I’ve been enjoying some fine weather and sitting in the garden. Usually when I’m in the garden I’m distracted by something. Maybe I’m writing, playing, cooking, or even occasionally, gardening. But this weekend, I’ve spent some time sitting there. Really being there. As a result I began to notice things, see thing a little differently. I made three new friends.
Inachis io, aka Peacock
Celastrina argiolus, aka Holly Blue
Anthocharis cardamines, aka Orange Tip
Two of these butterflies, the Holly Blue and Orange Tip are tiny. I wouldn’t normally spot them, let alone take the time to identify and photograph them. I’m glad I did. My heightened awareness over just a brief period has increased my enjoyment of the garden and what it has to offer. I’m glad I spent time, just being there.
Too often I see people in meetings, in conversation, or listening. But they’re not really there. Their mind is on where they are going next, what they are going to say next. They are not in the moment. And it shows. You know when you’ve spent time with someone who is only there in body, and it’s not very engaging. It’s not good leadership. Two of the useful leadership qualities observed by Jonathan Wilson are:
Leaders learn to listen extraordinarily well with genuine interest and respect.
Leaders engender a sustained sense of enthusiasm and make people feel they are very important.
You can only practice these qualities, by being there. Your presence isn’t enough. Be there. Be aware.
I have been reading Marshall Goldsmiths book – what got you here won’t get you there and it is reinforces the need for senior managers to listen and be there . Many other very valid points are made about relationship and interepersonal skills – Listen , show understanding , be supportive and basically avoid being a jerk. Expressing an opinion just because your are the boss is something I observe a lot and try very hard to avoid
In summary the quotes you refer to from Jonathan Wells are along similar lines yet they need to be made time and time again
I aspire to an inspirational leader and as a tranformation lead I am duty bound to inspire and support –
Rgds
Derek
Hello Derek, I’m delighted that you popped by thanks very much. I will add the book to my reading list. I wish you jerk free leadership!
Folks,
Another related book which I found good is “The Power of Now” by Elkhard Toole. (Name spelling may miss a letter or two) I am out of town and do not have the book with me.
Its a great book – check it out.
Thanks for popping by and sharing with us Deva. In case other folk want to track down the book Deva mentioned, the writer’s name is Eckhart Tolle.