Are you acting like a boss?
Are you a boss? Or are you a leader? I’ve known many bosses whose default leadership style is to tell others what to do, all bossy-like. They push decisions down. I’ve even seen them succeed, but only up to a point. I’ve also been that boss and it was painful, but not just for me.
When you’re the boss, you make the decisions and direct others' steps. It’s natural and seems easier in the short-term. But unless you’re in a CPR-like situation, that tell-direct approach is short-sighted and self-limiting, because you’re only one person with one perspective and only so much time and an entire practice to run. Being the boss is exhausting and lonely while you're surrounded by people who want to help and are waiting to be asked.
What’s the alternative? To lead is to push decision-making down instead of pushing down decisions already made. As one who leads, you share the vision and the challenge and empower the team to find solutions together and on their own. I’ll admit it’s more work up front as you invest in training and a culture that lets others win or even lets them fail and learn. But it’s so worth it, because instead of spending all your time managing, micromanaging, and hiring, you end up getting to lead more, to rest more, and to grow. Your empowered team is more effective, more content, and more productive. And who doesn’t want that?
How does one transform from boss to leader? While I could write a book on this, many already have. So I’ll leave you with this one thing. A baby step. The next time you find yourself about to tell someone what to do, stop and take a breath (this is the big leadership transformation moment), then ask them this: “What do you think we (or you) should do?” When you see the look of alarm and confusion on their face, ask again, and tell them it’s not a trap, that you honestly want their opinion. Then listen. Actively listen to every word they say. Thank them for their input. Hopefully it’s a great decision, and you can say “great, let’s do that.” Maybe it’s not a great decision or what you would do, but you can let them do it anyway, because it will work and they’ll learn. If they are way off base, it’s a training moment. Tell them what you would do and - more importantly - why. Good job, leader! Keep trying, because many more baby steps will get you where you want to go and much faster than you think.
There is so much more information to share about transforming into a great leader that empowers, but not enough time or space to do so here. If you’re looking for guidance or have questions on running your practice and leading a team, I coach and consult with practice owners and leaders just like you. At RealityVet.com, we’re here to help you succeed at work and in life by giving you the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to confidently win with people and the real business of veterinary medicine.
