Hello, Purposeful Hearts! Today we continue our foundational, getting-to-know-you fun with some purposeful thoughts on leadership. Why do I care?
I began my passionate inquiry into leadership and communication studies late in college. I had repeatedly found myself in leadership positions, which made me wonder about several things. First of all, what was it that caused leadership to emerge – both for me personally and in general? Second, if I’m going to lead, how can I do it well? These questions led to a full-on inquiry into the fields of communication studies and leadership studies all the way through my doctorate. I care about effective leadership because it’s been so prevalent in my personal life.
I also care about leadership professionally. I began teaching my Leadership and Communication course at Wisconsin Lutheran College back in 2005. The institution’s mission statement claimed to prepare students to be Christian, servant leaders, but offered no formal instruction on leadership and no opportunities for students to practice, experiment, and grow under proper guidance and mentorship. To this day, I love teaching this class. I love watching students exceed their own expectations (and even mine)! I love watching students develop passion for a cause. I love watching them learn who they are as leaders and develop their personal toolboxes for their leadership journeys.
You know, I’ve always hated the phrase, “Those who can’t do, teach.” In fact, when I share some thoughts on education next week, I’ll dive into that sentiment further. For now, you need to know that my leadership coaching springs from leadership experience. I believe that “those who do something well should teach” in contrast to the previous quote. I care about leading well, and I care about helping others do the same.
More than ever, we need strong leaders who are armed with communication skills grounded in interpersonal sensitivity, emotional intelligence, clear values, creativity, and the ability to envision what’s possible. I’ve seen and felt the results of leadership that doesn’t understand the power of human connection and fails to see the unique value of each follower. That’s the opposite of leading with a Purposeful Heart, and it misses the surrounding Purposeful Hearts just waiting to unleash their gifts for the betterment of the organization.
If you’re in a leadership position, what are you doing today to truly see your people?
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