We are in a series discussing and learning from the recently published book titled Great Leaders Grow: Becoming a Leader for Life. The book, authored by Ken Blanchard and Mark Miller, is available wherever best selling books are sold. The book is directly applicable to any person who desires to become a more effective healthcare leader.
Debbie, Blake’s mentor, continues to provide Blake with excellent concepts, perspectives, and suggestions regarding how Blake can best grow as a leader. In this conversation, Debbie states: “You will add much more value as a leader if you open up and expand your world with leadership experiences and life experiences.” She goes on to say, “You need to be on the lookout for experiences inside and outside work that will make you a better leader over time.”
Debbie explains that a leader’s life is like an artist’s palette. The more colors you place on the palate before you begin painting, the more potential not only for more colors in the painting, but also far more potential for all kinds of important combinations such as contrast, diversity, shading, blending and other unique and value-added possibilities.
Debbie explains that the same is true for a leader; “The more colors you have, the more likely you are to create a masterpiece – in life and at work.”
Debbie concludes by saying, “I suggest that if you want to grow as a leader, in addition to Gaining Knowledge and Reaching Out to Others, you also have to Open your World.”
______________________________________________________________________________
The book’s authors conclude this chapter with excellent and specific examples regarding “How to Open Your World at Work,” and “How to Open Your World Outside Work.”
If you are truly interested and committed to growing as a leader, I highly recommend that you read the chapter titled “Opening Your World.” You will find excellent food for thought – and action!
