Share the Excitement

Do you wake up in the morning so excited about the opportunities the new day brings? Does your heart beat a little faster when you think about the ministry of leadership that your position provides? Does the inspiration that you derive from the impact of your organization serve as incredible motivation for your life? If you identify with this kind of enthusiasm, then you have experienced the thrill of leadership.

But, part of the challenge of leadership is finding ways to share this enthusiasm with others in the organization. How does the leader, who is so excited about the future and what lies ahead, pass on this enthusiasm? As I have reflected on this huge, and yet vital task, I would suggest at least four methods. Each of these approaches must work together to accomplish a balance and comprehensive message to the organization.

First, the leader must consistently project a positive outlook. The organizational culture must ring with the bells of victory. Celebration for the small accomplishments and the huge ones should characterize the spirit of the company. Positivism should reflect both the present status as well as the future possibilities of the organization. Things are not always rosy and filled with silver linings, but as Annie always said, "you're never fully dressed without a smile." Cold water can squelch creativity, but optimistic encouragement can enable collaborative ideation that leads to excitement among the troops.

Second, a leader must communicate realistic explanations. Optimistic leaders are usually bubbling over with a mighty vision of incredible impact. The leader often sees the vision with the clarity of present reality even when it is still far away. At the same time the leader must be careful to give real-time explanations to keep the people informed and "in touch" with the actual data of the day. Positive dreams and inspiring movement toward the future need to be balanced with realistic explanations to realistic inquiries.

Third, a leader must be committed to honest responses of integrity. The positive spin of optimism must never deceive the stakeholders. Clarifying and pointing to the future are keys to helping other catch the vision, but misrepresenting the present can cause mistrust and anger. If the future looks bright but the present is filled with rough and rocky times, honest statements that paint a true picture of both can free the organization to dream and pray with power.

Fourth, a leader must create a challenging vision. A vision that can be easily accomplished is not much of a vision at all. However, a vision that is way out of the realm realistic possibility can actually serve as a discouragement to the company. But a well designed, strategically worded vision can provide statements that unify and inspire. An edgy balance between challenge and simplicity; between a major stretch and concrete plans; between total dependence and confident responsibility can energize leaders, board members, employees and other stakeholders to sacrifice and dedicate themselves to the transformation of the vision into reality.

If you are charged-up about the future and excited about where your organization is moving, then share your passion and allow others to join your adventure. Be positive, be real, be honest, be visionary! Leaders that are inspired can inspire others; leaders that are enthusiastic can motivate colleagues, leaders that are passionate communicate genuine integrity, and leaders with optimistic vision create unity. Share the excitement and enjoy the journey!

Excitement face found at http://enoughhatsforeveryone.blogspot.com/
Enthusiasm Ignites Greatness Graphic found at http://quotesweliveby.blogspot.com/2010/10/nothing-great-was-ever-achieved-without.html