Focused Leadership
I have always been fascinated with the psychology of creativity and strategy and also how this extends to leadership. I once read (promptly printing and filing away for reference) an article from HBR written by Dr. Daniel Goleman in which he explores the tasks of leadership – primarily the task of directing attention. It is Goleman’s assertion that in order to direct the attention of others, you must first start by directing one’s own attention in three critical directions.
#1: Start With Yourself.
-
- Emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and self-control.
#2: Understand Others.
-
- Empathy. What do they need, how do they feel, and what is their perspective?
#3: Explore and Understand the World Around You.
-
- “Leaders with a strong outward focus are not only good listeners but also good questioners.” – Dr. Daniel Goleman
THE TRIAD
OF LEADERSHIP FOCUS
Real World Practice
Over the last decade or so, whether direct reports or peer leadership, the three areas of focus have either come naturally or been an intentional part of my style. I have had the most success with the first two areas in regular 1:1 meetings. This is the ultimate setting to do three things:
- Touch base on goals and progress
- Ask them what they think and how they are feeling
- Get feedback on my own performance. What can I do better?