Thoughts on Leadership
By Beth Ward
My mom used to call me from New York and ask me to do something that was there. I of course helped, but I did ask her why she didn’t have someone close by to help her. She said: I have learned that if you ask the busiest person you know to do something, it will usually get done. She said there are doers in this world and there are complainers. I took that to heart. I was humbled by her compliment as her opinion meant everything to me. I have found that if you aren’t willing to do something, even when it is uncomfortable, then being stuck in the complaint is where you will stay. Stuck in your own thoughts on how things are wrong, or how people have wronged you, but you provide no productive voice or action to the possibilities of true change. I have carried that lesson with me my whole adult life and through my career. Through communication, collaboration, and research most problems can be solved or certainly improved.
As a life-long learner, I value each lesson, even when it’s painful. I have learned that we lose the people we value the most, so make the best of every single day. I have learned that kindness always trumps evil and gratitude always trumps greed. One of my favorite Police Department Chaplains said: “God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason.” If you truly listen and let people in to be heard, you will earn trust, which is the start to resolving issues. With trust, you are more productive and able to hold each other accountable. That is true if you are on the street, on a team, in a meeting, or talking with your family. ‘Vulnerability is Courage’ (Brene Brown), to effect true change and be a good leader, you need to be vulnerable and open to change, and that takes courage.
Leaders are teachers! Whenever I think about training I always start with the end in mind. What are the learning objectives and more importantly WHY? Helping people understand why we do things, and how their role fits into the overall organizational picture, helps solidify their commitment to do their best. Invest in people, the return is worth it!
Great leaders want you to replace them one day. They share information freely on what they have learned, what to watch out for, and why they show up each day. It’s not just for the paycheck, trust me! I aspire to be a great leader and will keep on trying. I have had irreplaceable mentors in life and recommend finding one or more to help you. I encourage you to ask difficult questions, have uncomfortable conversations, never stop learning, and live a full and colorful life! Lead with heart, and safeguard yours by maintaining boundaries and life outside of work.
Nearly 25 years ago, on my first day at SVPD, I was given a paperweight with a quote that is still on my desk today. The quote by Winston Churchill is my life motto: “Never Never Never Give Up!” I hope each of you leads courageously with a grateful heart!