Confusion can come from not understanding a problem. It can also come from having too many choices.
Too many choices & not understanding are linked.
Our 3rd Leadership Question is about targets and priorities.
All leaders set Targets – good leaders ask “What’s important?”
Target setting is easy – it can even be a power trip. Deciding priorities requires decisions. That’s why they’re important.
Whether you choose the “right” priorities or not, just choosing makes your efforts more effective – not just because it focuses joint effort onto fewer issues but, critically, because it demonstrates that you understand the problem you’re trying to solve.
Or maybe proves you don’t…
A common mistake of some leaders is to set multiple targets and no priorities.
Multiple objectives don’t just dilute focus, they betray a deeper problem – that leaders likely don’t understand the challenge they’re facing and won’t admit it.
Champion sportspeople know clearly what physical or mental issues are key to their success. They’re champions because they focus on the right things.
Leaders might have other leadership skills but without a clear picture of what’s important they can send a highly motivated team in the wrong direction, or around in circles.
Frequent changes can be a sign that the leader doesn’t have a clear picture, or doesn’t understand the situation.
Clarity doesn’t guarantee success. But it does signal confidence.
“..choosing priorities.. demonstrates that you understand the problem you’re trying to solve…”
If you’re honestly trying to solve a problem but find yourself shifting targets, are you discovering new issues or searching in the dark?
If you’re frustrated that things aren’t working, do you have a deeper problem of not understanding?
Are you trying to play golf with a baseball bat?
Do you set clear priorities?
Do you remind your team regularly what those priorities are, and link what they’re doing to them?
Do you understand the problem you’re trying to solve? Maybe focus on that…
Brilliantly put Bruce. What you are positing is alas backed up be research. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks Pete. I’d like to see some of that research. I’ve seen it in practice!