Monday, October 8, 2007

SETTLING IN LEADERS

It seems to me that there are two types of leaders: Those who “Settle” in or those who “Set” out. I will share eleven characteristics of a “settling” in leader. In a future blog I will highlight the characteristics of a “setting” out leader.

Generally, a “settling” in leader, well, settles in. They are complacent. They have lost their edge. They appear effective. They show up for their duties. They do their job. Their inactivity appears to be activity. There is a tendency to define effectiveness as showing up and being busy.

A “settling” in leader is characterized by:

Desire for the status quo
Maintains the organization
Protects turf
Makes decisions of least resistance
Interest is for present generation, not future generations
Lacks innovation
Believes if something isn’t broken, don’t fix it
Never asks, “What if?”
Structure informs mission and vision
Management is valued more than leadership
Consensus dictates direction

Are you a leader? Are you settling in? What might you do to unsettle yourself?

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