Leadership, in essence, is a journey of transformation. As Seth Godin aptly puts it, “Transformational leaders don’t start by denying the world around them. Instead, they describe a future they would like to create.” This episode dives deep into the core of transformational leadership, highlighting the vital trait of “Accept and Let Go.”
The Ferris Wheel of Change
Accepting and letting go isn’t easy. It’s akin to a ride on a Ferris wheel; it only makes sense when you experience it. On my journey with young minds, I’ve realized that change is omnipresent. However, before one can embrace external transformation, it begins with internal clarity. For me, clarity begins at home.
A Journey of Rediscovery
May of 2023, we embarked on a month-long tour of the US. My excitement was palpable as I was returning after nearly 16 years. While our itinerary was meticulously planned with my son Abhinav, my focus was on the adventure ahead, unaware that this trip would reveal profound lessons in transformation.
Abhinav had taken charge of our entire journey, from planning our itinerary to making all necessary arrangements. As he confidently said, “See you at 6, and then I will take you all for dinner at this new Mexican restaurant,” I couldn’t help but notice how much he had grown.
From Leading to Following
Our trip was centered around Abhinav’s graduation from Stonybrook College in New York. Reflecting on our first family trip to the US in 2004, the contrast was stark. Back then, I was in control, managing everything. Abhinav, then nine, was a curious observer. Fast forward 19 years, and roles had reversed. He meticulously planned our travels, selected hotels, rented cars, and booked flights.
At first, I struggled with this new dynamic. As a parent, shouldn’t I be making the decisions? But by the second week, it was clear that leadership is about trust and allowing others to step up.
Trust and Transformation
A pivotal moment occurred at the New York airport when my credit card failed to work on the Lyft app. Abhinav immediately offered his card. This set the tone for the rest of our trip, where he led the way, and I followed. This role reversal was humbling and joyous, highlighting the strength of our bond and his emerging leadership skills.
Back in 2004, I might have behaved similarly, guiding and leading. Now, I was witnessing my son taking on that role, filling me with pride. This transformation mirrored the satisfaction leaders feel when they see their team members grow and succeed.
The Power of Letting Go
Embracing this new reality required me to accept and let go of control. If I hadn’t, I would have missed the joy of seeing Abhinav lead. This experience underscores the importance of trusting others to lead, fostering a supportive and responsible team, and developing future leaders.
A Symbiotic Relay Race
Think back to when you first showed your parents around your new posting city. The pride and responsibility you felt are similar to what leaders experience when they pass the baton. Leadership is a relay race, and your role is to guide, nurture, and eventually step back, allowing others to shine.
As Jack Welch once said, “Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.” This quote beautifully captures the essence of leadership. A good leader nurtures and guides their team and steps back when the time is right.
Embracing Transformational Leadership
In a business context, transformational leadership promotes engagement, motivation, and productivity. It nurtures future leaders and fosters innovative solutions. So, the next time you find yourself in a role reversal, embrace it with joy, let go, and keep moving forward.
Call to Action
In our next blog, we’ll share a real-life story of a simple man who realized his vision of a sustainability project in the heart of a metro. Stay tuned for more insights to help you on your leadership journey towards tomorrow.
Amit Chawla (Business Clarity Coach)
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