“There’s a fine line between fishing and just standing on the shore like an idiot.” ~Steven Wright
When it comes to fishing, a lot of fishermen use a leader (an additional section of wire or line) to quickly connect or replace the hook or the lure to the fishing line.
The type of leader used is determined by the situation, environment, or objective. For example, sometimes you need a stronger leader so a larger fish doesn’t snap or bite through the line and cause problems. In other situations a thinner, lighter, leader is needed so the fish doesn’t see the line (invisible) and get distracted.
So you might be asking yourself, So Joe, why are you telling me about fishing Joe?
Well to be honest, I’m not, I’m really talking about leaders and leadership!
As As Steven Wright so aptly stated in the opening quote, there is a big difference between fishing and being an idiot, as there is a big difference between being an extraordinary leader and being an idiot.
Being a Leader Means Knowing How and When:
- You have to be strong and more direct with a team member. Especially, if they are causing problems for the rest of the team or organization. Think of the superstar team member who produces big numbers, and therefore thinks it’s okay to treat everyone else like garbage, including you!
- You need to lighten up and not be so intense. Having a high level of self-awareness so that you do not project your own issues, cultures, or triggers, onto your people. This is critically important if you want to effectively lead others.
- You need to step-back so your people can step-up and grow into their potential. Sometimes a leader needs to be invisible, other times they need to be very visible.
- You need to nudge your folks in order to lure them out’ve their comfort zones and into the best versions of themselves so they can reach their highest potential!
- You know when it’s time to catch-and-release, mostly release, usually because you caught the wrong fish and they don’t meet the minimum requirements for performance.
As Steven Wright so aptly stated in the opening quote, there is a big difference between fishing and being an idiot. Same principal applies to leadership; there is a big difference between being a leader and being an idiot.
Patience & Wisdom
Being an Extraordinary Leader means you have learned how to respond in any given situation at any given time. This requires two critically important personal characteristics:
- Patience that comes from years of watching, waiting, and observing.
- Wisdom that comes from years of learning what to do and at times what not to do!
Okay on second thought, maybe I AM talking about fishing as well!
