“No.” A powerful word and one I should use more often. Last Friday, I heard it from a member of my team. I am privileged to work with a small group of superstars who have grown because I have given them the freedom to do so. Last week they reminded me of my lesson.
It is the end of the selling year, throw in the holiday season and for good measure, add 2018 planning. For those who know the drill, it is not a joyous time, actually harried comes to mind.
He wasn’t saying “no” because he didn’t want to. He was meaning “no” because he had hit a wall and knew that he would not be able to give it his best effort.
It took me a moment to respond, but I respect each of them and if someone says “no,” there is a reason and a damn good one. More importantly, I heard him. And it made me think. Was I asking him to do something because it was essential, or was I asking him because the person requesting it was necessary? Next question – Who is more important than my team?
As leaders, we push others to exceed their expectations hoping they achieve a positive result. One of my early “push” memories took place while striped bass fishing off Cuttyhunk Island. It was barely dawn, and we set out to fish the “pigs,” a treacherous part of the shoreline that translated into great fishing. I am not an early morning person, but I was a newlywed – you get it right? The moon was disappearing, and the sun was peaking on the horizon. Suddenly I felt a tremendous tug on my line. My late husband stood behind me. As I struggled to calm this incredible force, he repeated, “Keep reeling her in; I am right here, I am right here.” I did it, and it was exhilarating. But what I remember most is that he had my back. He was not going to let me fail. I need to do the same for my team.
As I wind down tonight, I am reminded that while we push our teams, it is in our best interest to accept the same. Cheers to the newbies who tell us how fortunate we are to be on this path.
foursetsofeyes 