If March comes in like a lion, it will go out like a lamb. -Traditional weather lore
This first week of March, many people will be very closely watching the weather to see if the new month is coming in “like a lion,” with snow, harsh winds, or a rain storm. Folklore would have us believe that if it does, the month will go out “like a lamb,” ending in warmer temperatures, calm winds, and sunny days to launch us into Spring.
One of the first things I do every day is check the weather forecast. I want to know how best to dress for the day and if I need to alter any planned activities. The weather is so variable, at least here in Central Ohio, we often don’t really know what a day will be like until it actually shows up.
Do your people feel the same way about you?
How do you show up? Are your moods as variable as the weather can be? Or, are you fairly even keel? Do your people know what to expect every day or do they have to wait until you actually show up to find out?
Back in the day, I had an associate share with me that her manager’s moods were so unpredictable that everyday it was actually someone’s responsibility to test the waters, so to speak, and then let the rest of the team know what the manager’s mood of the day was. That report impacted how the team interacted with the manager, how and when they addressed problems, and how they led their teams. Imagine…everyday the team had to adjust to the manager’s mood. That manager was not leading.
Unlike the weather, I suggest that leaders should neither show up like a lion or a lamb. Instead, search your heart to find your authentic voice. Bring that to your team everyday. Help them be in a place of certainty rather than a place doubt and worry.
Be consistent. Be reliable. Be predictable. Be steady. Be a leader.
The Tuesday Tidbit is the emerging leader’s weekly source for team building tips, leadership development content, creative ideas and general workplace inspiration. To discuss individual coaching or a group workshop at your office, contact me here and let’s chat!
Photo credit: E. Biddulph, storm clouds in Central Ohio
