The best solution for developing your leadership skills is rooted and grounded in your thinking, speaking, planning, preparation and rehearsal.
A familiar U.S. bedtime story entitled “The Little Engine that Could,” tells the story of a little steam engine that could not pull her long train of cars up a steep hill. After making several attempts, the little steam engine went in search of help. After being rejected by two big steam engines she came across another small steam engine who agreed to help. As the two little engines attempted to move the long train of cars up the steep hill, they started repeating, “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can…,” and eventually they DID. The story ends with the little steam engine saying, “I thought I could, I thought I could, I thought I could.” The little steam engine may have said “I Think I Can” after seeking help; however, she “Thought She Could” when she initially attempted to pull the train of cars alone, sought out to get help, and graciously accepted rejection from the bigger and stronger steam engines, yet did not change her confession. Finding help in another small steam engine was a reflection of what she knew to be true already on the inside of her.
A familiar U.S. bedtime story entitled “The Little Engine that Could,” tells the story of a little steam engine that could not pull her long train of cars up a steep hill. After making several attempts, the little steam engine went in search of help. After being
Just like this story, Leadership Development, requires Leaders to build and retain a solutions driven mindset. “I know I can” must grow into “I know We can.” Success is a team sport, that starts with a vision. This type of thinking goes beyond what is common, seen or previously accomplished. It is applied to every leadership opportunity and is a constant companion to much speaking.
Great leaders say IT before they see IT. The confession of completion comes before the results. If you the Leader do not believe that success is at hand, it will be a challenge to convince followers to work towards a successful end with maximum effort in the face of uncertainty and doubt. Leadership requires navigation. Chart the road to success through strategic planning. The Truth is that Leaders do not know everything. The planning phase of leadership will allow Leaders to identify strengths and weaknesses. It may require the advice of additional experts that are smarter than you. This is not the time to be envious, but a wonderful opportunity to receive and grow. It’s OK to identify personal weaknesses. This way, Leaders may identify who to partner-up with in order to fortify the gaps in the plan. Once planning is underway, Preparation is soon to follow. There are many ways to prepare, but ultimately all preparation must be carried out with the vision and goals in mind. Depending on the circumstances and/or situation, Rehearsal is definitely a must. Everyone on the team must have a clear and concise understanding of their role in the plan. Game time is NOT the time for rehearsal. Every team member does not have to be involved in each phase of the Planning and Preparation stages; however, they must be included in the Rehearsal, all having agreement that “I Know We Can.”
Stay tuned, so much more to come. Fit to Lead.
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