LEARNING FROM THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE UGLY

The first time I aspired to be a leader was when I didn’t see anyone on TV who looked like me. The next time I vowed to be a good leader was when I worked for managers who made me feel limited, unhappy, and micromanaged. And what helped me want to be a humble leader was when I observed the leaders I respect walk their talk with humility, integrity, and effectiveness.

Today, in the midst of COVID-19 I see leaders act, and react, from their egos. While I see others act with grace and empathy. These competing leadership styles have made me reflect on how we always have a choice when it comes to the type of leader we want to be.

With new graduates entering the workforce while unemployment rises, and everyone re-adjusting how we work, parent, and live, “How can we make sense of the good, the bad, and the ugly?”
Here are my thoughts:

While reading and hearing about poor leadership styles is disheartening, I hope these case studies help fuel the next generation to want to become better leaders. And I hope we come through this period with more companies that are community, culture, and people driven.

I hope COVID-19 reminds us why we need more leaders who are collaborative, creative, communicative, and empathetic.

Working under bad leadership, and a lack of representation, paved the way for me to define and strive for the type of leader I want to be. Becoming self-aware and making the decision to adapt is a personal one. It’s a decision only you can make.

Ask yourself, “What changes can I make, right now, in response to the good, the bad, and the ugly that is challenging or frustrating me?”