Get Real

Leaders can't wear rose-colored glasses

Leaders need to be optimistic. And leaders need to deal with the cold, hard reality.

Do these seem to be contradictory? They don’t have to be.

Effective leaders communicate their understanding of reality AND give their people hope. “Yeah, this is a tough situation. But we’re going to get through it together. Here’s what we are going to do…”

Don’t downplay the problems, or you will lose credibility or the people dealing with those problems might feel disrespected on undervalued.

Don’t ignore problem behaviors on your team. Address issues promptly. Letting someone slide can demotivate the rest of the team. It also is better to “nip it in the bud” before it escalates—that might even lead to legal exposure for you or your company.

(image source: https://bsky.app/profile/meribolst.bsky.social/post/3kyul2azoox2g)