by Guest Author Betty Shotton, author of "LiftOff Leadership"
Before every flight, professional pilots pull out a pre-flight checklist and go through it from top to bottom. Even if they have flown the same plane and gone over the same checklist thousands of times, they never assume that they know it all and skip that critical practice.
Professional pilots know that their responsibility to the lives of their passengers is too great to risk by possibly forgetting a critical go/ no go check. They rely on these checklists to ensure that all systems are in place and that they have the green light for a successful take-off, a smooth flight and a safe landing at their intended destination.
This same level of responsibility for the lives of others is inherent in leadership. It’s not as obvious as it is for pilots but the character and conduct of leaders has a significant impact on the quality and determination of the lives and livelihoods of those that they lead.
What are the critical go/ no go checklist items for leaders? If forgotten, what can elevate or tear down a leader?
We all know that profitability is crucial to the success and sustainability of an organization or endeavor. What we don’t seem to remember are the human attributes that can make or break a leader’s legacy.
Integrity, accountability, courage, faith and altruism are not just nice things to put into our strategic documents. These and other fundamental values that define the best in mankind are actually essential to exceptional leadership.
What are yours? What makes your leadership meaningful? Who are you as a leader?
Your checklist for exceptional leadership is comprised of your unique values and principles. They can be rediscovered and reinforced through the regular conduct and review of a leadership value clarification exercise. I provide one on my web site: Click here for downloading this Leadership Checklist sample.
Use this sample checklist with your team. Make it a part of your leadership development. Include specific checklists at corporate retreats and let them be springboards for important dialogue between team members.
Never forget what holds meaning and purpose for you. Continually strive to serve others in their lives and careers while you commit to doing your best and being your best. Start with a clear understanding of what that means for you. Pull out that checklist. Keep it in view. Get ready for your flight of exceptional leadership.
Our future will reflect the values and principles that we represented. What are yours?
Betty Shotton: LiftOff Leadership: 10 Principles for Exceptional Leadership
Kindle Edition (preview or buy): John Agno: Can't Get Enough Leadership: Book Notes & Coaching Tips
ePub/Nook Format: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Cant-Get-Enough-Leadership/John-Agno/e/2940012474339