LEADERS SHOULD BE AHEAD OF THE PACK

One of the most over-looked traits of a business leader is

that they…lead.
As I work with business owners and managers, one of the key
things I observe is the need for the leader to stay ahead
of the pack. There are a zillion things to do as the boss.
It is easy to get bogged down in day-to-day operations and
we forget to learn, to plan, and to maintain a vision for
the business. And yet your employees, your customers and
the future of your business depend on your ability to set
the standards and lead the way.
Bill Gates is reported to take a week off every three
months, for thinking. I understand he maintains a retreat
on Hood Canal and often goes there alone to review and
renew. Apparently, the practice has worked well for him.
Benjamin Franklin treasured the time on his trips across
the Atlantic because they gave him perspective. C.S. Lewis
often took walks of up to 20 miles, in order to have time
to think. Hundreds of successful business leaders have
reported that their most productive time is the hour they
spend planning.
When I coach business leaders, I encourage them to divide
their planning and visioning time into two components:
Business Design and Personal Growth. Both are essential.
Plan the future of your business. Design the growth you
want to see. Choose the course, develop a strategy for the
future. And then, be sure your personal development program
equips you to be the leader your company will need in the
future.