponentially because he or she was entrusted by another leader. "Courtney, I trust you and have complete competence that you will succeed at this task." That's a gift.
There are more gifts to add to the list such as your knowledge. Do some 'introspection shopping' (ooo! a future blog) and discover your own list of gifts. Then show up daily and give them to your people. Start today creating the next leader.
I'm never too busy to speak with a leader in need. Reach out to me and I'll give my gifts away.
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell