January 2013: Develop a “Beginner’s Mind.”

It’s the beginning of a new year -- the perfect time to consider applying “beginner’s mind” to the challenges and opportunities in your midst.  Beginner’s Mind refers to an openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions. It means letting go of what you think you know, and adopting an “I don’t know” strategy.

This is especially challenging for us as leaders because most of us earned our position (as well as respect) based on our expertise. Indeed, we are usually rewarded and recognized for knowing; having the answers. It’s hard to let that go. However, we need to recognize that our expertise is based on past circumstances. Today we are facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities, so what worked in the past may not necessarily work best today or tomorrow.

There’s a famous Zen saying: In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities; in the expert's mind there are few.  Today, think about one particular problem or opportunity facing you, your team and/or your company. Suspend your expert judgment, start asking questions as if you were a ‘beginner,’ and see where it leads.

January 2012: It’s all about follow-through.

The start of a new year often means new plans and commitments.  With twelve months stretching out before us, it seems there is endless time to work on our goals.  It’s easy to procrastinate or allow urgent tasks to supersede the important ones.  Remember that the most compelling commitments, aspirations and intentions mean nothing if they aren’t backed by action. 

As you gear up for 2012, take a look at what you aspire to do and what you’ve committed to others.  Think about what’s most important to the advancement of your broader objectives.  Then, earmark time on your calendar to work on those things every week, beginning now.  Don’t worry about whether you make giant strides each week; the key is to make steady progress and keep your priorities top-of-mind to ensure follow-through.

Indeed, the ability to set and then successfully execute a vision or plan is the mark of a great leader, whether you’re leading others or leading your life.