Three very big and critical words to bring insights to in this communication – ”Prioritizing,” “Authentic,” “Leadership.”
Let’s start with some definitions –
Prioritizing – To arrange or list a group of things (actions, items, tactics, strategies) in order of priority or importance for specific contribution to an outcome
Authentic – Conforming to facts and therefore worthy of trust, reliance, or belief
Leadership – Capacity and/or ability to lead while also following
The last definition of leadership might have caught you off guard, specifically the last few words referencing following. Typically, when a person hears the word “leader” or “leadership,” they immediately associate it with a person of authority or someone in charge. There is a predisposition that others follow leaders. This comes from the base of the word, and that is to lead. Great leaders who come to mind include military commanders, social rights advocates, and captains of sports teams. They all have some level of authority, and yes, people follow them; thus, they lead, are leaders, and, hopefully, provide excellent leadership. This is where the big critical words come into play.
As they exercise their leadership capabilities, they must follow the big critical words; therefore, they are followers. When a leader prioritizes effectively and efficiently and their thoughts and actions are authentic, they live at a higher level of excellent leadership.
To be a top-shelf leader, you must first understand, appreciate, and execute follower disciplines. You must persevere through the stress and pressure of adhering to leadership frameworks and foundations, even when it does not feel right or when you anticipate conflict in your leadership efforts. This is why you need personal and business “Core Purpose,” “Core Values,” and “Core Principles” by which you lead, follow, prioritize, make decisions, etc. By holding yourself true to your framework, you are demonstrating and, more importantly, holding yourself to a higher degree of authenticity. By being authentic, you will subliminally attract others who want to be part of a successful framework and enjoy the fruits of everyone’s contributions.
It is also important to note that prioritizing, being authentic, and leading are not limited to groups of people or efforts. Real quality leadership starts with self-leadership. You don’t need to be in charge of a project or group of people to be a leader. As the insights spell out, leadership starts with following. By identifying key characteristics, skills, and capabilities you desire to possess, prioritizing them, and being authentic to your framework, you will be a disciplined leader.
This week, step into the classroom of silence and give yourself the opportunity to self-evaluate your leadership. Do you have a framework and foundation that you will not deviate from under any circumstances? Will your framework be lived daily and executed authentically? Are you strategically and tactically prioritizing items to effect a positive contribution to the whole?
If these insights have caused you to think or rethink your current leadership status, you are on your way to self-development and growth toward becoming a top-shelf leader. This is just the awakening. Now it is time for you to take decisive action. Give JKL Associates’ Promise Guide a call at MI (313) 527-7945 or FL (407) 984-7246 to start a conversation about top-grading your leadership for the future.
Journey On!
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