What’s Your Kyrptonite?
We all have one
Everybody has weaknesses. Many of us get caught up by the same things over and over again. No matter how hard we try, whatever great intentions we have, a psychological muscle-memory kicks in and we find ourselves dealing with the same issues, in the same way, with the same tools. And we getgetting the same outcomes. The wisdom side of aging occurs at glacial speed while deep down we know we need to make some changes at a slightly faster pace. We need to ready ourselves for the triggers that bring on our less-than-desirable reactions. We don’t always have to be who we are pre-programmed to be. Growth is possible, change is required, and it’s much easier said than done.
We are all repeat offenders
For me, it was always assigning too much trust with too little oversight to new team members. A very close friend and work confidant used to admonish me (in his heavy NY accent), “why do you throw so-and-so the keys? They haven’t earned your trust!” In addition to new team members, those that had my trust in the past were not regularly re-checked. I was fortunate enough to have work friends who called me out for these repeated mistakes. I wasn’t a victim in my mistakes, I was a big part of the problem. I have to be more hyper-vigilant than I ever felt comfortable with, even today after 30 years in senior management and coaching.
We are all not supermen, superwomen, superpeople
Leaders at all levels, at home and at work, believe that responsibility comes with tools and the clarity to know what to do at all times. Not knowing what to do can feel like exposing your shortcomings to those around you. The weight of responsibility can be heavy, but feeling as though any of us are capable of knowing all the answers makes the weight overwhelming at times. There are times to step up and take command of the situation. The trick is to do that when you are equipped with the team, tools and data necessary to be successful. We all need to know what we can really bring to the situation, and where our teammates can step in.
We all know this pertains to us
Leaders don’t often let on to their shortcomings. We’ve been trained to do exactly the opposite. How many reviews and ratings have we received? How many training programs, leadership seminars have we attended? Even the most stubborn of us cannot possibly read and hear the feedback and suggestions, without that little voice in our heads telling us that the feedback might be correct and the suggestions and tools could really lead to better work. Though it’s hard to admit, we could all use a little push towards self-improvement.
We are aware we are not omnipotent
Well, maybe some of us are. Changing in a phone booth--or alone--is often difficult. Flying with only a cape is a tough task. We need to move from awareness to acknowledgement and eventually on to change. It doesn’t have to be lonely at the top. As leaders it’s time to act as part of the team rather than someone with all the responsibility. Our job in any organization is not higher or more important--it’s just another part of the team. Perhaps if we confided in others about our personal kryptonite’s we would have a better chance of success. After all, I’m no superman...