Thursday, March 18, 2010

Leadership for the scholar in you











LEARN IN ORDER TO LEAD

People who desire to lead their lives must be able to learn from life. I believe that the most effective leaders are also the most effective learners. I have this perspective on leadership because I have been a student for the last 23 years of my life. From my experience, I am equipped to learn a living and in turn lead my life. In this blog, I will share lessons that I’ve learned about how to be an effective learner and leader.



THE LEARNING PROCESS

Effective leadership is a leaning process. Viewing it with this mindset enables leaders to digest failure and transform it into fuel for future success. Leaders who are effective learners are flexible. They have conviction and confidence in the face of failures and setbacks. They see advantage in times of adversity. That means they transform obstacles into learning opportunities to grow from. Plus, effective leaders are progressive, always moving forward in mind and in practice. Their ideas and strategies are fresh and cutting edge. They are not afraid to learn new strategies, new ways of thinking, or new perspectives. Leaders have become effective learners by putting their ideas into action, being open to feedback, and observing their progress.



LEARNING from FEEDBACK

Don't take it personally. Feedback is a necessary part of the learning process. Listening to it and using it will help you learn as you lead. Feedback from other people provides valuable perspective. Considering their feedback will help you remain open and break through your old, limited perspectives. But as they say, experience is the best teacher. Give yourself feedback by reflecting on your experiences. This will provide you with first-hand evidence about the effectiveness of your actions. Your body can also teach you quite a bit. Listening to signals from your body (heart rate changes, gut feelings, emotional reactions) will help you hone your inner compass. Ultimately, learning from feedback will help you progress, grow, and navigate changing terrains.




Being effective learners enables leaders to progress in a fast-paced world. Learn from your life to lead it.


by Kevin Bickart

e: kbickart@goibelieve.com

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