Leaders find multiple streams of resources for growth
Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow. – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Leadership is a full time position, not a full time job. Which leads us to the second principle, if we are going to have time to accomplish our tasks and lead well, we must be technically and tactically proficient.
This principle is dependent on knowing ourselves and seeking self-improvement. If we do not know ourselves, and if we are not seeking self improvement, it is impossible for us to be technically and tactically proficient in the areas of our strengths. However, if we are willing and able to take an honest look at ourselves, put in the effort of self-improvement, we can manage our weaknesses, and become technically and tactically proficient.
**Note: As John Maxwell, and many others have said, do not spend time trying to make a weakness a strength, it won’t happen. We must manage our weaknesses so they are not a hindrance, then focus on our strengths to make them stronger.
There are two ways of becoming technically and tactically proficient:
1. Immerse yourself in the right resources: Living in the information age has made getting resources easier than ever. There are books, magazines, e-books, online magazines, blogs, vlogs, podcasts, video conferences, you can even borrow an e-book from your library! Making reading, listing, and/or watching a daily habit. Think of it this way, if you know only what you need to know, you don’t know enough.
These are just a few of the many resources available on the web.
Fliboard (app)
Zite (app)
Pocket (app)
Google Books
TED talks
Audible (audio books)
2. Surround yourself with the right people: It has been said, “act like where you want to be.” This isn’t a fake it until you make it scenario, rather the idea is to surround yourself with others who are where you want to be. Keep in mind, this isn’t growth through osmosis, this growth must be intentional.
When you’re around other leaders:
– Study their success by asking open ended questions.
– Identify what daily tasks and habits make them successful.
– Ask about the resources that are/were most beneficial to them.
– Shadow them, observe their interactions and execution of responsibilities.
What resources (books, podcasts, blogs, apps) have been most beneficial to you?
What are some ways you learn from others around you?
Square One Leadership 