Leaders Lean With the Bend

medium_1065832638A couple of rabbits chased by a pack of dogs dashed into a thicket and stood there for a moment, panting. “Well,” one said to the other, “do you think we should keep running or stay here until we outnumber them?” (Sarah Castle)

This got me thinking about our response to hardship or conflict. Nature dictates that we make one of two responses: fight or run.

However, I think leaders have a third response; innovate. They roll with the punches. They make sure that they are prepared to deal with the bends that they’ll frequently come across.

A leader will at one time in their life come to a fork on the road. It will be a time to make a very deliberate choice. As you lead, you will be faced with three choices: fight, run or innovate [TweetMe].

To INNOVATE, a leader must make changes in something established, especially by introducing new methods, ideas, or products.  It calls for moving out of your comfort zone. To remind myself how important this is, I always tell myself to burn the box. This way, there is no “safe” haven for me to run back to, as that is the state that I need to move from, one that is restraining me from doing bigger things.

Innovation leans with the bend. When riding a motorbike, it is crucial that you learn to lean into the bend to smoothly navigate through it. If you fight the bend, both  you and the bike will most probably come out second-best.

The same applies to your leadership. You need to understand where your followers are at and guide them safely through the bend. Help them understand and embrace your vision. Inspire them to learn what is needed to achieve the vision. Then together, both leader and follower lean into the bend [TweetMe].

You may chose to RUN away from the challenge. If you keep on running, chances are that you may tire out at some point and drop dead. The challenge you were running from in the first place will have had you! When you become stubborn and refuse to change, you will face imminent death of your dream or cause.

FIGHTING may be the compromise between innovation and retreating. You may end up expending more energy and resources in this state. Why not invest the same in innovative action that may end up as a win anyway?

Your leadership is the driving seat to your destiny [TweetMe].

Will you innovate, run or fight? Please share your thoughts and let’s engage and grow together.

photo credit: Patrick Mayon via photopin cc

Board Chair • Certified Coach • Strategy Advisor • Communication Specialist • Authentic Leadership • Speaker

My mission is to co-create a world of hope, connection and excellence through coaching, leadership, strategy and thoughtful communication. Partnering with motivated but overwhelmed individuals and teams, I help you to regain your purpose to lead your personal (life) or business brand so you can effectively focus on building your growth and legacy.

As a Certified Professional Coach, International Coaching Federation Member, Clarity4D Accredited Business Partner, Strategic Planning Consultant and Communication & Branding Specialist, I bring over 23 years of unique experience and competence that enriches your portfolio and growth.

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Categories: LEADERSHIP, Lessons, Team
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11 thoughts on “Leaders Lean With the Bend”

  1. I love the motorcycling metaphor. A few more thoughts for taking the bend – (1) you’ve got to know your bike and how far you can push it (how sticky are your tyres, how much speed can you handle), (2) you’ve got to anticipate the bend (i.e. approach at correct speed and lean in early), (3) if there are two of you on the bike it helps if the guy on the back is on the same page and leans with you, (4) you’ve got to look through the bend and out the other side (maintain vision).

    Reply

  2. I love the motorcycling metaphor. A few more thoughts for taking the bend – (1) you’ve got to know your bike and how far you can push it (how sticky are your tyres, how much speed can you handle), (2) you’ve got to anticipate the bend (i.e. approach at correct speed and lean in early), (3) if there are two of you on the bike it helps if the guy on the back is on the same page and leans with you, (4) you’ve got to look through the bend and out the other side (maintain vision).

    Reply

  5. Nice post. One of our companies core values is: “Consider The 3rd Option”. We believe, outside of Jesus being the only way to heaven….there is always a third option. This post captures that.

    Reply

  6. Nice post. One of our companies core values is: “Consider The 3rd Option”. We believe, outside of Jesus being the only way to heaven….there is always a third option. This post captures that.

    Reply