From Managers To Leaders

As we move into the fall and winter months, nature once again is showing us wisdom. The color of the leaves is changing from the deep greens to reds, yellows and oranges. The air is turning crisp and cool and animals are preparing for the cold days ahead. But I digress; I wanted to focus this week on the colors of the changes we are seeing around us. Some people are fascinated by the idea that the colors come out this time of year. That nature forces this dramatic change in the woods all around us. But that is not the case. The colors of change are always around us and within us.

On the biological level trees and in turn leaves contain chlorophyll. This is a chemical that turns a leaf the green that we see. Since during the spring and summer the greens are so bright it actually covers the other colors that the leaves still contain. As the days become shorter trees have less light and water to make chlorophyll in such high amounts. As a result the greens die back and we see the other bright magnificent colors that trees are capable of.
The interesting lesson is that the colors are always there and could always come out. But instead they are being over shadowed by the more popular color. Still they have a chance to shine and as such have become a huge attraction during a slowing time of year. By reaching deep inside yourself you too can find the colors that have always existed and bring them to the surface. The more you draw deeply into your change mindset the brighter your colors will shine.

The evergreens and holly bushes are the constant reminders that we have people in our lives that are unchanging. For good or for bad they are the constants in our lives that during the turmoil of change we can fall back on. As we look to bring our own colors out, we should also review these color constants. Are they fitting with our new role? Can they provide the support we need during the hard times of change and growth? As fall continues and winter comes knocking, don’t fear the changes that nature shows us. Use them as examples of how you can change and grow in your own life.

What would a leader do?
~ Look beyond your teams regular colors to find the colors they are hiding deep inside. Work with them to embrace change and bring those colors to the surface.
~ Evaluate your evergreens. Are they positive or negative? Is it time to embrace or change them?
~ Change is a powerful thing. Take time to find resources that can help you and your team embrace it.
~ Look at my store for Nature of Leadership resources.