"Happenstance and Leadership"

John D. Krumboltz designed an entire career theory around the idea of "happenstance." Krumboltz basically said, that the most satisfying work life comes to those that engage in a variety of interests and opportunities, specifically those that take advantage of unplanned events or "happenstance."

As a twist, I would challenge those that seek to become more proficient at leadership to take on the Krumboltz challenge, by asking themselves, "how could an unplanned event or an opportunity of happenstance make you a better leader?" We all like to think that we are good on our feet, should something out of the ordinary occur. But, how good are we really? Do we have a plan of action that is appropriate to navigate the unexpected? Do we have a moral compass to guide us in times of uncertainty? Do we know who to turn to when we need answers quickly? And when is it time to look to others for leadership guidance?

I think back to a time in school when we were asked to participate in a team project that included a rope. We were asked to form a circle and take hold of a rope. We stood there staring at each other to see who would make the first move. Who would assume the leadership position, become the agent of change, practice the use of self in changing the dynamic of the group.

Interestingly enough, some folks dropped the rope and became observers of the task. What did the rope symbolize for these non participants? Were they external to the world of work? Were we internal to the world of work? What did all of this have to do with leadership?

Perhaps, this activity had the most meaning for me as a student of leadership. It most closely represented the liklihood that as a leader, we will all be faced with opportunities to take the rope, or hand off the rope when appropriate. To know when our leadership skills in times of happenstance or unplanned events, has everything to do with knowing what we can do to manage a crisis (taking the rope) or remain external to the crisis(dropping the rope).


There is no right or wrong answers in school. It is all about theory, perception and experience. It is a safe haven for exploration and experimentation. It is not like real life at all. Therefore, it is important to look to some sage of wisdom as guidance. For me it was my freshman year in college when I read John Lilly's book, "Center of the Cyclone." Dr. Lilly's words resonate and provide clarity to this day, especially in times of happenstance,this is my leadership mantra.

"Within the province of the Mind, what I believe to be true either is true or becomes true within the limits to be found experientially and experimentally. These limits are further beliefs to be transcended."

What is your leadership mantra?

Brainstorming

Recently I attended a meeting at my organization that included a brainstorming session. The bait was a question that asked "what skills and abilities should a business graduate have to be successful in their field?" I am paraphrasing the question but it is accurate enough for this discussion. The interesting part of the discussion was that leadership skills did not come up until 15 or 20 minutes into the brainstorming session. Of course, it was the first thing that popped into my head. Right or wrong, we are taught how to manage in school, but not how to lead.

Leadership within an organization is not some grand sweep of action and emotion. It is a steady hand of communication and engagement. The calm before the storm, the bridge over troubled water, the sentinel at the gate of change and uncertainty. Leadership is the celebration of accomplishment, the whisper of gratitude for loyalty and dedication. Its the sponsor of our ideas and innovations and the beacon of opportunity.

We all have the ability to be competent leaders, but many of us aren't willing to sublimate our egos to the mission or the vision of the organization. If you have ever walked a busy street with a small child, hand in hand, ever vigilant of the traffic and crowds, lights and noise and interruptions; cautious and protective yet bold in your stride to protect the child at your own expense. That is leadership.

Leadership at all levels

This blog is an open forum on leadership. Since everyone has a different definition of leadership, this blog will discuss leadership at all levels. We often think of leadership as a top down phenomenon that originates at the highest levels of the organization when in fact, leadership within an organization manifests itself on all levels, or at least it should.

Leadership could be the customer service representative taking that extra step to get a problem resolved. I spent many years in the customer service field and made it my duty to resolve the difficult issues that should have been referred to a manager. This was my way of learning the process and understanding the resources available within the organization. Ultimately, it was a good learning experience and provided me with an organizational savvy that gave me leverage to apply for and obtain a higher position with in the company.

Make every leadership opportunity count, regardless of your job or job title. You can be a leader at every level of the organization. Your efforts will be noticed and the opportunity to move up will come at an accelerated pace. Also, as a small tidbit, keep a journal of your leadership accomplishments. This will be a good refresher when the time to interview for a position comes along. No doubt, you will be asked a series of questions, in which your answers will demonstrate your leadership ability and with a journal you will be ready.

Next time we will discuss leadership and the importance of communication.