“Do as I say, not as I do”
Ever hear that one before? It’s a classic retort for a leader who can’t walk the walk.
And in an old world where words trumped action, this kind of autocratic, non self-accountable rule could still get results.
But it’s not that kind of world anymore. Our actions in this digital age are all too visible.
Especially if we are wanting to be leaders on a grander stage, whether it’s leaders of companies, government, teams, movements, or even just thoughts.
Because it’s pretty darn easy to see through the talk and uncover the hypocrisy.
But yet the “do as I say, not as I do” behavior is still hanging around.
Just read the daily newspaper, watch the news, or monitor your Social Media stream and you’ll see what I mean.
Today, for example, I saw a variation of the theme in George Vecsey’s column in the NY Times – phrased slightly differently:
“Actually, that does not apply to me.”
Somehow, individuals in leadership positions believe they can make the rules, or enforce those of a higher authority, but don’t have to follow them themselves.
As frustrating as it may be to see this behavior persist, it should only strengthen our collective desire to hold our leaders, and ourselves, accountable to a higher standard of consistency of words and actions.
It’s not easy, I know. Being a great leader takes a lot of intestinal fortitude, and a conscious. Because sometimes we do act inconsistently, or irrationally. We’re human.
Nevertheless, for leaders to be worthy of that moniker, they need to consistently and relentlessly bring their internal compass back to true north. Look at the very first definition of the word “lead”:
“To show the way to by going in advance”
It’s not that complicated – the best way to be a real leader is to simply ACT like one, instead of just talking like one.
And we need real leaders now more than ever.
Show us the way!
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Terry, you always know how to hit the nail on the head… one action begets instant reaction, and if it’s not positive momentum, then the initial action is pointless.
I heard, echoing through our office the other day, “If you’re not going to lead, get the hell out of the way…” — or was that in my own head?
ANYWAY… thanks for always keeping the light on. It’s so much easier to see with you around.
Keep Cooking!
Andrew
Hi Andrew – thanks for stopping by. I also appreciate your kind words – I do try to keep that light on, always!
But about those voices in your head…….
All the best,
Terry
Hi Terry,
As an “insider”, I can’t help but laugh at your key point–>”It’s not that complicated – the best way to be a real leader is to simply ACT like one, instead of just talking like one.”
It’s so true. And I don’t even know where to begin to respond. So I’ll just offer this to the discussion. “Act with Authenticity”.
The truth is that people want to be inspired. Even when the leader doesn’t have the answers, people will follow you if you show them that you care and you enlist their support and contribution as part of the solution.
It’s called having a genuine conversation about the challenges and what it’s going to take to get there. Meaning what you say and then keeping your actions congruent with inspite of the obstacles.
A couple of days ago I had a passionate face to face conversation with someone about the customer experience. I said to her, I can’t give you the “Care” DNA. I can’t force you (not her but “them”) to care about the customer. Either you do or don’t. But it starts there.
So I agree, Leading by telling is ineffective. But leading by example inspires!
Thanks for my inspiration today!
~Marian
http://twitter.com/mariansparks