For a while (we don’t know why), VIM Executive Coaching was on an annual report mailing list when slick, book-like annual reports were still a thing. We must admit that they sometimes caused more than a few questions and comments around our Denver offices.
Invariably, there were one or two featured rising stars, always described as “dynamic” or “inspiring” leaders. If such language was not used outright, the photography was dramatic to a fault. You just knew the leader was the organizational prototype of excellence. She or he was seen in designer clothing, or dressed “blue collar” at a construction site or posed in formal wear at concerts or similar cultural events. It is no wonder that the rest of us (you know, the folks who just do the work and strive for quality), always feel a bit inferior.
Before and After
The funny part about those reports was often that the following year or so, the leaders of excellence were nowhere to be found; not a photo or mention in the report. In fact, more than a few of those organizations and the dynamos who were the rising stars went Chapter 11, or got acquired following lackluster performances, or frankly, were mentioned in online newspaper or business magazine articles as having stepped-down pending investigations or irregularities.
From time to time, some of the so-called, rising stars went from gorgeous annual report photos to YouTube videos of them leaving courthouses with a cadre of lawyers yelling, “No comment, no comment!”
While we are being just a bit dramatic about the YouTube video clips (though it has clearly happened) it underscores an important point: there is no one organizational prototype of excellence leader. There is no particular university of origin, nor a certain look, a certain way of dressing or speaking or acting. Some organizations would like to think that is true, and in fact, some organizations insist that their executives attend a specific leadership academy, study the same self-help books, listen to the same podcasts and mold their entire careers after a singular school of thought.
A Strange Model
The world’s best executive leader is staring at you in the mirror. That is where you will find them. The best executive leaders are the best version of you. Is that model strange in your eyes, or can you visualize yourself being effective, mindful and responsive in the moment?
The best executive leaders don’t talk or look or dress or act the same. The best executive leaders are authentic, mindful and compassionate. If the leader is mindful and open to change; if the leader is willing to be responsive rather than reactive and to view challenges and opportunities with the heart as well as the intellect, the more effective they will be.
Mindfulness is cultivated. It is an inner journey. And, while Vim Executive Coaching can help guide you on your journey, there are no magic books or expressions of organizational speak to assure your success. However, rest assured you have greatness and leadership qualities far beyond your imagination. Simply look in the mirror and you will find them. Please ask us to help you get started.