This article was originally published in a sponsored newsletter.
Lauren Balterman and I were discussing her client and our mutual friend, Dr. F, who owns a practice in eastern Florida. Dr. F chose optometry because of her passion for treating and healing patients and solving problems. However, as her career evolved to practice ownership, her role transitioned from solely providing patient care to leading and managing a team – an undertaking for which she was not prepared.
Like Dr. F, many professionals question their leadership abilities as they face the challenges of steering their teams amid recurring issues. Using the steps outlined below that Dr. F implemented, let's explore how you can embark on a leadership journey.
Reactivity and Leadership
When leaders receive feedback about problems, it often causes a cascade of reactive measures. One instinct may be to jump into the fire, believing you are demonstrating an effective way to manage by immersing yourself in the chaos. Others may choose to tackle issues personally, taking on their teams’ tasks and handling problems without trusting their team. The micromanagement that results becomes a formidable challenge to overcome.
Reacting quickly and diving into a problem places you underwater, inside the burning building or whatever metaphor resonates with you, making leadership impossible. When you are submerged, long-term solutions become elusive as your focus narrows to the immediate issue. Moreover, it sets a negative tone for the entire team.
Change Your Perspective
The belief that good leaders demonstrate their commitment to their team by being in the trenches is admirable in theory. However, you don't have to adopt every problem as your own to show the team you care. Instead, convey empathy through guidance.
So, zoom out, take a step back or, as Lauren tells her clients, “Take a beat.” Gain clarity to see the real issue because problems in your practice are often symptoms of deeper, underlying issues.
How You Live Is How You Lead
Many business owners take everything personally because they feel as though every aspect of the business reflects on them. When problems arise, it may feel like a personal loss. However, even with a commitment to excellence, it's essential to acknowledge that you are human. You are allowed to experience problems. Therefore, managing yourself before others becomes crucial.
Here’s a real-time guide to self-regulation:
Physically remove yourself from the situation. Step away from the office or phone – wherever the problem was communicated.
Emotionally regulate. Bring your heart rate down, breathe and validate your emotions.
Communicate with your team. Let them know you will be in touch. Tell them that you aren’t leaving them in the dark, but that you need some time before taking steps forward.
Gather the data. Understand the problem, its origins and its implications for you and the business.
Plan. Devise the next steps to address and resolve the issue.
A key aspect of effective leadership is the ability to communicate from a grounded, composed place and respond to situations with calm strength, rather than panic and chaotic energy. Apply this process whenever an issue arises, both at the start of your leadership journey and as you scale.
Also, be sure to prioritize your well-being. Your team responds to your energy and leadership style, and it sets the tone for the culture. While this responsibility may feel weighty, it's a healthy pressure for you to take care of yourself, and it inspires your team to do the same. This approach fosters respect, builds trust with your team and sets the stage for long-term success.
Start Your Journey
The journey from practitioner to proficient leader involves more than just tactical solutions. It requires a fundamental shift in mindset and approach. Dr. F has adjusted her mindset to lead with clarity by embracing self-management and prioritizing her well-being. Her eye care practice thrives as a result. As you navigate the winding road of leadership, follow Dr. F’s lead. May each step forward bring you closer to the leader you aspire to be – one who steers with wisdom, resilience and a vision for sustained success.
