Our leadership relies on translating lessons from the past into actions in the present. The truths we have learned in the past and our behavior in the present shape our future.
We reflect on where we have been as we try to understand where we are going.
There are people whose leadership is rooted in their experience. The trauma they have witnessed or the regrets they have may make them hesitant to move forward. They may be focused on settling old scores or battling old demons. They may have an inflated sense of the family or the place in which they were raised.
Their leadership may emphasize continuing traditions. They may find change challenging.
Some people concentrate their energies in the present moment. Each day is a new adventure with them. They may lead without concerns about what has gone before or what could come next.
Their leadership can seem more reactive than responsive. They may not recognize the context in which they lead.
There are people whose leadership is all about the future. They may see themselves as visionaries who disregard the past and the present. They may be driven by anxiety about challenges they may face next. They may not pay attention to present concerns because they have faith in a promising future.
Their leadership might come across as impractical or unrealistic. They may not appreciate lessons that would pay dividends for them in the future.
We build our future with what we have learned from the past and practice in the present. We reflect on what has shaped us and put those lessons to work.
While we may not be able to predict the future, we shape it each day.
What is the future of your leadership?
Where will your leadership help us go?
[Image by krupp]
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