Oldlife_new_life_sA leader in transition will benefit from renewing their mind. Several years ago, I remember sitting in my physician’s office waiting for my annual physical. After sharing pleasantries, we started to chat about my blood work. He mentioned I gained ten pounds and my cholesterol was on the rise. At that time my diet was questionable and I allowed my work schedule to erode my exercise regimen. As our meeting closed, he challenged me regarding my lifestyle. I had to recognize I needed to change my patterns of behavior. I had to let go of my heavy indulgence of what I perceived as the good stuff, bacon, sausage and burgers (rubbing my stomach with a smile).
I had to transition to a diet that was conducive to lowering my cholesterol. I decided to go on a mission to eat less meat. My plan included more beans and greens to get lean and mean. My doctor enlightened and assisted me in renewing my mind regarding my life style. He is part of my advisory board or wisdom group to help me through transitions so I can think and stay healthy.

I would like you to ponder the following:

  • Leaders will go through personal and professional transitions, it’s just a part of life.
  • Many leaders have been in their roles for a several years and have formed bad habits that may have gone unnoticed.
  • Some leaders have tendencies that aren’t necessarily bad but they do not fit into the culture of some organizations.
  • Some leaders to gravitate towards what they enjoy the most (to gain wins) instead of focusing on high-profile business challenges.

Are you aware of these tendencies?
Will your tendencies or incompatible idiosyncrasies hurt or help you when you land that new leadership position?

What is your transition plan when you land that awesome new job as a leader? You may have heard the saying, “To whom much is given, much is required.” As you marvel while reading the crisp offer letter (you will get the job), consider assembling your wisdom group to help you create a stellar transition plan. Please don’t get comfortable thinking that you have already mastered the new role. In others words, you think what made you successful in your last role will transfer to the new role. Thoughts of that nature may lead to big trouble. With careful thought and renewing your mind daily, you can stay healthy and recognize the difference between the good and bad stuff.

  1. Recognize
  2. Evaluate
  3. Seek advice
  4. Plan
  5. Execute

“Not in his goals but in transitions is man great.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson