My sister and I went to the STAR POWER leadership University in Chicago in September (yes, I'm sure you have seen the posts about our fun). However, one really smart thing that we did was join up for the coaching that came AFTER the class. Believe me, this is not one of those classes that you attend, buy the stuff and come home and put up in the bookcase never to be seen again....Oh, no. This class is larger than life! (at least my real estate life).
So, today was my first coaching call with my group. Our first assignment that had to be done (prior to the call) was to read the book The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell. Now, I'm telling you that if you are going to take your Leadership learning to the next level that this book is NOT an easy read. I had to re-read, highlight and go over again until this stuff STUCK in my mind. Mind you that there are 21 different lessons and each one of them is so important to the other yet, they all stand alone (all at the same time, how does that happen?).
I won't go through all of the 21 lessons (that's for you to get the book and find out for yourself), but for my team, I think the biggest thing that I learned from this book was the LAW OF EMPOWERMENT. Yes, we all know that we need to "let go" but, for some of us control freaks (that's me, ask my sis...) it's really hard to change how you view things and just let it "be". I know that I have some of the BEST people on my Team, yet I seem to think that my way (guess cause I've been doing it so long!) is the best way....when really, their ideas, creativity and implementation is SOOOO much better than mine (and makes me even look better!).
So, this is my first priority. To hold myself back, allow someone else to step up to the plate and WATCH them swing that bat!....what do you know, Home Run is guaranteed!
I implore you to try also.... Let me know how it goes.
Serving the needs of Agents, Buyer's and Seller's for over 25 years.
Sheila Moran, Broker/Owner
RE/MAX ACCESS
19115 FM 2252, Ste. 7
Garden Ridge, Texas 78266
210-657-7500 / 210-325-6962
Thanks for sharing Sheila you brought up probably one of the biggest things I've learned lately. The Law Of Empowerment is a powerful one and as you said its pretty hard for some of us to do, but it's payoffs are huge. If you help people around you succeed and help to pull people out of their comfort zone you'll be totally surprised as to how much it will help you in the end.
Thanks for sharing some of what you learned at the classes.
Sheila: I agree: it's not easy letting go. I've done it in baby steps and now I'm reaping the benefits of not micromanaging. I have more time to pursue those things I'm good at, although I must admit that I can still let go some more.
Empowering them means teaching first, then letting go, right?
Hey Sheila - As a Star Power Star, it always makes me feel good when others use what we share to have a postivie impact on their business. Maxwell is one of my all time favorite leaders, authors and all around nice guy! Like the Star Power Club, his Maxwell's monthly CD is worth looking into. Hugs from Paradise.
That sounds like a great book and you learned alot from the hour! Now I can't wait for my coaching hour (I need to finish my homework first!). KM
I've always found that empowering those people around me helps me get more done and they seem to be happier, too, because when I get more done, they get perks, benefits, salary increases, gifts, etc.