Mind the Ice: The Hidden Secret to Long-Term Successful Leadership
why do only some leaders succeed?
Have you ever wondered why some leaders crash and burn while others thrive throughout their lives?
Leaders may look successful to others, but leaders are humans. That means leadership is not just about what is going on outside but also about what is happening internally.
And what happens internally can make or break a leader.
Let me explain by considering a winter activity — ice skating.
Leadership is like skating
When you start your leadership journey, you're inexperienced and still figuring things out. You skate lightly, not weighed down by many responsibilities.
Plus, since you’re new, people tend to cut you some slack if you slip up.
Too bad it doesn’t last.
As you advance in the ranks of leadership, you’re handed more weighty responsibilities. The pressure increases. And hopefully, the ice under you holds up.
Ideally, as you grow, so does your inner self. You become more self-aware, grounded in your values, and committed to your mission. With experience, your character strengthens, helping you navigate challenges. If you take it slow, the ice, your internal health, grows thicker.
Ahhhh, if only that were true!
The reality
Sometimes, external opportunities outpace internal growth. The leaders’ influence surpasses their ability to navigate the expectations.
Meanwhile, the ice is straining. It can hold a penguin, but not a leader carrying a thousand-pound weight.
We've seen it happen with celebrities—both young and old—who struggle under the weight of expectations and make poor choices.
And it’s not just celebrities whose ice cracks. It’s normal everyday people too.
The ice is too thin to carry the weight, and it breaks. (Cue “Blue Danube” waltz music as the leader falls through the ice in slow motion. Camera slowly pans left to right as penguins hurtle through the air and fish soar into the sky.)
Impact to leaders
Leaders, in particular, face tremendous pressures with responsibilities and public reputation. Leadership anxiety is a real thing. The toll is heavy when the inner life isn't nurtured.
Your inner character profoundly impacts your ability to endure long-term.
Values like integrity, humility, and courage are essential. The leaders I admire most consistently demonstrate these qualities.
These qualities don’t just happen randomly; they require intentional work, self-reflection, and honest voices in our lives, which thickens the ice over time
Sadly, many failures stem from a lack of these healthy internal character traits. When leaders skate too fast for their character to catch up, they're at risk.
Developing thicker ice
Pay as much attention to your inner life as much as you do to your outer leadership skills.
What you exercise externally exposes your internal state.
When a leader is under stress, it shows. You know when you are not at your best. And others know it too.
Want to develop and improve Your Organizational leadership, starting with yourself?
Contact us for a conversation on coaching/consulting to explore how you can develop!
I believe every leader needs a therapist, a coach, and wise advisors. Having trusted voices who love you enough to speak truth into your life with the intent to support your growth is a gift.
I feel blessed to have those kinds of people in my life. And for me, spending time in reflection and prayer allows me to see what kind of fruit is being developed in my life.
To last successfully to the end, you must cultivate your character and mindset.
So, take time to cultivate your inner life. Surround yourself with people who challenge you to grow. Focus on nurturing integrity, character, and patience. It's not just about personal growth; it's crucial for effective leadership and lasting success.
Skate at a pace that strengthens your inner self and your impact on the world. When you do, you'll thrive for the long haul!
Questions for Reflection
Your areas of development may be different than these qualities below, but these are potential questions for reflection:
🦁 Courage: In what areas do I need to demonstrate more courage in my leadership role? Am I avoiding necessary risks due to fear of failure?
💪 Resilience: How do I typically respond to adversity or setbacks? How can I better embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth?
🔄 Adaptability: Am I resistant to change, or do I embrace it as an opportunity for growth? How do I handle unexpected changes or disruptions in my work environment?
🛡️ Integrity: Do I consistently act in accordance with my values and principles? What principles enable me to handle ethical dilemmas or conflicts of interest?
🤲 Generosity: Am I willing to support and empower others, even if it means sacrificing my own interests? How do I demonstrate generosity in my interactions with colleagues and team members?
🌟 Empathy: How well do I understand the feelings and perspectives of those around me? How can I better actively listen to others and consider their needs and concerns?
🌺 Gratitude: What are regular and creative ways to acknowledge and thank others for their efforts and contributions? How does practicing gratitude impact my overall well-being and relationships?
🧠 Self-awareness: How well do I understand my own emotions, thoughts, and behaviors? How aware am I of how my actions and decisions impact others?
📚Continuous learning: What areas of knowledge or skills do I need to develop further? How can I incorporate learning into my daily routine and leadership practices?
