In Andrea Clarke’s book “Future Fit” she refers to requirements for individuals to have their own Board of Directors to support them through the challenging times and celebrate the highlights. She asks us to reflect on our friendship base.
Who will:
Listen to us without judgement,
Provide candid advice,
Initiate the uncomfortable conversation.
Hold us accountable,
Check in for a status update.
My grandfather was maybe not as refined as Andrea Clarke, but I do remember him saying to me, “Always surround yourself with winners, Luke. Both professionally and personally.”
Winners is a great concept however there are plenty of winning teams that do not transfer to supporting individuals.
The Board of Directors, Andrea refers to are the people who are part of your advisory team. Like King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.
King Arthur’s physical concept of the Round Table was to hear every respected knight’s opinion, perspective or advice on any situation that was on the table. Arthur was appreciative of expanding his knowledge to make better informed decisions.
I believe this concept of sitting at your Round Table with Your Team is a must. Too many times leaders are left with their own thoughts and distractions. There are many times you can feel like a solo educator.
People are busy and you feel reluctant to disturb them to ask for advice, an opinion or a perspective. This is why Your Team is different. They are willing to help and ready to answer the call.
Having a Team of respected people who you trust, respect and listen to, will elevate and expand your thinking. Save you from spending energy on projects with no benefits. Broaden your thinking that builds your conviction behind your decision.
A member of your Team is always available for a chat, a discussion, a de brief. They know they are there for you and your thoughts in your professional and personal world.
There have been many times driving home having challenging conversations with one of my Team members.
Rather than feeling awkward to contact someone for fear of rejection, I feel excited that the issues, thoughts, celebrations or challenges I have, can be shared with a respected friend who can read the situation and react appropriately.
One current time was a car conversation with Katrina Burke author of “Mapping your Leadership Sacred Ground” who said, after 3 minutes of empathetic listening, “What I am hearing Luke is a common thread and a word that keeps reoccurring – Courage. What is Courage to you?”
This was a defining moment in my quest to support educators. Katrina had seen another perspective of my thoughts that I was blind to. Katrina Burke is on Team Luke.
No Team uniforms. No training. No contracts. It is a team people want to be part of for their contribution to others. They believe in you. They believe in your journey. They want to see you succeed. They are on your team. You just need to ask.
Recruiting Your Team
What if you had a group of individuals you could trust with your vulnerability? Who understood your challenges, aspirations and goals? Who accepted you for you without judgement?
Welcome to Your Team.
A small group of people who you know, and they know you. Individuals who are at the other end of the phone to answer your call and listen with empathy. No one should go solo when leading.
What does a Team member do?
Listen with empathy.
Advise without judgement.
Offer perspective.
Challenge when necessary.
Write down a number of friends / colleagues who you seek advice from and would fit the above criteria as a Team member. The next step is to ask them to be on Your Team.
There are different roles Team Members play depending on their relationship with you. There are some people who know your back story from very young who are the rocks of stability for you. These people are usually confidants. You are most vulnerable with your confidants.
The Four Team Member Roles
The Confidant
The Cheerleader
The Coach
The Capitalist
The Confidant: Knows You
Characteristics: Trustworthy, approachable, and an excellent listener. The confidant provides a safe space for you to share your thoughts, concerns, and ideas without fear of judgment.
Contribution: Builds trust within yourself and helps resolve internal conflicts by mediating and offering support.
The Cheerleader: Supports You
Characteristics: Energetic, enthusiastic, and always ready to celebrate successes, no matter how small. The cheerleader is positive, encouraging, and fosters a sense of excitement for your journey.
Contribution: Boosts your morale by celebrating achievements, recognises your successes, and spreads a contagious enthusiasm that motivates others.
The Coach: Challenges You.
Characteristics: Supportive, knowledgeable, and committed to personal and professional development. The coach provides guidance, constructive feedback, and helps you develop your skills.
Contribution: Facilitates continuous improvement, promotes a learning culture, and helps you reach your full potential. The coach contributes to the overall growth and success of you by providing guidance and mentorship.
The Capitalist: Advises You
Characteristics: Strategic thinker, financially savvy, and resourceful. The capitalist understands your financial constraints and helps you make sound financial decisions.
Contribution: Ensures financial stability, challenges you on financial choices, suggests resources wisely, and provides a sense of security through confidence of breaking down the financial unknown. This role helps the team focus on their work without unnecessary financial stress.
Having individuals in these roles on Your Team ensures a well-rounded approach to fostering a positive you. Each role plays a unique part in contributing to your motivation, and overall success.
Review the names you wrote down.
Which role for who?
Are some people in multiply roles?
Have you got all roles covered?
How many would be sitting at your Round Table?
Do you need to recruit some Team members?
Of course, you can offer to sit at their Round Tables and be on their Team.
Who would they be?
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