Recently, I conducted a training session on leadership and the importance of mentorship, with 20 bright, up-and-coming middle managers. At one point I discussed situational leadership, which involves a leader adjusting their style to fit the situation. An effective situational leader diagnoses the situation and understands who they are and why they want to influence others. As a result, they will manage the “moment” or “situation” with clear communication and prompt action. Think about Mayor Rudy Giuliani in the days and months after 9/11 – a prime example of situational leadership.
I queried the group and asked if any of them had served in the United States military. Five individuals raised their hands. I asked one of the participants what he thought of his drill instructor as he worked hard each day to survive nine weeks of hell. Boot camp is a test of character, physical and mental strength that turns a civilian into a modern day military professional.
As a United States Air force veteran, I vividly recall my days at basic in San Antonio, Texas, marching in 90 degree heat, learning my left from my right, getting yelled at, at 5 o’clock in the morning. Spending long hot days in a classroom with no air conditioner, learning Air Force rules and regulations. The drill instructor I had encountered was clearly a man on a mission. That mission was to make us the best Air Force recruits and to prepare us to serve our country with honor during times of both war and peace.
A drill sergeant is a living symbol of excellence; they live the values of the military and exemplify the warrior ethos. They are true professionals. Of course the positive influence of your drill instructor doesn’t hit you until after you graduate from boot camp. Any ill will or bad feelings are replaced with admiration.
Without question, boot camp impacts you for life. Boot camp is a rite of passage, in which drill instructors forge recruits identities as military professionals. They teach how to follow orders and how to fit in to the military culture. The process creates a special bond of love-hate relationship. When you reflect on the pain of basic training … you do indeed respect your drill instructor.
The military indoctrination is done with a purpose – a rehearsed, manufactured and engineered purpose. It clearly communicates what is expected in good times and in bad times. They push you to determine how good you are. We all have unused potential.
This brings me to the topic of pushing (encouraging) employees to be successful. The process starts by getting to know your employees, and finding out what is important to them, and what their hot buttons are. Life is a dynamic process. It welcomes all who accept the invitation to be an active part of it. A leader who nurtures their employees gives us permission to take risks, to improve our strengths and to strive during difficulties and bring spring to a business world too often in the throes of winter. They “push” us to see the sun – great achievement takes place deep inside yourself.
In life we all need a support system to make it through the day. When you run into obstacles, problems and setbacks seek out a trusted business associate or friend and ask for a caring “push.”
Leaders are those who inspire us and indeed push us, helping to shape our own unique experiences and to cope with the unknown, and nurture us to grow and to change. I believe that we are all searching for a life and business existence that is meaningful. A positive “push” can facilitate purpose and growth. As a mother bird pushes her babies out of the nest, we all need a push at times so we can all fly to our potential.
Think about the tremendous power of having people believe in you and themselves! It is a source of energy, motivation and creativity. Leaders who push (encourage) us give us a voice and they listen to that voice. The essence of leadership is guiding (pushing) others to find their path to their potential.
Helen Keller wrote: “I learned that it is possible for us to create light and sound and order within us no matter what calamity may befall us in the outer world.”
To push is to exert force on someone, usually with a hand (or with words) to move them toward a goal or better place. When we are down and out, we need someone to push us! A gentle push can make a huge difference, and it only takes a caring nudge.
When I was in high school and my car wouldn’t start (which was quite frequently), I called a friend and asked for a push. The reality is, in life we all need someone that will give us that push. The right push ignites employees to do more and to be involved more.
Life is meant to be enjoyed and celebrated. Push to bring out the best in others.
Become a pusher!
