I've witnessed many leaders, including myself at times, get distracted from good leadership. Many times it’s a natural occurrence. We aren't feeling well physically or emotionally. Life struggles distract us for a season. There are unavoidable distractions for any leader. It’s the distractions we can avoid which tend to be most frustrating and can become roadblocks to good leadership and organizational health.
Have you ever encountered one of these 5 roadblocks to good leadership?
Abusing power rather than extending power to others – Some leaders try to control an outcome, but end up wasting the valuable talent of other team members. This roadblock always limits the team's possibilities to that of the leader.
Making excuses for a weakness, rather than admitting weaknesses and growing strengths – Some leaders never admit a fault or mistake even though everyone around them sees it. This roadblock ensures that underlying problems of the team are never addressed or corrected.
Favoring popularity over progress – Some leaders care more that everyone like him or her than about achieving the goals of the organization. When this roadblock occurs, complacency and mediocrity become standards instead of excellence.
Holding grudges instead of building bridges – Some leaders get distracted by personal injuries, challenges or disappointments from others on the team. This roadblock results in turf wars among team members, where sides are chosen and the team’s abilities to effectively work together is limited.
Waiting for the perfect conditions rather than taking a risk – Some leaders refuse to take steps in faith; demanding that every potential problem be eliminated. This roadblock results in bored cultures and teams, slow or no growth, and eventual declines. The opportunity cost with this distraction is exponential.
