”The behavior of a of a leader translates into concrete observable outcomes.”
-Dennis N.T. Perkins
There is a science to leadership and leadership theory has uncovered many critical vital behaviors.
One consulting group that has done much work in the field of leadership development is The Syncretics Group, an organization that “consultants in leadership and change”. Syncretics Group CEO, Dennis N.T. Perkins has written the enthralling book, Leading at the Edge: Leadership Lessons from the Extraordinary Saga of Shakleton’s Antarctic Expedition.
Leading at the Edge is a life and death story that spotlights vital leadership behaviors in the most treacherous of circumstances. Lessons from this 1914-1916 Trans-Antarctic Expedition led by Sir Ernest Shackleton is the basis for and featured in many of the Syncretics Group programs and trainings on leadership development.
The key to these lessons is how does leadership at the edge of survival translate to ordinary circumstances. As we learn from extremes can we apply those lessons to how we act and lead day in and day out.
The Syncretics Group has identified Ten Strategies for Success that distinguish leaders that succeed from those that fail. See if these are strategies that you apply to your daily intentionality:
- Never lose site of the ultimate goal, and focus energy on short-term objectives.
- Set a personal example with visible, memorable symbols and behaviors.
- Instill optimism and self-confidence, but stay grounded in reality.
- Take care of yourself: Maintain your stamina and let go of guilt.
- Reinforce the team message constantly: “We are one—we live or die together”.
- Minimize status differences and insist on courtesy and mutual respect.
- Master conflict—deal with anger in small doses, engage dissidents, and avoid needless power struggles.
- Find something to celebrate and something to laugh about.
- Be willing to take the Big Risk.
- Never give up — there’s always another move.
A pretty good set of strategies to rule your day—or a great adventure!