Leadership is Lonely
I met with a client today. The meeting struck me more than most meetings. I had planned to give him advice. I did not do what I had planned to do.
I listened. I asked questions.
He has a difficult "row to hoe". This leader needs to take some action. Everyone knows he needs to take action. Now is not the time to take that action. It is not the time for many good reasons.
Why is this so difficult? It is difficult because if you are truly a great leader (he is), you often can't tell anyone, "I know what you want me to do. I'll do it later." People ask, "Why isn't he doing this obvious thing?" Friends and colleagues offer feedback, "Just do this thing and everyone will be happy, confident, whatever...." People can see what needs to be done and because they can see it, they want it done now.
As a leader, you have to do what is best for the organization. If you try and cover all the bases, explain everything, tell everyone about future tough decisions, you make yourself look good but you do not help the organization. If you are a great leader, your timing is impeccable and you are lonely. When you take the action, everyone finally understands (or maybe not).
Filed under:
executive coaching,
leadership
Sandra Oliver - March 17, 2008
