We look to our leaders to do the tough stuff. It's not just about having a fancy title, a fat salary with bonus, or a big office. If they are going to do their jobs well, they need to commit to surveying the industry landscape, listen to smart, trusted allies to shore up any knowledge or expertise gaps, and take decisive action on top priorities that are in the long-term best interest of the organization as a whole.
It is NOT about doing what is easy just so the numbers look better.
It is NOT about doing what is popular just so people will stop complaining in the hallways.
And it certainly is NOT about doing what is in their own best interests over and above the health and welfare of the organization and its key stakeholders (including employees).
True leaders know that their jobs are tough and they treat it with a level of seriousness that is worthy of their role. They spend the extra time to ask the right questions of the right people to find out what is mission-critical to the organization. They have crystal clarity on what is important, not just what is urgent. Or popular. Or convenient.
The best way we can affect change is to demand these things of ourselves. Every day, ask yourself if you are working on the most important activities that are strategically relevant to our overall vision. If so, congratulations! Keep it up! If not, take a step back, clear your mind, and remind yourself of one thing you can do that would be in support of your stated vision. If you need help in gaining clarity, get it. But whatever you do, don't waste your precious time (or the organization's money) on busy work.
We no longer have the luxury of having lame leaders delivering half-baked mediocrity.
Theresa Rose is a business motivational speaker, award-winning author and expert on mindful productivity who helps organizations and their teams make more time, get more done, earn more money and have more fun. For more information, visit TheresaRose.com.