April 2009
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Time for a Sea Change
(Sea Change: a profound transformation)
Choosing Hope Over Fear
By Elaine Siciliano Morris
A leading executive asked, “How do I get my team motivated in the face of major budget cut-backs and talk of workforce reduction?” It’s an insightful question for these uncertain times. We are in uncharted waters!
Rod Morris, a Dallas educator, loves to study brain research, so that he and his teachers stay on top of their craft. He shared, “Studies show that the best learning occurs in the presence of moderate stress, but not in a fearful environment.” His staff strives to provide non-anxious leadership. In the work place, this means sharing the reality of the situation, but not in a way that de-motivates or triggers fear.
Our new president modeled this well in the opening of his inauguration address – “We have chosen hope over fear.” He didn’t step over the difficult times ahead; rather he spoke in a way that lifted us up. We can all agree that inspiration is what is called for in difficult times. A leader must keep hope alive.
The Bible tells us in Proverbs: “Without vision, the people perish.” When tough times occur, the really wise and discerning leaders learn to communicate and interpret circumstances in a way where people are enrolled in a bigger vision. Subsequently, individuals are propelled towards growth.
Truly tough times are the best opportunity for a sea change. It’s when people are most hungry for some encouraging news and eager for a leader who has a compelling message. Here are some tips to guide you on this path.
3 Steps to A SEA CHANGE (a fundamental and profound change)
1) Speak: Ask yourself, “What big goal, change or adjustment am I committed to this year?” How do I move in a new direction with my team for a sea change? Define your vision. This can impact reality. Put it in writing. This can impact reality. It will come alive and into existence, when it is spoken as a personal declaration. Practice speaking it.
2) Excite: Start sharing it. By passionately expressing your vision, you move others away from the negative impact of the daily news to a higher ground. Being FOR something, rather than just surviving, is key. It allows us to see how we can make a difference. Together with your team, create a meaningful phrase that best expresses your vision. This will be your team’s mantra. “Yes we can” was very clear, short and compelling, yet it has deep roots. For those of you who remember, or who are history buffs, “I like Ike” lacked substance.
3) Advance: To move ahead, to rise in status, to bring something forward in time, means to progress or improve. In the military when waging war, a general commands: “Advance the troops!” A leader advances a strategic campaign through coordinated action plans, key metrics, and constant, multi-faceted and motivating communication, which then cascades throughout the organization and incites extraordinary human effort. Remember vision leaks and needs to be replenished regularly.
In a recent ad, there was a picture of Tiger Woods standing in waist-high grass with the caption, “It’s not a setback, it’s a test.” While it may be true that we are in “uncharted waters”, those who recognize or grow their ability to lead; those who can shift attitudes; those who speak transformation into congested minds, can diligently execute the qualitative changes necessary to thrive in the days ahead.
Best wishes for YOUR sea change!
Elaine
Elaine Siciliano Morris, founder and principal of Sea Change Inc. is an executive coach, author and speaker. Elaine helps executives develop non-anxious leadership skills and the ability to express themselves fully, naturally and in a way that mobilizes their people into effective action. Elaine operates on the principle that each leader can learn to leverage their talents to reach their full potential. The result is greater personal satisfaction and a team culture that is energized, inspiring and productive.
Elaine’s talk, Time for a Sea Change, designed to help leaders inspire and motivate their teams, is now available for in-house corporate groups and professional associations.
For more information contact: 972 407-0648 or elaine@seachangecoach.com.
Action News is a monthly publication of the Richardson Chamber of Commerce Communications Department.
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