True leaders thrive on feedback. Without feedback they don’t get a good sense of what they are doing well – or not so well – which is essential not only for their own development, but for that of the people they work with.
Recently, an overwhelmed project leader with over 100 staff reporting to her came to me seeking guidance around better time and energy management. She explained that she was paralyzed with endless and inefficient meetings, and unable to set boundaries.
In her coaching sessions with me she soon realized that she was spreading herself too thin, trying to be everywhere for everyone, instead of focusing on what she really needed to do – see the big picture and strategize as the leader that she was.
The feedback was: in order for her to be an effective leader something had to give. FOMO was not an option!
Once the realization and feedback had sunk in she was able to lay out a plan for her professional development, which included:
– Identifying priorities
– Setting clear boundaries and saying ‘no’ to time-consuming and useless tasks
– Using a time-energy calendar
– Delegating tasks to others
– Requesting synopses of communication
– Running meetings more efficiently
In the end, our leader felt she’d regained control over her calendar, her work and even her family life. She was able to assertively set boundaries and communicate priorities to the people she served in order to do the work she really loved, which was to strategize.
Constructive feedback is essential for leaders, especially when it’s accepted and applied towards meaningful and sustainable development. In the end, it’s all about being honest and authentic, the best catalyst for change.
To find out more about how you can become a more compelling leader by creating a solid developmental plan please contact me at:
Or click here
