I was recently asked to list the first five words that come to mind when I think about the future of our organization. What a great question! As I thought about my response, I was struck by the unlimited potential along the road ahead. With this in mind, one of the words I selected was “opportunity.” Peter Drucker famously said that “the best way to predict the future is to create it.” As a leader, you have the opportunity to envision a preferred future and go about the work of making that future a reality. I can’t think of anything more exciting!
The opportunity to create the future also comes with a responsibility to do so. Without clear vision, the team will struggle and the excitement of opportunity will devolve into confusion over the unknown. Paint a clear picture of the future that could be and share it often.
Too regularly, the everyday demands on a leader’s time can quell the excitement of leading. Resist this! Your excitement as a leader will build momentum in your team.
If you do find your enthusiasm waning (and we all do from time to time), consider these four ideas for renewing your excitement as a leader:
- Revisit your vision – Many leaders either do not have a clear vision or do not revisit it often enough. You cannot lead others if you don’t know your destination. Refocusing on your vision will re-establish your goals and clarify your direction. If you don’t have a clear vision, what better time to create one?
- Do something different – Author Mark Batterson wrote that a change of place plus a change of pace brings a change in perspective. I have found this to be true time and time again. Attend a conference, get off-site for a day or two, take a vacation, read a new author, or all of the above.
- Talk to other leaders – Sometimes leaders just get stuck. Talk to other leaders about their visions ; learning the exciting progress in their spheres of influence can be a great catalyst for your own renewed enthusiasm. Surrounding yourself with other leaders who are excited about the future can build excitement in you. And, excitement is contagious!
- Talk to your team – What excites your team? What do they want to see the organization accomplish? Nothing will motivate you more than hearing your team members share their hearts. My friends at Chick-fil-A are known for saying that with every pair of hands you hire, you get a free brain and heart. Tap into this! You will be glad you did.
What is your current level of excitement as a leader? Take a moment to rate yourself in this area. If excitement is low, would you commit to doing one or more of the above suggestions in the next week?