As leaders we are not creating other great leaders. We are encouraging others to realize that they already have the potential to become great inside of them, and assisting them on that journey. Our job is to see where they can go and open the right doors for them to pass through. Our job is to focus on what is there – their strengths – and remove the focus on weakness – what is not there.
Michelangelo said, “A great statue already exists inside a block of stone. The sculptor’s role is to uncover it.”
If you want to achieve success as a leader, you have to intentionally focus your leadership efforts on unleashing the greatness inside of everyone you influence. Once your team knows you are committed to their success, they will commit to our vision.
In my book, The Leadership GPS, we read the story of Brian Alden, whose potential is unleashed by his grandfather. In turn, Brian opens the doors of success for his new team and many others.
Do you remember who recognized greatness in you? Who told you that you could be anything you set your mind to? Was it a parent, grandparent, teacher, coach, pastor, boss?
4 Responses to Great leaders look at people’s potential greatness
Joy November 11, 2013
I love this post. I remember the first manager who saw potential in me that I had not yet recognized. I learned a lot about leadership from him, and owe him for my growth and for who I am today. If he had not believed in me and given me the push that I needed, I may never have made the important first step into leadership. I should send him a copy of this boook, because he would love it!
Denis G. McLaughlin November 11, 2013
Thanks for your comment Joy. I also remember the first person who recognized my full potential. I think of that person often as I pass on his gift to others.
Brenda November 11, 2013
Joyce Anderson was the first manager who saw the potential and hired me for my first supervisor position years ago. Most days, I am thankful she saw in me what I still struggle to see in myself. This post reflects what I have been trying to do with the folks I lead. Find what they bring to the team and then find what they need to succeed.
Denis G. McLaughlin November 11, 2013
Brenda,
Thanks for your comment. Isn’t it wonderful to remember in thanks what others have done for us, and then to similarly help others? Based on your desire to help your team succeed, I would say Joyce was right.