I have finished reading a book by Andy Stanley which has further boosted my paradigm on leadership. The title is The Next Generation Leader. It’s an insightful book which teaches about five basic pillars for developing effective leadership. The five factors which all start with the letter ‘C’ are Competence, Courage, Clarity, Coaching, and Character. I would like to put the spotlight on COMPETENCE.
Competence is operating your work from your strength zone for maximum results. Your strength zone flows from your talents, skills, and gifts. If there are strength zones, then there are definitely weak zones. Operating from your weak zone results in minimum results.
To be a competent leader…
1.Recognize You Have Limited Strengths. Discover what they are. Find a work environment that allows you to focus your energies on the few things you were created to do well.
2.Say No To Weak Zone Responsibilities. These are responsibilities and projects that call for skills that fall outside your core competencies.
3.Embrace This Truth. The less you do, the more you will accomplish.
4.Narrow Your Focus to increase your productivity and expand your influence within your organization.
5.Delegate To Leaders Around You. Empower the leaders around you by delegating those responsibilities that fall outside your zone. Somebody is dying to pick up the ball you drop.
I believe these five points if they are practiced will cause a tremendous change in your life and career. It is great to read what I write. But it is greater to apply them to unleash the full power in these principles. Competence will make you realize your maximum potential in life.
