Category: leadership

Not up to the task

FabrizioLeave a comment

So many of us do not feel up to the task. It’s a feeling that makes us shy away from achieving more, that makes us hide and retreat, that eventually feeds into a demotivating spiral from which it is difficult to escape.

But what is the task?

When we say we do not feel up to the task, we often refer to something ideal, some perfect outcome that we never really define. We imagine ourselves being in a position where we have everything under control, where we know everything, and where we can answer every question without fault and self-doubt.

The task is not that. Nobody in their sane mind would ask you to be up to that task.

The task is showing up and figuring it out as you go. Living and dealing with that kind of uncertainty and with that level of ignorance, while still being kind to others and willing to bring them along the way with you. Perhaps learning something from them and teaching them something.

It’s not an easy task, but it can be concrete and it is achievable.

So, if you feel like you are not up to the task, start by asking yourself what the task is. You might be relieved from a big stress.

Flat

FabrizioLeave a comment

A flat organization is an opportunity for employees to speak freely, to share their opinion, to make an impact.

A flat organization is not an excuse for managers to make jokes about employees, say whatever comes to their mind, pretend they are not in charge.

It’s a thin distinction, one that is good to remember often.

Magic

FabrizioLeave a comment

Have you ever waited for your turn to speak – and I mean truly waiting, not forming-the-next sentence-in-your-mind-while-waiting-for-the-other-to-slip waiting?

Have you ever given others the time to express themselves the way they want before correcting their annoying behaviour?

Have you ever wanted for others, sincerely, something you also wanted for yourself? Have you tried to help them achieve that rather than cutting their chances with petty complaints?

Have you ever just asked a question without immediately anticipating the answer?

If you have, you know it’s magic. And it’s just what the world needs more of.

Bold with decisions

FabrizioLeave a comment

You have made a decision, now be bold when sharing it.

Don’t look for excuses – as in we would not do it, but ..

Don’t give up the ownership – as in I did not agree, but ..

Don’t delay further – as in let’s try first, then ..

Don’t beat around the bush – as in let me tell you of all the reasons why ..

Don’t be smug about it – as in you’ll see the results this will bring ..

You have a decision, not many do that, go for it. Sure, you can change your mind later, consider new information, eventually go in a different direction. But for the time you are in the decision you have made, be bold and strong.

It’s a good part of making the decision a success.

Little and difficult

FabrizioLeave a comment

It’s incredible how little people need.

Attention.

Care.

Support.

It’s equally incredible how difficult it is to give that to them. Unconditionally.