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As we transition into a new year and reflect 2021, one of the most defining and challenging years to be a leader, there is an opportunity for each of us to reflect on what we can do to reset, reframe, and refocus.
Reflect
Take a moment to pause and reflect on the leadership journey you have been on the last twelve months. When we entered this pandemic, few predicted we would still be in the thick of it today. But what we did as leaders was dive in. We dove into action to respond to the needs of the business, the team, the clients and customers to do what was needed to survive. As leaders, we were forced to make hard decisions, fast decisions, necessary decisions. As leaders, we were asked to pivot in a place where many of us did not know where to go and how to respond. But we did. You did. And as a leader, you committed yourself to what was needed. So, look around where you sit today and acknowledge what you did, how you did it, and what you learned.
What have you learned about yourself as a leader?
What has been your single greatest lesson?
What are you continuing to learn about the way you lead your team?
What makes you a great leader?
Reset
After a pause, it's time to “hit the reset button” to prepare us as leaders to navigate the transition into 2022. In your reflection, you identified what you became aware of about yourself as a leader. In order to reset, it’s time to identify what behaviors are needed to move forward:
Over the past twelve months, what have I done as a leader that has worked well? What can I continue doing?
Over the past nine months, what choices have I made that have not worked well? What is currently not working well? Where do I need to pivot?
If I knew I could not fail, what are two things I would implement with my team to be a better leader?
Reframe
Now that you have become clear on what is working and not working, as well as identified what you should be doing to pivot your leadership approach to be more effective, it’s time to “reframe” your perspective. Based on what emerged in the previous three questions, what can you do to give yourself permission to step in and take ownership around your revelations? What do you need to let go of or say “no” to? What are you holding onto? Where can you reframe your perspective?
Refocus
Leadership is not a job or a skill, it is a practice. Once you have taken the time to reflect, reset, and reframe, it should be pretty clear what you can do to refocus your leadership practice. Many leaders are tired, overwhelmed and overcommitted by the continued uncertainty that we live in. There are so many demands of a leader. But, this is where it counts. This is where it matters. Invest and recommit back to yourself, your team, and your practice. Focus on 2-3 things you can do that will make the most impact. Focus on your people. Model the behavior you want to see by creating an environment of vulnerability, commitment and growth.
This is your time. This is your moment to make that difference.