Spring Is the Best Time to Grow as a Leader

The arrival of spring is a great time to evaluate, as a leader, how good you feel about your work. Determine what specific goals your business as a whole, or even specific integral teams, are not meeting. Then pinpoint the resources and training needed to promote growth.

As Chief Executive Officer of Pathway Health, I could lean back on my three decades of health care operations and development experience. Instead, I have made a concerted effort to stay refreshed and weed out bad habits. One source of inspiration has been Sir Richard Branson, an adventurer, icon and the founder of the Virgin Group. Being in the limelight, he has never shied away from a challenge…achieving success “The Virgin Way.”

In Richard Branson’s book published last year, “The Virgin Way: Everything I Know About Leadership,” he takes a powerful, straightforward approach to dolling out advice to the business world. He gives four simple bits of instruction:

1. Listen
As Richard Branson says, “You never learn anything by listening to yourself speak.” A person who is truly paying attention will take notes and ask questions. After a meeting, or listening session, you should have a short list of simple takeaways.

2. Learn
A conducive learning environment doesn’t have to be stuffy. A more social atmosphere, like a Lunch & Learn, might go a long way to break down barriers. And, you should learn from team members at all levels—if you were smart enough to hire experts who have the knowledge you lack.

3. Laugh
Richard Branson is a true champion of a people-first company culture. Any leader should know that happy, engaged employees produce satisfied clients and customers. A fun environment is what drives success. Don’t wait for a commercial triumph to create a happy business atmosphere.

4. Lead
Leading is more than being a mentor to your team, but also steering your industry, or even the general public, in a better direction. But remember, to be a limelight leader, you must focus on presentation and great publicity. As Richard Branson says, “Be visible, take risks, get creative, make yourself heard.”

 

Debby Schuna
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Pathway Health