We have all experienced "walls" in our lives.
This is truth for everyone who has challenged the process.
If we are growing, walls will spring up to slow us down and divert
our attention. Some are in front of us - raising their hands
waiting to be recognized and tackled. Others are behind us
- affecting our self-confidence and beliefs. Others are silent
- reaching out and subverting our progress at strategic times. Whatever
the situation, a wall's sole purpose is to be a "speed bump."
It is about "slowing you down so work doesn't change too much."
Comfort zones create complacency and resistance.
As leaders, how we handle the "walls" may be a
defining point in our careers and even in our lives.
Walls are difficult to climb. With sturdy foundations, walls
are tough to pick up and throw out of our way. They will not
carry on a dialogue with us. Walls provide no feedback.
In fact, they exist to slow us down or even derail us. No
deals, no compromises - just blood, sweat and tears and teachable
moments.
So, why do we become frustrated and lose focus
in these situations? Why do we let the walls encompass us?
Why do the walls often win? At International Leadership Associates,
we have noticed certain strategies in attacking walls:
- Just level it - Walls are built to
be leveled. It is in our way. It is causing a problem. We just
need to get rid of it. This approach requires nothing but
mindless action. We flail away at the problem with minimal success.
We act with no sense of purpose nor deep understanding of the
outcome. It is reactionary all the way. Just attack, attack, attack.
- It worked before - Sometimes, we assume
that all walls can be conquered with the same approach.
We stare at it and remember last year's plan. It should work
again. All walls are different. Fresh approaches are needed
and expected in today's business environment. Customers expect
new thinking from their business partners. Mindless action offers
no new approaches in solving problems.
- Delay, delay, delay - The wall is
in front of us, but it will go away. So, let's. The wall will
not shrink or disappear. It will become more menacing the longer
it is allowed to stand. Develop the plan and execute it. Do not
avoid the issue. Take away the impediments to success.
- Deny, deny, deny - We can conquer
this situation; but why should we? It really is not a problem.
But, we know it is. The wall creates a personal fear. We avoid
the struggle. The wall is to be engaged so that you can become
stronger.
So, as leaders, how should we address the walls
protruding from the landscape? Is there a formula?
Recognition saves time and energy.
Identify the "wall" you are confronted with. Why does it exist?
Have I created it through my behavior? Does my behavior allow
the walls to multiply and flourish? Is it becoming a recognized
liability to my leadership? During my years in line
management, I remember being hampered with my lack of recognition
of a "honest feedback wall." I was unable to pull the trigger
on brutal honesty about a direct report's performance issues.
The team's drive for results was stymied because I was not frank.
Through coaching, I came to recognize the wall and learned to talk
directly about performance.
With recognition comes the need for planning.
How am I going to attack the wall? What should my approach
be in removing the wall? Step back and think about it.
It is better to look at the problem from afar than with "your nose
pressed against it." Having the right perspective is
critical for successful planning. Step away and gain a clear
perspective of the problem. This will give you the confidence
to put an actionable plan together.
Be prepared for some ups and some downs.
Attacking a difficult wall will not always be a signature effort.
Moving sideways and backwards may provide the best solution
to removing the wall. The detours often are excellent learning
opportunities for future trouble spots. In fact, the true
satisfaction comes through the meandering - learning about
new places and ideas from different people. Growth through
meandering because of a wall - this is difficult for us to accept.
Take action! You have recognized,
planned and meandered. Now is the time to attack it.
Your confidence is up; you understand the actions it will take.
You have prepared. Now take it on. Throw procrastination
out; bring action in. Denial is dumped because recognition
has surfaced. Move forward and dismiss this wall from the
horizon. Allow it never to show up again! Not
to take action demonstrates a lack of confidence in self and the
support system around you.
Finally, encourage the heart!
You have tackled a major obstacle. It is no longer "your strait
jacket." An impediment to your success has withered on the
vine. It is no longer powerful and making you powerless.
You are enjoying a powerful moment. So, celebrate!!!
It is a WOW! Recognize the people who supported you though
the experience. Celebrate breaking down the wall. And
focus on "Letting all the Walls come down."
Imagine climbing a 40-foot wall. Recognize
that it is a tremendous obstacle for you. Treat it that way. Step
back and think about your plan. Understand that meandering
will help you gain information and find new pathways to success.
Attack the wall with all your fervor. Finally, celebrate
your success! It is a grand experience.
Copyright 2000 International Leadership
Associates |