Obviously by the time frame since the last post, I took a break from blogging. Thanks to those of you who continue to visit everyday. I have missed interacting with you all and have been eager to return with a post or two each week. This recent cartoon was the trigger to come back to you all. I have never been an avid reader of the comic section of newspapers and periodicals, however,I noticed this one last week and it was excellent. I tired to snap a picture of it from my phone. Click on the clipping it to see it clearly. If it is not clear, here is what it portrays:
You have a suit from the auto industry coming to visit Santa Claus. He tells Santa, "I tell'ya what I want. Whatever it is that the Japanese Automakers have." To which Santa replies (this is my favorite part...."No unions, vision,patience, green innovation, smart and nimble leadership and a strong culture of honor and shame."
The suit from the auto industry offers a final thought and request by saying "I'll take cash."
Perhaps we can all learn from Santa's leadership mindset because in this case and all others, it is accurate. The leadership lesson in this little fable is the reality that too many people do not want to do endure the daily disciplines of leadership.
My thought to you however is not in relation to Santa's advice, it is in relation to our sense of humor. I am learning that a sense of humor in leadership is a necessary quality to be had. I am realizing this more and more during my own absence of it. I have fortunately caught myself getting too serious for long periods of time. A mood of staunch seriousness cramps my ability to see the best and lead others to it. Not having a sense of humor and neglecting to laugh out loud at myself ultimately hurts the organization and worse than all - brings a poor mood into my home.
I am finding that the simple act of cracking a joke or finding the funny in a situation has helped me and those around me.
This is not a call to be a joker when it is time to be very serious, but if you look for opportunities to calm yourself or a situation with humor - you will lead yourself and your teams better. You will be more approachable and authentic when you can have a laugh.
The magical leaders are the ones who learn the formula of the perfect balance in this. I am trying....
Comments