Why does leadership seem so hard? Does it seem like people around us actively avoid this role?
YES.
Leadership is a learned quality. There are some who believe they’re born to it, but they don’t typically behave as a servant leader to those they serve. Most of us learn about leadership as our mentors learned from their mentors: through life experience and an occasional “trial by fire”.
Some “leaders” are really managers in disguise. These people don’t seem to have new ideas, or ways to innovate the current strategies for improvement. They usually work to avoid risk (as they define this word) so the outcomes remain unchanged, predictable.
Leaders tend to explore ideas, strategies, and may even combine thoughts to learn what the potential outcomes might spring forth. These people aren’t afraid of risk; they embrace it as a path of change. All opinions are welcomed; no opinions are silenced. Change can be positive or negative, and leaders want to see both sides.
How?
They poke the bear.
What’s The “Bear”?
By one definition on MerriamWebster.com, the “bear” is something difficult to either do or deal with. This can also translate to a person being someone difficult to deal with. While literally poking a bear isn’t recommended, in this case it’s meant as a challenge.
Poking the bear can mean to challenge either a proposed solution, thought, or norm. For example, if the norm is to cross the street during busy rush-hour traffic, poking the bear can mean to find another solution that gets you across the street more safely.
Some ways to poke the bear could include:
- “Whatabouts”. Literally asking, “What about this/that ____?” Asking a question like this can seem very aggressive and somewhat emotional, so keep an ear to your tone.
- “Have you considered ____?” This seeks more middle ground while making sure every possible solution and outcome has been explored and discussed.
- “I have a suggestion.” This route is more permission-seeking, so it pays to read the room before offering.
Remember, bringing up a potential snag or solution doesn’t necessarily mean you’re smarter; it means your train of thought hasn’t been openly voiced yet.
Conclusion
Sometimes accepting the norms is okay. When it’s not, poke the bear. Innovate often. Do this for the sake of learning leadership: balanced and unafraid.
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