Leadership, Morale and the Deer
A leader knows that the morale of his or her staff will make or break them in the long run. We have watched staff exit from the political campaigns of leaders that can’t be clear, stay on track or even take the time to discuss next steps. There is a lesson there and it came to me in a strange way today.
I had the unusual opportunity to walk in a beautiful forest in upstate New York as a break from my work, which is slated to go well into the night. As I hiked up a path on a steep hill a young doe walked out in front of me on the trail. A quick glance in my direction stilled me and the deer. We eyed each other for a while and then the deer eventually sauntered off into the forest. A little later we ran into each other again, this time near a pond where the doe was headed for a cool drink on a warm day. Again, I stilled, again the deer did not flee but wandered on to drink.
Leaders need to approach their people as the doe and I did with each other. Be still, quiet your mind, and just be. Listen to hear what is in the air. Is it peace? Is it fear? Let your thoughts be set aside, while you hear their thoughts. Know that you can co-exist because you have a mutual respect and understanding of each other.
If you rush, run, blurt, or push you will cause their thoughts to flee. You will miss the opportunity to hear the magic they bring to you and your business.
Our Mastermind groups learn how to do this every month. Are you missing out on this valuable leadership experience. Call us today to learn more about how two hours a month can make your managers into leaders and your leaders into superstars. 303-984-9271
Tags: Conflict, Human Resources, Leadership, Managment, Organizational Development