Leadership and Change

Change and leadership go hand in hand. Sometimes change happens swiftly. At other times change seems to happen at a snail’s pace. In many organizational environments whether corporate, small business, for profit or non-profit the most difficult times are when the leadership needs to be changed due to being unable to affect positive change in their teams.
True leaders must be alert to conditions that need to change and should in fact create shifts in mindsets, conditions and resources in order to inspire positive outcomes for others. This is one of the reasons leaders must be committed to looking closely at their own behaviors and to ongoing personal development.
If there are areas in your company or business where conflict seems to be the norm instead of the exception, you can almost be certain that there are leadership issues. Getting to the source of the conflict may not be easy, but it is necessary in the long run. Every person in an organization must be valued and made to feel that they are necessary.
Leadership Inventory Checklist
There is always an opportunity to develop healthy relationships as well as to inspire engagement and learning when a leader is devoted to creating an environment that encourages growth and openness. Whether you are at the very top of your organization or are a valued team leader, it’s important to stay open for new opportunities to learn. Leadership is a role that needs to be taken seriously. However, you don’t have to be serious to be a leader. You can make it look easy and fun when you stay focused on your own behavior.
I’ve compiled a list of questions leaders at every level can benefit from asking themselves. Print it out. Keep it handy. Review it frequently and you’ll be the great leader you aspire to be.
 

• Are you accessible to all of your people?

• Are you truly authentic with your people?

• Are your actions consistent with your words?

• Are your people clear are you on where you are taking them?

• Do you believe in the changes you are proposing?

• Are you willing and capable of sharing your reasons why?

• How would you rate your patience level and understanding that everyone processes differently?

• How successful are you at inspiring trust and letting it flow?

• Do you easily share your experience with others?

• Do you welcome mistakes as a learning opportunity?

• Are you capable of and willing to let go?

• What is your level of interest in recognizing individual wins and rewarding these?

• How well do you build community spirit?

 
Actions always speak louder than words and the environment you create mirrors your leadership style and abilities. Remember, the mirror always sees exactly what’s there. Since leaders are truly meant to be agents of change, change yourself first. You’re sure to see positive change happen all around you.