DISCIPLINES FOR BETTER LEADERSHIP

Disciplines for better leadership. – Parker Palmer

• Talk less, listen more

As leaders, we can feel like it’s our responsibility to talk: Meeting starts, everyone turns to the leader.

I’m known as a talker. But, I’ve learned the virtue of asking questions. Calling on those who haven’t spoken. Seeking opinions from those who I sense may not agree.

Assuming I know the answer because I’m the leader has gotten me into jams. Count on this truism: all of us are smarter than one of us.

• Be intentional about managing anger and frustration.

Anger and frustration are a cue to pause. When I look back on my worst moments as a leader, it’s been when anger or frustration caused an outburst on my part that I wished I could take back.

• Pause and calm your mind.

Impulsive responses will be less effective than thoughtful ones. Communication when things are cool are better than when things are hot.