I live in a state where the weather is as unpredictable as it comes! One day it can be sunny, 81 degrees and beautiful with the flowers beginning to spring forth, and the next, snowing, cold, and windy, with the flowers begging for mercy. Then, of course, the next day is sunny and beautiful again! For someone who grew up in a climate that virtually never changed, this has been quite the adjustment. It’s not that I don’t like the variety, it just makes someone who likes to plan ahead (me) a little frustrated when grand plans are disrupted. People tease me about the fact that I don’t particularly like snow. It’s not that I don’t think it’s pretty from time to time or that I don’t understand the need for it to prepare the soil for my beloved flowers; it’s that it gets in my way! I’m a doer, and when I can’t do, I don’t like it!
However, complaining about the weather is really not the purpose of this week’s blog! Actually I want to use it as an example of how leaders have to be ready for anything, especially when their plans get interrupted by something over which they have no control. I’ve learned over the past five years that since I cannot plan on the weather cooperating with me, I must have a plan B, C and beyond ready to go. In my car are usually several different levels of outerwear. I’m ready for the beauty of spring, but also the chill of winter at least half of the year. Even in the summer, it’s crazy here, because a storm can roll in, dump a tremendous amount of water, then roll out quickly as if it never was, so, the rain gear is a must. Sorry, I’m back to complaining about the weather. Back on topic.
Leaders must take the same approach to leading, particularly when their main task is dealing with people. People are as unpredictable as the weather. Some days are sunny and warm, others, cold and windy (someone just came into your mind, didn’t it?!). As leaders we have to be ready to deal with people in whatever season they happen to be. We must be prepared for storm or sun, and we must be the stabilizing force in the relationship. You’ve heard me talk about before the need for leaders to be consistent when dealing with people. We must be the same leader each and every time they see us, because they need this for their own sense of security. Sometimes people’s lives are so unpredictable, even chaotic, that they are desperately looking for someone or some group to help them keep their feet on the ground and their head from spinning. As leaders, we can do that for them.
I recently came across an article by Stephen Denning discussing a concept called AGILE which many businesses are adopting. In a nutshell, it takes a short-term view of most opportunities and works to keep their companies focused on innovation, flexibility, and the ability to act quickly when a new opportunity presents itself. It does away with much of the bureaucratic processes which slow down development and encourages teams to work collaboratively to get things done as quickly as they can. They don’t allow a lack of communication, bias or red tape to hinder their ability to act. They remain open, creative and agile, which is a great way to stay ahead of our constantly changing culture. When the weather changes, agile leaders change with it. Storm? Get your jacket. Sun? Grab your lotion. Snow? (well, other than complaining for a moment) grab your heavy coat, but be prepared to shed it soon because you know the climate will change again.
Let’s work on being “agile” leaders. Things are changing rapidly, just like the weather.
Lead well.