Reaching Back to Step Forward

Too often leaders forget the most important step. It’s really about taking a step back that matters. Taking time to reach back and then to move forward enables the best leaders to propel themselves forward. Let me explain.

The presumed thought is that leaders must move themselves forward at all cost. Traditional and individualistic theory assumes that a leader would put just him- or herself first, do what they must to preserve self, and celebrate individual accomplishments.

But, in fact leaders do more to propel themselves when they reach back to those coming behind them. Taking on a protégé to nurture and support is a reasonable first step. Advising a rising leader is another way to share wisdom.

Reaching back just makes sense. Frequently there are leaders who leave a position and do not have replacements. Other times a protégé is ready to assume the leadership role and can shadow with a mentor learning even more. Likewise, lessons learned along the way helps leaders remember their contributions and share the insight. Finally, knowing the mistakes to avoid helps the advocate support the rising leader.

Dawn McCoy, author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success

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