In his recent blog post titled, “12 Ways to Know if You Are a Leader,” Michael Hyatt asserts that while he believes everybody has the potential to be a leader, not everyone is a leader.
Based on nearly 40 years of personal experience, I believe many healthcare ‘leaders,’ particularly those at the director, senior director and VP level, may have the potential to be true leaders, but lack personal leadership development. So how do you figure out who is really a leader?
Hyatt provides a thought-provoking list for self-reflection to help you determine if you are indeed a true leader. His list can also be applied to those in your organization who are also in positions of leadership. Upon close examination in light of the following list, are those ‘leaders’ in your healthcare organization really leaders?
- “You long to make a difference.
- You’re discontent and dissatisfied with the status quo.
- You’re not waiting on a bigger staff or more resources to accomplish your vision.
- Your dreams are so big they seem impossible.
- You acknowledge what is but inevitably ask, “What could be?”
- You realize that you don’t have to be in charge to have significant influence.
- You refuse to blame others for your circumstances and take responsibility for finding solutions.
- You foster unity by bringing people together and encouraging dialogue.
- You are quick to say, “I messed up. Here’s what I am going to do to fix the problem I created.”
- You value relationships more than tasks.
- You walk your talk—not perfectly but sincerely and intentionally.
- You are a learner. You read, listen to podcasts, attend conferences, and ask other leaders lots of questions.”
This list would provide excellent content for an open and transparent discussion with your leadership team! Are your “leaders” truly leading? It is your job to help them become truly effective leaders and to pursue leadership excellence!
Hyatt concluded his article by saying, “Leadership is not about experience, education, or talent. It’s about the choosing to lead. That’s where it begins.”
Choose to lead – choose to develop your ‘leaders’ into great leaders who consistently pursue leadership excellence – that’s leadership!
