If you don’t want to do the hard things then don’t sit in the big chair. Successful leaders know how to do hard things. They understand that dealing with hard things is what moves an organization forward. There’s value in working through hard things. Holding honest conversations about difficult topics helps build trust, especially during challenging times. It will require vulnerability. It takes skill which means it must be practiced, refined, and done again and again. Dealing with hard things is not easy however it is what successful leaders do.
GRAPE
What motivates people to volunteer for an organization? In most instances, there are five motivators that are activated for most people. For some, recognition may be more important than achievement. For others, interpersonal relationships, or participation with others, may be more important than recognition. Most people, however, are motivated by one or more of these elements.
Growth: This means personal growth - learning to work with others and learning new skills such as time management and decision-making.
Recognition: Anything from an actual award to a pat on the back, everyone likes to receive recognition for a job well done!
Achievement: The personal sense of accomplishment that comes from seeing a project through from beginning to end and knowing that you had a part in it.
Participation: Connecting with other people and making new friends.
Enjoyment: People get involved because they enjoy it. It’s fun!
Developed by Dr. Sara Boatman 1975
Lead yourself — know yourself, improve yourself, and manage yourself
In the pursuit of leadership, it begins with a deep understanding of oneself. Leaders who know themselves possess the self-awareness necessary to make informed decisions, communicate effectively, and inspire others. This knowledge serves as the foundation for personal growth and development. By seeking out opportunities for growth, leaders elevate their abilities and stay ahead in a constantly evolving landscape. They recognize that personal development is not a destination but a lifelong journey. Strong leaders who understand the importance of self-management can efficiently allocate time and energy, enabling them to perform at their best in both personal and professional realms. A leader's professional responsibilities should not overshadow their personal well-being. Balancing work, family, health, and leisure is vital for sustained success and overall happiness. By knowing oneself, continuously improving, and managing life's demands, leaders can set a powerful example for others to follow.
Communication Behavior
“We need better communication” is a common response when asking people in an organization what needs to improve. It could be that people are seeking an improvement in communication behavior.
Defensive Communication Behavior
Evaluative: indicating an idea or worth of a person is subject to judgment good or bad
Control: perceived effort to manipulate
Strategy: deluding a group member
Neutrality: cold and impersonal
Superiority: using intelligence or experience to talk down to others
Certainty: a “know it all” attitude
Supportive Communication Behavior
Descriptive: genuine request for information or taking an objective viewpoint
Problem orientation: a “we” approach of collaborating to find a solution
Spontaneity: willingness to suspend judgment
Empathy: expressing concern by sharing the feelings
Equality: indicated mutual trust and respect
Provisionalism: looking at options to explore thoughts and ideas