RIP 2011 (Reflect, Inspect, Project)

“Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.” ~ Peter F. Drucker, American Educator and Writer, b.1909

As we wrap up the wonderfully active and interesting year of 2011, please ensure you are not just passing the days and nights in hopes of a better tomorrow or next year. At the same time, let’s not get caught in the afterglow of what was.

During the last portion of an experience, project, or yes, even a year, it is well-serving to schedule time to do what I call Reflect, Inspect and Project (RIP).

As you work through the RIP process, allow time (and discussion if including others) on the past experience, project or year by sharing 1st REFLECT on what were the highlights, then what were the low-lights, and also, how to avoid the low-lights in the future while creating more highlights. This is where you can have 20/20 hindsight for the past. 2nd, INSPECT where you are right now, and if there is anything left undone or unseen, not communicated, or somehow vague. This is where you really look at the present. 3rd, PROJECT by looking ahead in weekly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annual time tables. Decide what you want to do, by/with whom, for what reason, and note how you will measure success. This is your look to the future.

As simple as it may seem, by touring the past, present and the future through reflection, inspection and projection, you can often appreciate what you have, finish what you started, and get energized and focused on what is to come.

Thank you for an amazing and enjoyable 2011…here’s to much more in 2012!

10 Times the Leadership!

"Not the cry, but the flight of the wild duck, leads the flock to fly and follow."
~Chinese Saying~

While there are many lists and ideas about leadership, after speaking with a wonderful and talented client about leading during a one-on-one coaching session, I left and really reflected on what we covered, and consolidated the ideas I shared into my ten (perhaps top 10, and definitely current 10) strengths of an effective leader. The list includes (minimally) the ability to:

Envision - Seeing things for what they are and where they can go.

Observe - Looking at things with little bias and an open mind.

Inquire - Asking of others for input, observations, really listen and hear what is being said for feedback without repercussions to the person.

Care - Wanting to know about the people, the teams, the clients/customer and opportunities earned...and missed.

Cheer - Letting someone know he or she can do it. At times, just taking off the title and being a supportive person.

Coach - Being willing and able to meet people where they are and assist them in getting successfully where they are willing and able to go.

Show & Tell - Demonstrating and informing the team of what is behind, in front of and on the horizon for the company/group, and being willing to lead the way in words and actions. These are forms of effective communication.

Reflect - Making time and take time to consider competition, client desires, team interests and what to make of them and how the wins can be developed, and not just expected or taken.

Grow - Knowing others often have the answers and humility and pride can work hand-in-glove when learning and what serves well is top of mind. Being able to own decisions and seize opportunities for self and others.

Share - Being selfish enough to want the best and selfless enough to let others be a part of it. Knowing there is not just one leader, regardless of titles, and that results, victories and overall success in an effort of more than one. Sharing the opportunities and sharing of yourself by giving back in ways that work for you!

How are you, and your fellow leaders doing on these 10 traits? It's okay, be proud of what you are doing, and hone in on those areas where you'd like to see improvement...after all, you are a life-long learner if you are a true leader of self and others!