“Do or do not…there is no try” said the Jedi Master, Yoda, to the young Luke Skywalker. I was a youngster when The Empire Strikes Back was in theaters. I loved that line then and I love it today. It can be used in a variety of settings. However, as I have been thinking about leadership the last few weeks, it has become apparent that some of us get stagnant and don’t really commit to growth as leaders. We say we’ll try, but we don’t really.
I once gave a copy of a leadership book by Doug Dickerson “Leaders Without Borders” to my boss. He was quite busy, yet he read the book within the next week. He didn’t even say he’d “try” to read it, but rather that he would read it on his next trip while he was flying . . . and he did!
If we have committed to being leaders then it is a lifelong commitment that requires lifelong learning. Because I read a John Maxwell book years ago or earned a leadership award or received a promotion does not mean I am growing as a leader. You never arrive at the final leader destination. It is a constant journey.
Fortunately, we do not have to reinvent the wheel. Leadership growth, leadership models and leadership examples exist nearly everywhere we look. You may have role models. You might have a mentor. You may just soak in the readings, videos, and seminars of those that can provide insights. Regardless, I encourage you to avoid complacency and instead, latch on a lifelong habit of continual learning. Do you care enough to grow today . . . tomorrow . . . and in the future?
Jamy Bechler is a former college basketball coach and championship high school athletic director. He is also a John Maxwell Certified Leadership Speaker and Coach. Contact him at CoachBechler@CoachBechler.com to find out how you or your team can be more successful.