Lean Quote: Leadership Character Plays Role in Performance

On Fridays I will post a Lean related Quote. Throughout our lifetimes many people touch our lives and leave us with words of wisdom. These can both be a source of new learning and also a point to pause and reflect upon lessons we have learned. Within Lean active learning is an important aspect on this journey because without learning we can not improve.

"Building Character Is A Process, Not An Event."   —  Jon Meacham

Leadership creates moments not defined by policy or procedures—situations where leaders have to choose between right and right.

Every day, you make character decisions, consciously or unconsciously, such as between speed or quality and long-term or short-term results. The impact of these decisions either reinforces your team's desired or undesired thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Leadership character is shown to align the leader-follower relationship, increasing both leader and follower productivity, effectiveness, and creativity. Leadership character plays a vital role in unifying a team.

Followers will give more when they respect the leader's character. A focus on helping others is essential to providing effective strategic leadership. Also, character helps leaders navigate change more effectively.

Leadership character is doing the right thing for the right reasons and with the right feelings. It is the inner game of leadership. While leadership behaviors are observable, a leader's inner game quietly controls the leader's behaviors.

Evidence suggests that there are four universal leadership character principles:

Integrity – Being honest, acting consistently with principles, standing up for what is right, and keeping promises.

Responsibility – Owning personal decisions, admitting mistakes, and showing concern for the common good.

Forgiveness – Letting go of self and others' mistakes, focused on what is right versus only what is wrong.

Compassion – Empathizing with others, empowering others, actively caring for others, and committing to others' growth.

A leader's character determines how knowledge, skills, and abilities are applied. Leadership decisions are often based on values, worldviews, and past experiences. Your past, even as a child, has shaped your current perception of what is right or wrong. Family members, friends, religious leaders, and the community where you live and work reinforce your character.

Great leadership is a combination of competence, character, and commitment.