Labors of Leadership

Leadership has often been something I have contemplated. I have served in many different positions where leadership is necessary on various aspects, but the hardest leadership position I have ever had was when I was at the top. Not because of the increased amount of work, nor because hiring and firing decisions fell on my head, but because I did not have the ability to spend a lot of time in the trenches next to those people to inspire them.

Leadership to me is helping people understand why we are doing what we do, and then have the desire to do their best so that we can accomplish that. When the buck stopped at my desk, that meant that I really had to rely on the few weeks of training I gave them, as well as hope that I could inspire those directly under me so that the could turn around and inspire those under them.

This trickle down method is scary to rely on at some times, but also necessary. Fortunately, I found those people to surround myself with that wanted the same goals I did. I could trust these people to get it done, and even take over if necessary. Considering the position I held, I approached all of my employees with the mentality I am their mentor first, their boss second, and their friend last. This was very successful. They knew my door was always open, yet didn't bother me with trivial things nor steal away my time as they would a friend. I was also able to make critical decisions based on what was best for the company as well as what was best for them when I kept this mindset in mind.