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As I think back over current and past leaders that I respect for who they are and what they have accomplished, what marks them is something far deeper than skills they possess. Obviously leaders need to have a certain level of competence to succeed. In addition, there are key habits they must embrace to be truly effective.
I recently attended a webinar hosted by Daniel Harkavy of the organization, Building Champions. Daniel talked about improving self-leadership using four part of the body as an analogy. Here is my take on his points.
1. Your Head: Working “On” the Business
In my consulting work, many leaders I work with find it challenging to work “on” the business because they are spending so much time working “in” the business. It’s important to think about where the business is headed and what is happening in your industry so you can lead the organization into the future. According to Harkavy, leaders that have optimistic mindsets about their businesses and the future are the most successful.
2. Your Heart: Clarity Around Your Convictions
Deep beliefs and convictions come from the heart. “If we are clear, it’s easier to stay true to what’s important,” says Daniel Harkavy. Our core convictions are similar to our core values in that they are things we are willing to fight for. This gets to the heart of building trust with your team and how they perceive you. If they see consistency, trust with them will increase. One of the best books I’ve read related to building trust is The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey.
3. Your Eyes: Clear Vision
Leaders need a clear vision to move into the future. The vision needs to be inspiring in order to motivate team members to move from where they are to where they need to be. We all know that vision leaks, so it must be repeated until you are tired of hearing yourself say it. You also need to have patience with your team. It will take them longer to see your vision and own it for themselves. In order to be successful, your objectives need to be tied to your vision and the goals of team members. This will ensure it is integrated and aligned throughout the team and organization.
4. Your Hands: Intentionality
Leaders need to leverage their time based on what they are uniquely positioned to do. As a leader, it’s your role to communicate and provide clarity around expectations. You are also in a position to provide coaching to your team to develop additional leadership capacity in your organization.
In order to be effective leading others, you need to be effective leading yourself. As a leader, you need accountability and support so you become the leader you want to be. Do you have a coach who is helping you grow and develop? Who is holding you accountable for your growth?
Share Your Thoughts: As you think about the habits of effective leadership, which ones are you already good at, and which one do you need to devote time and energy to improve? Share some of your success stories with us.
