Are you wrestling alligators?

July 27, 2011 - 23:32 -- Dr. Ada

aligator close up

The other day I saw a sign that reads:

“When you're up to your backside in alligators, it’s hard to remember that your goal is to drain the swamp.”

I immediately thought of some leaders I know who spend most of their time and energy “locked into a death spiral with the alligators” instead of focusing on providing direction, strategizing, or turning a vision into reality.

Sounds familiar?

Are you constantly being pulled into the mire of solving seemingly urgent problems that don’t let you focus on “draining the swamp?”

If so, stop wrestling alligators and change your focus. Keep your sight on the big picture and delegate to others the details of the daily operations.

  • Take time for strategic thinking, planning, and visioning.

  • Take time to train, coach, and support.

  • Take time to know your people, communicate, and appreciate.

Remember. . .

Your goal is to create the best environment possible, and to support your people. Let them take care of the alligators. You keep your focus on the bigger goals.

Share your thoughts

What are you doing to supporting your team members?

What helps you to resist the temptation to personally wrestle with the alligators?

I would love to know what you think, so please share your thoughts with your fellow readers and myself.

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Photo by: limacphee