I was walking by a river the other day and saw this swan elegantly gliding past. The movement was effortless and it got me thinking about some of the best manager or leader I have known. Perhaps a slightly odd link, but do bear with me and you will see where I am going with this.
Most of the best managers and leaders I have ever worked for have invested a lot of time and money in their own management development and leadership development. And I do distinguish between the two. This personal development has enabled them to ‘go with the flow’ to link back to the swan – or so it seems. What is happening though is they are carefully paddling below the surface, changing course easily as they see obstacles in their way or feel an undercurrent that may influence the destinations.
Interesting, I hope you would agree.
The manager or leader who is rushing about making things look hard and aiming to show that they are busy have seldom invested enough time and focus in their own management development or leadership development. So their wings are in a flap with lots of agitation.
- So are you a swan or do you feel in a flap?
- Do you correct course with just the right subtle adjustment beneath the surface?
- Do you keep your attention on what is happening?
- Do you want to create the swan like elegance?
People may not notice you as much but you will be far more effective!
You have choices.
My best wishes,
Peter
