I’m a big fan of Star Trek. Both the original and Next Gen series. What strikes me in both are the leadership lessons from both captains, Kirk and Picard. Lessons which
apply to business situations we all face.
Obviously each episode starts with some problem or incident.
So the first thing is to get clarity as to what’s going on. Is this a real issue and where does it sit given everything else they’re facing.
Then comprehend the magnitude of the issue. What’s really at stake. What would happen if they did nothing. What would happen if it was solved.
Then decide to take action – have a conviction that this is the right course of action. And finally, commitment – let’s do this.
So far, so good. So where does leadership come in?
In our businesses, often decisions are clear cut. But when they’re not, someone has to decide. And that needs to be you.
There’s an maxim:
“Leaders lead: “Thou Shalt Not Rule by Consensus.” Obeying this simple commandment reassures people that the leader is willing and able to make a tough decision.
Back to Star Trek. You’d notice each Captain would have a round table with his leadership team. They’d dissect the issue. Discuss pro’s and con’s of possible solutions, and then Kirk or Picard would make a decision.
It wasn’t always a popular one, they didn’t look for consensus. They made a decision and stuck with it.
And then everyone committed to it and took action.
One other thing that stands out is “Leadership can be a lonely place”.
Speaking with our business leaders clients they often lament there’s no one to turn to. They’re stressed and wonder if they’re doing the right thing, by themselves, their people and their organisations.
I know I’ve gone through this myself.
I’m lucky, I have Barbara, my wife and business partner to turn to.
Having said that, it’s also useful to have a non involved third party facilitator help you sort through your thoughts, giving you a sounding board.
As such, talk to me about our Focus & Strategy sessions where we work with you on your business. What you’re facing and where you want to get to.
We’ll help you create an implementation plan which will set you up for a great start to 2023.
Why do this now? Well, for many it’s a quite time in business and a great time to plan next year so you hit the ground running.
Give me a call on 0414 913 334 and we’ll set it up.
