Leadership

As our region grows and we plan for achievement of greater potential, we will rely heavily on community builders to show the way – form plans, build foundations, assemble teams.  So what is the difference between leaders and managers?  Each has a valuable role and yet each role is very distinct, and no dream is successfully realized without a leader.

Contemplate a public meeting where the community has gathered to share information whether or not to begin a daunting new challenge – something that could change the face of the community and how it functions and succeeds into the future.  This challenge may be construction of a new arena or the transition of ownership of a major property. 

During this meeting, many ideas and perspectives are shared.  Pros and cons are weighed.  Facts are presented and feasibility is weighed.  Leaders among the group are listening and a vision is forming.  They are sitting among the group, reflecting on previous endeavors and drawing on the experiences gained through mistakes made and obstacles overcome.  They are measuring the comments and evaluating the common goals – a dream is at stake and the leaders are identifying the risk.  Can the people involved accomplish the dream?  One of the leaders will rise to speak, and the room will recognize the community builder as one who will have the answer, waiting for the inspiration and motivation that will be released,  the unifying message that will be delivered with emotion and sincerity.  The group sees the vision clearly and understands the importance of moving forward as one, trusting in each other and believing in the dream.

We have these leaders in our community.  They work alongside the team and never see themselves as being part of a hierarchy.  They encourage and listen to input and value a broad range of ideas.  They share the load and are always fostering teamwork, identifying training opportunities or outside expertise where necessary.  Everyone involved in the project works tirelessly toward a common goal and is internally motivated rather than by external benefits.  

The evolution from managing to leading is possible within each of us.  Look inward, understand your fears and accept there may be risks.  If you have the ability to dream of greatness, you have the ability to lead.  Transformational leadership consists of a vision and a passion.  The process of developing your vision, selling your vision and leading the way will require enthusiasm – once distributed among the group, your enthusiasm will generate all the planning and action components that are required to find your way forward.  Lead the charge.  Lead change.