By Richard Brody
The wisest leaders are those that realize that there are never any guarantees in leadership, and that even the best planned, perceived, conceived, and productive actions may still not accomplish what they are intended and hoped to do. Effective and meaningful leadership means eliminating any tendency towards prejudgment, remaining open to alternatives, planning for contingencies, being flexible in approach while maintaining essential goals, and the realization, as Yogi Berra was quoted as saying, "It's not over until it's over." We have all heard the variety of cute variations on the meaning of the word assume, but the most essential thing for any leader to realize is that they must understand that regardless of how well intentioned they may be, and even how good their ideas might be, it is essential to understand that leadership is a fluid and constantly adjusting circumstance, and only those that can lead in a fluid situation, are capable of wisely leading any organization.
1. Wise leadership is not about simply creating a plan, and then never adjusting to circumstances or changing conditions. There are always certain circumstances that do not go according to a preliminary plan, and it is the ability to adjust to contingencies that distinguish wise leaders from others. When planning is done effectively, it includes preparation for unexpected things, and creating multiple backup plans, in order to potentiate maximum readiness for any eventuality.
2. Far too often, individuals in positions of leadership create the greatest obstacle to their own success, because they begin by basing their plans on prejudgment and seem unwilling to accept and anticipate alternatives. These plans must be flexible enough to be able to adjust as necessary, while not sacrificing their ideals, long term vision or most important goals, etc. How does that leader handle the variations that occur throughout their tenure, and are they prepared, or do they become frustrated and inhibited by these changes? Wise leaders must possess the positive attitude and approach to consistently move forward, despite any eventuality that might present obstacles or challenges.
When a leader permits his assumptions to control his judgments and actions, he weakens his potential, creates more challenges than necessary, and wastes time in non- productive activities, rather than seamlessly moving forward with a backup plan when that course of action is called for. Perhaps this is one of the major factors that explain why so few leaders seem to exhibit consistent wisdom. If you wish to be a great leader, begin by expanding your comfort zone, be more willing to accept and anticipate obstacles and challenges, and act rather than merely reacting.
Richard has owned businesses, been a COO, CEO, and Director of Development, as well as a consultant. He has professionally run events, consulted to over a thousand leaders, and conducted personal development seminars, for over 30 years. Rich has written three books and well over a thousand articles. His company, PLAN2LEAD, LLC has an informative website http://plan2lead.net and Plan2lead can also be followed on Facebook http://Facebook.com/Plan2lead
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Brody
http://EzineArticles.com/?Wise-Leaders-Never-Assume&id=7869815
photo credit: Tony Fischer Photography via photopin cc
