I often suggest to clients that they “collect” attributes of leaders who inspire them. Over time they create a composite leader profile, one which incorporates the best aspects of who they aspire to be.
I added to my own collection as I read and listened to the stories about Coach Pat Summitt, who died earlier this week. She began coaching when she was 22 years old and had an illustrious career as head coach of the Tennessee Lady Vols. She never had a losing season and had 1,098 wins, the most of any NCAA Division I basketball coach (man or woman) in history.
She was an intense person and commented that she always felt that intensity could bring out the best in anyone. Her toughness, competitiveness, and intention to win were consistently conveyed to her players.
Obviously] she had an amazing career, and one of the things that struck me was the consistency of her actions, her intentions, and her determination.
Consistency is important essential for good leadership. The people who follow you look for clues, whether consciously or unconsciously. If you’re an erratic leader, they don’t know what to expect or how to follow well.
Think about what you can do to demonstrate more consistency in your leadership capacity. You need to do what you say you’re going to do and mean it. If you have a habit of starting new initiatives, for example, but don’t follow through, your staff won’t take you seriously the next time you introduce another one.
How do you become more consistent? Practice! Pick one thing you’d like to focus on and give it your attention for the next month. If you’re really consistent, by the end of a month, it should feel like a new habit.
Have a great week!
