What Type of Leader Do You Want to Be?

2 May

As I write this, I am delivering one of my longer-term leadership development programs and we’re reflecting on what type of leader we want to be.

This question requires us to reflect not only on our skills as leaders, but at a core level, to reflect on our fundamental values and the significant responsibility we take on, in our leadership roles.

It's an excellent question to use to reflect on how we blend individual aspirations with the collective needs of colleagues and the workplace. As leaders or aspiring leaders, striking this balance is crucial in fostering a supportive, thriving work environment. If we are too much towards our own aspirations, we may become ego centred and at the other end of the spectrum, if we only prioritise being of service to others, we may end up being burnt out and overwhelmed.

Questioning the type of leader we want to be affirms that we have a choice about how we want to show up as leaders, that leadership is not totally determined by fixed attributes, but more through applying and developing our skills, insights, and self-awareness.

We certainly have a choice to be above-the-line, to operate in ways that enhance everyone’s capacity to function optimally, rather than be below-the-line, where we limit everyone’s capacity to function, through being uncivil, psychologically unsafe, and micromanaging.

Let's explore the facets of becoming the leader you want to be, the leader you can be, and the leader your workplace needs you to be.

The Leader I Aspire to Be

The envisioning of oneself as a leader often begins with ideals and values.

Do you see yourself as a visionary, steering your team towards a common goal with unwavering conviction? Or perhaps as a servant leader, prioritising the growth and well-being of your team members above all else? The desire to embody qualities such as empathy, resilience, and integrity is common among aspiring leaders. These aspirations are not just reflections of personal values but also of the above-the-line impact one wishes to have on others and the culture of a workplace.

However, it's essential to recognise that the aspiration to lead comes with the responsibility of self-reflection. Understanding your strengths and areas for growth enables you to develop a leadership style that is both effective and authentic. It's about asking yourself what values are non-negotiable and how these can be translated into actions that inspire and motivate.

The Leader I Can Be

The transition from aspiring to actual leadership involves a realistic assessment of one's capabilities, the limitations of the workplace or systems we work in, and how they align with our leadership roles and responsibilities. It's about acknowledging both your potential and your limitations. The leader you can be is grounded in self-awareness, recognising how your unique skills and experiences can influence and guide others.

Adapting your leadership style to be more inclusive, approachable, and adaptable is part of this evolution. It means being open to feedback, willing to learn, and ready to pivot when necessary. Embracing continuous professional and personal development is key to unlocking your full potential as a leader.

The Leader My Colleagues and Workplace Need Me to Be

Understanding the needs of your colleagues and workplace is pivotal in shaping the type of leader you become. Each work environment has its unique challenges and opportunities, requiring leaders to be flexible and responsive. The leader your workplace needs is one who listens actively, fosters collaboration, and creates a culture of trust and respect.

It involves being attuned to the dynamics of your team and the broader organisational goals. Are you leading in a way that promotes mental health and well-being? Are you encouraging a culture where everyone feels valued and heard? The most effective leaders are those who can balance the needs of the individual with the objectives of the organisation, promoting a sense of belonging and purpose.

In Conclusion

The journey to becoming the leader you want to be, can be, and your workplace needs is ongoing and multifaceted. It's about aligning your personal aspirations with the realities of your capabilities and the needs of your colleagues and the organisation.

By fostering a leadership style that is reflective, adaptive, and inclusive, you can create a positive impact that resonates at all levels of the workplace. Remember, leadership is not just about the position you hold but about the positive influence you can wield to inspire and uplift those around you.