Leaders are like anyone else in the sense that they are human and imperfect. Some leaders are impatient, others are too critical or non-confrontational. Everyone has places where they could use some help.
How do you overcome your leadership shortcomings?
The first thing you need to do is identify your weaknesses. Do you have trouble articulating what you want; are you easily overwhelmed, or just not into details? That’s okay! When you know your weak spots, they are easier to address.
For some leaders, their biggest strength is also their biggest weakness. For instance, you may be very passionate; however, when it comes to working with a team, you come across so passionate that people don’t feel comfortable disagreeing with you. Or perhaps you are very creative and you’re always coming up with new ideas, yet you have trouble completing them because you’re constantly itching to move to the next thing. Is this the case with you?
Once you’ve identified your weaknesses, use these two tools to help you manage them:
When it comes to your leadership, it’s important to examine yourself across all areas, focusing on the spots that need the most help. Know what your tendencies are. When you can catch yourself operating out of weakness, you’re more able correct it.
Sometimes it can be difficult to know when you’re operating out of weakness. Inviting others to speak up when you default will give you more insight, and you’ll learn how to recognize and avoid those behaviors.
One of the hardest things you’ll do as leader is owning up to your shortcomings. But it’s worth it because humbly recognizing you’re not perfect, and working hard to become a better leader, will make you a leader others want to follow.
If you want to learn more about how to overcome your weaknesses, visit DavidNovakLeadership.com and check out Jason Goldsmith’s podcast to learn how he coaches top rated golfers to manage their weak spots.
