I Want To Start a Movement: What We Really Want From Leaders

As I lead this organization through the pandemic, I know that I do not lead alone. I have the “7:30 Twenty” along with me; they are the people who have been meeting anywhere from 6–14 hours a week, depending on what we need to understand and to organize. Then there are the rest of the leaders, the 1,980 staff who lead in one way or another.

Leadership is oftentimes associated with certain titles, but in reality, the word “lead” is a just verb that conveys action, and everyone does it. I read a book a year ago that described leadership in a different way. It said, “Everyone is a role model, just not always a model you should copy.” That’s very true in leadership; sometimes you get the title, and then you don’t do the work.

Leadership is a set of actions; while you do it, you subject yourself — as a person in the light — to both respect and criticism, and you should discern both. Consider these scenarios and leadership stances. Which one resonates with you?

Scenario One: When the problem is new and has never been solved.

— A leader is direct; they will tell you exactly what to do and when, and they are confident that he or she knows best.

— A leader points out the needs, makes sure that you have the tools, and supports you to figure it out independently.

Scenario Two: When the information is confusing, conflicting, and stressful — and something needs to be done.

— A leader reassures you that everything will be fine and to just wait a little longer for the answer.

— A leader tells you what is clear about the information, helps you figure out how to assess the choices, and take a stand to make something happen.

Scenario Three: When something isn’t the best practice anymore, and the change will be hard.

— A leader will avoid rushing, better to create a temporary fix, then let the next person bring out the bad news about change.

— A leader will reveal what isn’t right, will support you to create the change, and will acknowledge the stress that change brings to everyone.

Leading is a hard work, and we all do it in some capacity or situation. What kind of leader are you? What kind do you want to be? And what do you expect of leaders at KenCrest?

I am very clear about my stance on leadership. As my new series of blogs unfold, I will share it with you, and I hope that one day you will tell me about yours. We all know at the end of the day, people judge us by our actions. Make sure they are impactful in the best ways possible.