Leaders and TIME

Tme is passing – always.

When we start anything our eyes are almost always on the watch.

What is it about leaders and time?

What happens the team is not prepared, is not ready, not fully briefed?

Confusion can rise, motivation takes a dive - and the project can go off the rails.

Often, when the manager is setting a new project or even an existing one, she or he will focus on “getting it done on time”.

“When will it be finished?” 
“How much longer will it take?” 
“Don’t forget the deadline.”

These are the words of managers. I’m sure we’ve all heard them before at some stage.

Managers of focus on outcomes, timelines, budget restrictions.

All of these contribute to demotivation.

But more than that, these are also the words which contribute to stress levels of the individuals involved.

Exemplary leaders follow a simpler process, which is captured in two words in the English language, which were first used many years ago: Hasten slowly.

Hasten - quickly, fast. 
Slowly. 

In simple terms, this means 'Effectively and quickly prepare for what has to be done, and then when everything is known about the journey to be undertaken, we can move quickly to the outcome.'

The time process for leaders covers short objectives.

The could be achieved in days maybe even hours, and there is likely a time imperative.

The second, longer term outcomes, likely will involve a number of stakeholders, even external stakeholders. They could involved processes which can only be achieved over time. They could include taking the team to the two year vision that’s been set, conducting a coaching program for individuals on the team.

In each case, the leader will clearly define the objectives, identify with the team any possible road blocks or impediments.

The best leaders will make sure that the individual or individuals involved clearly understand what’s required of them.

“Anything you don’t understand or any issues you have along the way, I know you'll can come and talk to me.”

“Are there any issues now that you think will prevent you from meeting the time frame.”

Because of the relationship which exists between leaders and their team, clarity on objectives, constraints which may arise, and support will be very clear. 

So - hasten slowly, mindful of the objectives and issues, live your values, enable the team to do better than that thought they could.

And of course, celebrate their timely successes.