The Meeting

I was in a scheduled meeting with an employee this morning. I felt pressed for time and anxious about the other commitments I had to complete outside this meeting. I was not focusing on the employee and her challenges and not leading and supporting her. Eventually, I caught myself. I realized that this employee needed more from me, starting with my attention. 

By thinking of other things, I could not listen to her and provide the support she needed to get through the challenges she was confronting. What is more important as a leader, getting things done or supporting those you lead? To me, it is both. Which one gets the focus depends on who or what is in front of you. 

For the meeting, it was the colleague in front of me, and she needed my attention more than I needed to complete my work at that meeting. After the meeting, I could focus on my other obligations. If I lose my focus and cannot stay in the “now,” nothing will get done, and I will not act as the leader I want to be.  

Focus on what is in front of you; you will do more than complete your checklist. Being a great leader means putting aside your list when you need to and always focusing on who or what is in front of you.

Just Be Better

Stay Healthy, Stay Strong.