ANSWERS Archives - Wheeler Coaching Systems

“We need to curb our egos and ask questions, even at the risk of looking foolish.” John C. Maxwell

Have you ever sensed you needed to ask a question but were concerned about looking foolish? During difficult times we may think we must have all the answers as the leader but is that necessarily true? I was curious about this so I asked one of my mentors that I have access to through The John Maxwell Team.

I have the opportunity to learn from multiple mentors as a part of The John Maxwell Team. Recently I was on a question and answer call and asked Mark Cole, CEO of the John Maxwell enterprise a question. My question was not profound, but rather simple. . . . I asked him what questions he is asking himself as a leader. I want to share his answer with you to stimulate your leadership thinking.

How do I balance business dynamics with value dynamics?

In our present environment this is a unique challenge. I still need to grow my business and provide for my family, but how do I do this in a manner that adds value and is sensitive to the present individual and organizational economic realities? No matter your business you want to add value to people and provide a service or product that meets a relevant need, but must be profitable to continue to provide that service or product. What are you doing right now to balance these dynamics?

Am I operating in fear?

When we are in crisis a couple possible motives can drive us: fear or hope. Fear can cause us to make decisions that can increase our anxiety and the anxiety of those we lead. I find when I am operating in fear, I also try to control I cannot and put people as a lower priority. This desire for control and fear need to be replaced with trust and faith that as I do the right thing my decisions will be clearer and I will consider people first.

When can I begin to see the future?

In a time of great uncertainty such as we are presently experiencing this question is difficult to answer. As leaders we want to see more and see it before others so we can keep our team and organization moving forward. Right now, in light of so many uncertainties thinking too far ahead may not serve the organization well, so he has asked his key leaders for a 75 day plan. When the time is right, he will be able to look even farther. As many leaders are doing right now he too is figuring out how to lead while being personally mentored by John Maxwell through the process.

I realize this post did not give you concrete solutions, but my goal was to help you think into your leadership. You want to be a great leader and that requires asking great questions as no effective leader has all the answers. If you need a thinking partner to help you think into your leadership during this time contact me for a 30-minute thinking partner session at no cost. Lead Well.