Learning to Lead? You Must Do These 3 Things.

We often think leaders are born that way. People either have it, or they don’t.

But, don’t start feeling sorry for yourself if you don’t possess those innate leadership traits. For most of us, leadership is a craft that we must learn and train; and to do so, you must do these 3 things.

1. Experiment.

Throughout my training to be a military officer, I would participate in Leadership Labs. In these labs, officer trainees learn and experiment with different leadership styles, approaches, and techniques.

We would test our leadership using different decision-making processes, communication methods, motivation tools, and approaches to delivering feedback.

Unfortunately, we don’t all have a controlled environment in which to experiment. However, you should still read-up on different leadership techniques and seek out opportunities in which to try them.

Don’t be afraid to experiment in your next staff meeting, practice, or one-on-one.

2. Reflect.

After your experiment, take the time to think about and reflect on your style, approach, and technique.

What worked, what did not work? Were you comfortable? How did your team respond? When and where did you adapt your approach? Did you achieve the desired outcome? Did you enjoy the experiment?

These are just a few questions you can ask yourself. Be honest when reflecting on your leadership experiment.

3. Discover.

I was reading my daughter an Eric Carle book about a tortoise that decides to leave his large, heavy shell because he wants to move faster. The tortoise then embarked on a journey. Although he was faster, he was also more vulnerable. The tortoise discovered that his shell was his strength and that without it he was uncomfortable.

Like the tortoise, you have tried something new. Be purposeful in learning and growing from your experiment and reflection, even if it is realizing you like the comfort of your shell.

Through discovery, you will develop your personal leadership profile. You will learn how to leverage your strengths, manage your weaknesses, identify areas for improvement, and focus on when and where you are the most effective and vulnerable. You will also discover when and where you find the most enjoyment while leading.

If you are learning to lead, then you must remember: Don’t be afraid to experiment. Take the time to reflect. Be purposeful in self-discovery.