Three Things Strong Leaders Do « Leadership Freak

Three Things Strong Leaders Do « Leadership Freak

Three Things Strong Leaders Do

By Dan Rockwell

Keep it simple:

Harry Kraemer explained in a world of complex challenges and opportunities strong leaders keep things simple. He made me think of something I love saying, “Any fool can make something complex. It takes real wisdom to simplify.”

Check out Harry's book

Simplicity isn’t easy so I was interested in Harry’s insights.

1. Simplify complexity by breaking things down into smaller components.
2. Determine what really needs to get done.
3. Decide which opportunities have the most potential and follow them.
4. Create alternative solutions and rank them.
5. Keep the team focused on real issues rather than speculations.

*****

Harry reminded me complexity
destroys passion and progress.

Start A.S.A.P.

Lily Tomlin said, “I always wondered why somebody doesn’t do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody.”

Harry explained that strong leaders:

1. Don’t wait for titles. They act now.
2. Uncover opportunities and issues without being told.
3. Don’t let the organization get in the way. Isn’t it sad that organizations frequently hinder rather than help progress? Harry explained that strong leaders skillfully work around organizational charts.
4. Say, “I’m going to do something.”
5. Convince others to do something.

Harry spent some time explaining that strong leaders reject command and control systems and convince others to act because, “it makes sense.”

“Stop trying to be right and start trying to do the right thing.”

Know leadership is a journey:

Harry explained that strong leaders don’t wait until they have it all together to lead. The more you learn the more you realize how much you need to learn. Act now and get better as you grow.