5 Things I Have To Do, But Don’t Like Doing, as a Leader

I was reading a blog by Ron Edmondson, and found we have some things in common. Turns out, he has to deal with things he has to do as a leader, but doesn’t necessarily like to do. Have you ever had one of those occasions where duty calls, yet, you would rather just turn a deaf ear, but you know you can’t, because you’re a leader. Take heart my friend, for you are not alone!

A friend asked Ron once to name the things he does as a leader, because he has to, even if he doesn’t really like to. It is a great question. It causes us to think. There are actually lots of things we do, which we don’t enjoy doing. That’s likely what most of us call work. But, what do we as leaders “have” to do?

Here are 5 things we may have to do as a leader, but don’t always like to do:

Managing

Ron says he much prefers leading a vision to managing the process of accomplishing the vision. Like many of you, he loves big pictures, but stresses over details. Part of our role, however, as a leader is to make sure the vision is actually accomplished and not simply painted. Many people start with great ideas, but the reality is that few finish. Leading often starts very well. Managing effectively gets it done.

Correcting

Who wouldn’t rather receive the “Best Boss” award by being “Mr. Nice Guy?” Part of the leader’s responsibility, however, is to offer constructive criticism – and sometimes correction – so the team gets better and the organization continues to improve.

Patience

We know patience is a fruit of the Spirit, but it is the fruit many struggle with. We want accomplishment and likewise want it sooner rather than later. We have to recognize, however, fast is not always best and others on my team are wired differently from me for a reason. They balance me well.

Submitting

Would you rather not just have it your way? (Can you admit that?) The fact is, however, there are smarter people than us on our team about some issues and if things are only done the leader’s way, we will be limited to his or her strength and not the strength of the team.

Failing

We all like to win. Raise your hand if you love to lose! We want success and progress. It is how most leaders are wired, keeping us focused on accomplishing the vision through strategy and diligence. The fact remains, however, some of our greatest growth times in life and leadership have come through times of personal failure. We have to allow failure in our lives and in the life of our team in order to help us to learn ways to improve – through failing.