An Emerging Leader's Style (Blog 5.2)

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I have been learning about, reflecting and meditating on leadership since the summer of 1997 when I spent a week sailing around the Florida Keys for the Sea Explorer Advanced Leadership Program. That program was created by a former FBI agent, who valued decisiveness and commanding others to act. His style didn't necessarily jibe with mine (sailing joke). I preferred to ask my crew for their input before making big decisions, and I enjoyed sharing ideas and knowledge to ensure that we were all on the same page. It seemed like collaborating with the crew and gaining their buy-in would ensure all of our safety as we sailed a 44 foot ketch around coral reefs. 



The fundamentals of my leadership style haven't changed much since 97, but as I learn and grow in my current role, my style has evolved a bit. Although my position isn't considered to be a "leadership" position, I know that I can lead from any role. One way that my leadership style has evolved in the past nine months is that I feel more comfortable admitting that I don't have an answer and that I am still learning. A leader doesn't have to be the smartest person in the room, but they do need to be willing to learn.

One aspect of my leadership style that I would like to improve on is the way I handle my own mistakes. When colleagues make mistakes, I am able to point out the benefits of their mistake. I can talk about lessons learned and how we are stronger because of it. I am still not able to view my own mistakes this way; I am way too hard on myself when I screw something up. Fortunately, the leadership in my department is always quick to tell me that all is well and I just need to chill. 

Despite my weaknesses, I know that my strengths are greater. I have the ability to encourage my colleagues by pointing out their strengths, expressing gratitude for their ideas and input, and being excited about their potential. I believe my greatest leadership strength is my ability to motivate my colleagues to continue to learn and develop and grow out of their current role and into something more challenging. 

 References: 
Couros, G. (2015). The innovators mindset: Empower learning, unleash talent, and lead a

culture of creativity. San Diego, CA: Dave Burgess Consulting.

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