When you hear the word “leadership”, you may think of the military, sports, or maybe even our elected officials. Why don’t we think of ourselves as leaders? If you have children, guess what, you are in a leadership position. No, your kids don’t have to work for you or work within your business, but yes, you still have to provide guidance, direction, and leadership for your children. But, you also have to correct bad behavior and provide some sort of recourse.
Why am I talking about a family-related topic on a business blog? Well since you asked, I am seeing too many parents that aren’t leaders within their own households, yet they come to me talking about starting their own businesses. If you know me, you know I am a straight shooter and I don’t beat around the bush. I do my best to deliver my truths with tact.
Here are my two cents: If a parent can’t manage his or her own household, they sure as hell can’t run a business. I have seen way too many parents that don’t lead their children. They simply stick a tablet in their faces and give in to any whining from said children. Again, how is this relevant to running a business? In the real world of business and dealing with adults, adult problems, adult personalities, etc., if a person can’t look a fiver year old in the eyes and correct bad behavior or at least have some left and right guidelines on what is acceptable behavior and what isn’t, that person (parent) sure as hell can’t lead, guide, or correct an adult.
Now I understand that we all aren’t meant to be the next George Washington, as far as “leading” a nation. However, we all can learn and develop certain skills at home that will carry over into the real world of business. We had a saying in Special Forces that went, “If you’re going to be a bear, be a grizzly bear”. This means when in charge, take charge. Let there be no mistake of who is running the show and what is expected of everyone. Give clear and concise guidance with the desired outcome in mind.
I could go on for hours and pages about being a leader. Not that I am the best leader or that I have everything figured out. I still have so much to learn and so much room for growth. But, the first part of being or becoming a leader, is accepting the responsibility that comes along with the position that you find yourself. This goes for parenting, being a shift leader at your current job, taking that specific position at your church, being a coach for your kids’ soccer teams, and especially starting your own business!