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Humbling Yet Liberating
Most leadership problems are common. Everyone must tackle these same or similar problems in order to be successful. Leadership is the solution.
Leadership Challenges are Alike
At Echelon Front, we work with client companies and organizations in just about every industry. And we consistently hear the same or very similar things from different leaders: people think their problems are unique.
“We have a real shortage of good people in this industry.”
Reality:
There is a shortage of good people in every industry.
“You have no idea the massive egos we have to deal with in this line of work.”
Reality
Anywhere there are humans, there are ego issues that generate problems
“You don’t know the amount of bureaucracy we have to navigate in this organization.”
Reality
Nothing rivals the bureaucracy of the U.S. military and the Department of Defense
Most leadership problems are common. Everyone must tackle these same or similar problems in order to be successful. Leadership is the solution.
The Greatest Excuse
The greatest excuse we give ourselves is to think: “It’s harder for me than it is for other people.”
But there are always those who have it more difficult, yet they find a way to overcome it. You can overcome it too.
Once you recognize and accept this, you can take ownership and implement a solution.
Real-World example:
‘What did you learn?” I asked the CEO of a construction company. He had attended our Extreme Ownership Muster, a 2-day leadership conference that brings leaders together from different levels of leadership. With companies large and small across dozens of industries in the business world, as well as first responders, military personnel, leaders in education, and non-profits, the Muster has diverse attendees.
“I learned everyone has the same challenges,” the CEO answered. He’d come to understand that his company’s challenges and problems weren’t unique. At the Muster, the CEO had been involved with the small group exercises called Fire Teams, heard questions during Q&A, and had various interactions with others. He’d learned that the vice president of a financial firm, a hospital executive, a captain in the fire service, a pastor, and a school superintendent were dealing with similar leadership challenges. They exchanged ideas and helped each other develop effective solutions.
“That’s the greatest excuse we give ourselves,” I replied. “It’s harder for me than it is for other people. But once you realize that isn’t true, you can take Extreme Ownership and solve those problems.”
For Action:
This week, examine where you have been leaning on the excuse that your problems are unique. Are there other teams, companies, or organizations with the same or similar challenges who have overcome them and achieved success? Take ownership and develop a solution. Then, IMPLEMENT.
