Image: Public Domain
We’re nearing the official end of Winter (in the Northern Hemisphere at least), and most of us throughout North America have seen some strange and extreme weather this year. It can be tough to focus on strategy and team building when the days are cold and dark.
People may feel busy, tired, and overwhelmed and just want to rush home at the end of the day. It’s important to remember that even in the darkest winter months, relationship building and keeping a focus on your strategy and team is as important as ever.
This month, I’ve chosen some fun articles and podcasts about strategy, decision making, leadership and team building. Remember: without your people, you can’t execute a strategy!
Human capital (i.e. team building, employee retention, job satisfaction, etc.) is an integral part of strategy, but not everyone has turned their focus there yet. Many organizational leaders still put the main strategic focus on financial capital. While finances are important, you need your people to help move your organization forward. Focusing your strategy on your people might be the best thing that a leader can do for their organization.
Decisions are at the heart of strategic planning, but how do we make them? If you’re in the mood for learning about the psychology and science behind decision making, this is the perfect podcast for your commute.
Simon Sinek is one of my favourite authors and speakers on leadership. In this interview, Sinek focuses on the importance of taking accountability rather than jumping to criticism in many areas of life, including the realm of politics.
He clearly defines the difference between a boss and a leader. A boss sees themselves as the boss and the person in charge, while a leader “is someone who sees themselves in service to a higher cause”.
If you like short, engaging talks on leadership, check out these great Ted Talks from Sinek:
Why Good Leaders Make You Feel Safe
How Great Leaders Inspire Action
This fun little article showcases Indiana Jones’ leadership traits in a way that can relate to all of us. Whether you lead an organization, a team, or a family, you can learn the ways of Indiana Jones.
