It’s a BIG understatement to say that 2020 has been a turbulent season. And, unfortunately, the challenges you’ve been navigating won’t just go away when January 1, 2021 arrives. This is season has tested the leadership ability of leaders in all sectors of society.
One thing that I’ve noticed during times like these is that it’s easy to focus on tactics and strategies while overlooking caring for the people in your organization or on your team. It’s easy to get tunnel vision while trying to fix the problems you’re facing. But people are your most valuable resource and they are navigating the same challenging times in their own lives. They are looking for leaders to care for them and help them move forward.
Transformational leaders have the courage to keep moving forward through the dense fog that is in front of them. Followers are desiring caring guides to help them navigate their way through the same fog. In your effort to come up with creative solutions to your problems, make sure not to overlook caring for your people.
In ancient times, the metaphor of leaders being “shepherds” and followers being considered “sheep” that needed tending was common. In our day and age, calling someone a “sheep” is intended as an insult, but I want to encourage you to reframe your thinking as a leader on this idea. Sheep need guidance and protection. On their own, they are vulnerable. Shepherds keep watch over their flocks in order to ensure they are cared for and have all they need to survive and thrive.
Leading people is much like tending sheep. They wander when they become stressed. They look for someone to help them find their way. Right now, most people are going in all sorts of directions seeking answers to the challenges they are facing. While they may care about your organization and the goals you have, they are facing unprecedented stress and anxiety. This limits their effectiveness. It’s being reported that depression is elevating. People are feeling lost and confused just like sheep that wander off from their flock out in the wilderness. They need guides. They need a caring leader.
As you go through this season, consider how you can shepherd your people well.
Ask them how they’re doing.
Seek ways to give them clarity where they feel confused.
Discover ways to serve them in ways that make them feel valued and safe.
You have an opportunity right now to build greater loyalty with your followers by how you take care of them in the midst of a global pandemic, social unrest, economic turmoil, and political uncertainty.
Be the leader they need in the midst of a chaotic, and often scary, season that we’re all navigating through.
You are a leader for such a time as this. Fight through your own confusion and fears in order to help others find peace, hope, and answers when confusion is swirling. This will not only add value to your people today but build your credibility for the years to come.
However, here’s a warning: If you choose not to do this, be prepared for people to wander aimlessly in lost productivity and begin mistrusting you and your organization. Your inaction during this season can have long-term negative consequences.
The choice is yours. What will you do today to ensure that the future is bright for you as a leader and for your organization’s success?
Until next time…make today GREAT!
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