Recently a friend and I engaged in a light banter about how aspiring leaders know when they are ready to step up to the plate. We exchanged ideas that some people work at it, others step onto a “platform” and yet others assume a bully pulpit without reservation.
Regardless of how leaders assume their position, attempts to have influence or lead others depends upon several variables. This is a basic concept of author and management expert Ken Blanchard in his situational leadership 
model. Not only does the situation depend upon the leader’s style but success depends also upon the readiness of the protégé or subordinate. For instance, can you recall the famous scene from this famous movie Karate Kid?
The young apprentice did not even know he was being coached and prepared by Mr. Miyagi until his instructor tested him one day. There was no memo that he was “graduating” to the next level in his training but rather a rite of passage that he was ready to implement all that he learned. He was ready!
What an opportunity for rising leaders to stand ready like the Karate Kid willing to do the chores and tasks in preparation for a leadership role and new set of skills. Let’s all take the opportunity to learn from mentors, coaches, and advocates!
Dawn McCoy
Author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success
