Getting to know our thinking intimately through a process like inquiry allows us to develop greater flexibility in our work. As we consider what we believed to be true we discover a treasure trove of different possibilities. Our mind learns to look at life from a wider perspective. Changing direction becomes easy and fluid.
Last weekend on our cross country ski we met this old fir tree. What made it so striking was that it obviously had changed direction in its life at least twice – not so common in a tree. Part of its old branches are dry and broken, but the main trunk is thick and healthy-looking, with richly red bark and sturdy roots. Compared to the other trees around it the trunk is comparatively thicker than other trees the same height. Also – you know, its got personality!
Of course, we know that the ability to change direction is an imperative quality in a team leader.
You make a decision, move towards a goal, and reassess the direction as you go. You continue if all looks great, and change if it doesn’t.
And how about the process of change – Is it easy for you?
Do doubt and expectations hamper your ease in changing, even if only sometimes? Which are the thinking processes that keep you going to try just a little longer despite your inner voice, or change a plan before giving something a chance?
When you are aware of your thinking and your motivations you are a huge step ahead. You get to know your fears, your triggers, and your blind spots. Knowing your own shortcomings makes it easier to see them – and be compassionate about them – in your team as well. It improves your ability to direct if you understand their strengths and weaknesses clearly. You can work with them efficiently just as they are, instead of wishing them different, or arguing against them.
If you can let go of what others might think and do about your new direction it leaves all your energy for implementation. This is not to say don’t include your team – they are your greatest asset! And trust your own inner voice.
And for those irritating and frustrating thoughts that keep plaguing you after work and wake you up at night, bring them to inquiry to stay flexible!
As I was looking at that beautiful tree I was imagining a forest full of trees like this one. It would be so diverse and so fun! Thick trunks would be going in all directions, places to sit, lie on even; habitat for different species, including us. If we as leaders could grow such a forest in our workplaces I envision us more connected, intertwined, supporting each other, sharing our spaces authentically and lovingly. We could be creating a thriving natural habitat at work.
