If there was one problem that I see with leadership today, it is by far the reliance on comfort. If we aren’t careful, a comfortable approach to leadership will be our default and that will limit just about every potential leadership has.
Leaders are never forged in times of peace but rather, in times of chaos. I was so bothered by the comfortable approach to leadership, I wrote a book on it. While that process may have given me an outlet to express my frustration, there is much more to do and we have expanded our training to offer specific seminars on this issue.
Cowardice Manifested
Ultimately, we choose comfort because it is easy and it will never threaten our status. In fact, there are tons of police chiefs that have never gotten outside their comfort zone.
They never delve into controversy because they never deviate from the popular opinion of the masses. Whether it’s the latest ridiculous demand from an activist or the feel good words of the latest failed police reform idea, there isn’t a popular issue or virtue signaling “proclamation” they haven’t signed on to.
You likely know exactly who I’m talking about and you don’t follow them because they are leaders. You do what they say because they are your boss…There’s a huge difference.
The Choice Is Yours
The greatest leaders understand that significance changes the world (or at least your organization). These leaders understand that their time and energy must be in pursuit of a significance that doesn’t just manage others but inspires them at a level few could ever dream of.
To determine your significant path, ask yourself this question:
If I had unlimited resources, time, staff, etc., what would I do?
Your answer to that question is the path God has called you to do.
Yes, it may seem impossible today but greatness was never a short sighted journey.
Your time is now…go chase significance!
Dr. Travis Yates retired as a commander with a large municipal police department after 30 years of service. He is the author of “The Courageous Police Leader: A Survival Guide for Combating Cowards, Chaos & Lies.” His risk management and leadership seminars have been taught to thousands of professionals across the world. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy with a Doctorate Degree in Strategic Leadership and the CEO of the Courageous Police Leadership Alliance.
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