“You’ve got to learn your instrument. Then, you practice, practice, practice. And then, when you finally get up there on the bandstand, forget all that and just wail.” — Charlie Parker (1920-1955) Jazz musician
Consider this:
Greatness isn’t calculated and it’s never by the book. It’s born from the moments when – after studying the book – you put it down and let your instincts take over. The moments when you stop thinking, trust what’s in your bones, and let loose.
Leaders are a lot like musicians. The best ones let it come from their bones. However, it never happens on its own. Preparation is key. Something I do with clients is have them develop their personal theory of leadership. Through reflection and dialogue, define the values and behaviors they need to succeed. The result is an internal roadmap. One that helps them trust their gut when the heat is on so that they can just wail.
Try this:
- Take some time to reflect on what you value – i.e. the things that have a positive impact in your life a business.
- List them (e.g. integrity, excellence etc).
- Choose the top 5-7.
- Create corresponding behaviors for each of the top values. What do you actually do to live each value?
- Let the list work in the back ground to guide you. Regularly check in to see if you’re operating from those values.
- Hone your list and tweak it every so often to ensure it represents you.
— Doug Sundheim is a leadership consultant, author, and speaker. His book on Smart Risk-Taking is due out in 2012.
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