5 Deadly Beliefs That Limit Leaders

5 Deadly beliefs that limit leaders

Action begins with belief.

Wrong beliefs result in wasted effort.

Ineffective leaders believe wrong things about themselves, others, situations, and organisations.

5 Deadly beliefs that limit leaders

Deadly belief #1. The problem is out there. Helplessness, irresponsibility, and recurring frustration are the result of blame.  The first responsibility is taking responsibility for yourself.

Nothing changes until you change.

Leaders who believe the problem is out there, say:

• I can’t do anything about it.
• It’s their problem.
• I’m overwhelmed.
• I’m not responsible.
• I can’t figure them out.
• They don’t understand me.
• No one appreciates me.

Ineffective leaders spend too much time thinking about changing others and not enough thinking about changing themselves.

When you stop growing, you start dying.

Deadly belief #2: Leaders have power to change others. When leaders believe they can change others they adopt strategies and behaviors that create resistance in others. Leaders don’t change others.

Leaders create environments and relationships where others change themselves.

Deadly belief #3: Working harder is the answer. Bias toward action invites leaders to neglect relationships, environments, and experiences. Hard work is a given, but there’s more to success than working hard.

Deadly belief #4: Reserve gratitude and honor for special occasions. I recently spoke at a College in the heart-land of the USA. After the introduction, the audience jumped to their feet clapping and cheering. I believe they do this for all their speakers. It cost nothing and it made me feel great.

Deadly belief #5: It’s not that bad. Recurring small problems are worse than you think. Bad is 5x stronger than good. Don’t solve everything. Believe you must turn the spotlight on awkward issues and work with others to find solutions.

Tip: Bring up awkward topics with optimism. “Woe is me,” isn’t leadership.

Right belief drives effective action.

What deadly beliefs limit leaders?

What beliefs enhance leadership?