Calling Your Own Shots

A successful leader was talking with me recently. He told me that his leaders had called him in for a meeting. He was told that changes were coming on a corporate level, but not to worry. They said he could decide where he wanted to contribute in the new organizational structure. His boss realized that he was respected and valued by his peers and team. This executive could now "call his own shots." Once the massive reduction was complete, he would have a new position of his choosing. Sounds like a great opportunity for this leader, right? Wrong. There was a dilemma. This leader knew that the new leadership philosophy of the company did not align with his core values as a leader. While he clearly understood his responsibility to lead through the transition well, he also struggled with his personal desire to lead well. With the organizational structure change came a different set of values and leadership style. This leader's integrity caused him to consider more than his own positional success. While he has not found a solution to his dilemma, the leader is willing to ask the hard questions and consider the difficult options. He is truly "calling his own shots." When our values and leadership principles are threatened, it is our responsibility to authentically question if we are in the right place. Choose to "call your own shots" by leading with your integrity instead of your pride, and you will make a difference!

Dr. Larry Little, CEO