Leadership takes Courage.

Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumphing over it. Nelson Mandela

Leadership is a lifetime expedition more than a temporary location or destination. It takes determination and great courage to walk the path to the top of the mountain.

In the leadership classic Leadership on the Line, Ronald Heifetz and Marty Linsky shares valuable insights into the true reality of the risky life of the leader.

Here are three things the leader will encounter in life:

  1. Conformism. Leaders march to a different tune – Jonathan Sacks. There are always voices that will want to say, let’s stop here. We don’t have to go on. This spot has a nice view. Well, for a leader, it is okay to take a little break, but the leader’s view is not short term. It is focused on exploring the new unknowns and the unfamiliar territories. Learn to help people to transition from their current reality to the possible future reality.
  1. Blindsided pain. You are building your dream, and suddenly things take a turn for the worst. A colleague stabs you in the back. Your business partner takes half the business and starts their own venture. If you are in leadership you will bump your toe, head and sometimes even your entire body on the oncoming traffic of life. Learn to deal with the pain in a healthy manner, but don’t quite the expedition just because of one new scar.
  1. Lethargies towards Risk. You see the opportunity, you can taste the victory, but there is no appetite to go for it. What do you do? Learn to navigate the complexities of the risk, but don’t allow negativity to keep you back from taking that leap.

To navigate these elements resilience is key for a leader. Especially a reconciled past and emotional stability. In the midst of all the unknowns and unfamiliar territory, being at peace with our past will help us to face the current context. Being emotionally stable, creates courage and the ability to take the necessary risks.

Some reflective questions.

  1. What negative barriers are you encountering?
  2. What lessons have you learned from past barriers that can help you navigate your current context?
  3. How can you make sure you are at peace with your past and that have stable emotions?

In the midst of the fear, take a deep breath of courage and move forward into the unfamiliar.

Join the next webinar, 3 March 2021, on the Life Journey of the Leader. Register at info-sa@xpand.eu

Get your copy of the new e-book “Sailing into unknown waters”!

Sincere greetings,

Xpand South Africa Team

Empowering individuals and organizations to grow and fulfill their destiny.