A very key term in any setup but one that is much maligned. Why the word "maligned" because howsoever key the term Leadership is, it is used that much loosely.
What defines Leadership - A set of mindsets and behaviors that aligns people in a collective direction, enables them to work together and accomplish shared goals, and helps them adjust to changing environments.
This is a definition by the book. But Leadership in action is above and beyond just a group of words. It is common yet an uncommon trait. As per it's not a trait developed but one which is inbuilt. Let's see below what actually is Leadership and how is it confused with Management or just simply bosses.
1. Leading by example - Sounds simple right. In action it is not that easy. What people generally tend to assume is that leading by example means taking the first step of the ladder. In reality it does not end their. Leadership is climbing all steps and helping those who cannot climb. Examples need to be set by actions and it lies in those small actions, those small things which matter in the bigger picture.
2. Standing up - Leadership implies standing up for your team. Standing up in crisis and backing them when the chips are low. Stating the obvious is not leadership but silently standing behind is what true leadership is.
3. Lead from the front and back - Leadership requires one to not only lead from the front but also take a step back when needed. This implies giving the team a chance to take the stand and letting them you have their backs. Leaders know accolades and brickbats both stand at their feet.
4. Show the path and also allow others to make one - Leadership puts the team on the right path and also knows when someone in the team is capable enough to build the path and backs them.
5. Self aware - Leadership is the ability to be self aware of oneself and all those in their surroundings. Leaders need not know answers but have the capability to know when and how to find them.
What we have seen in the above 5 points is an ideal scenario but now we will see where this becomes muddled waters.
1. People assume leadership in action means dropping points here and there. Just merely getting to the starting point is assumed as Leadership in action and that is a big fallacy.
2. Two words of encouragement does not signify standing up. Yes it does help but standing up implies a lot. It's the small actions on a day to day basis that matter the most and not occasional big actions.
3. Everyone wants the coveted top position but no one wants to lead from the back. It is a pride to be the one in front but standing at the end of line and still driving the team ahead is not fanciful.
4. I am the boss and this is the way I have decided. That's the easy part and is oft mistaken as a Leadership trait. This is actually a mistake.
5. The most challenging part is everyone feels they are self aware but how well one is gets tested in adverse scenarios.
In all the key point is, there is a very thin line between Leadership and Management. What separates a true leader from an everyday manager is how a person is able to draw a line and able to deliver when needed.
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