Leadership Looks A Little Different These DaysНамуна

Day 4: Never stop listening. Never stop learning.  

Leaders who lead effectively through change are always listening and always learning. 

They are naturally quick to organize timely post-project debriefs, as well as various forums for others to share ongoing feedback. These impactful leaders have a reputation for being more concerned with understanding the perspectives of others than sharing their own opinions.  

One practical way to build your connections to others’ perspectives is by building a personal “Board of Directors,” a group of trusted voices that can provide unique and diverse points of view when needed. For example, if you are leading your organization in an uncharted direction, you could set up biweekly meetings with two individuals: one who has been a long-standing and loyal partner and contributor in the organization, and one who is a newcomer with little organizational history or context. Each individual will provide a unique voice that will help you consider the broader picture.

Many leaders who desire to raise up the next generation will surround themselves with voices who are in their earlier stages of career development, even putting themselves in a position of being a “mentee” to a younger “mentor.” In doing so, they can start to build strong bridges between generations and ensure their organization remains flexible enough to stand the test of time.

Leaders who value learning also value others' thoughts and feelings because they understand the root of change starts in the mind. As a result, they end up building a significant amount of trust in others that allows them to take greater risks while ensuring that others around will follow them into the unknown. 

The Book of Proverbs is packed full of Holy Spirit-inspired wisdom. Consider reading a verse from Proverbs each day and ask God to direct you in applying the principle to your own leadership growth.

God, I know that You are the source of all knowledge and wisdom. I ask that You instill in my heart a love for learning, and that I find just as much interest in others’ points of view as my own. Help me find trusted and wise voices that I can surround myself with that will speak truth and valuable insights into my life - both when I think I need it, and when I don’t think I need it.