Leaders must be passionate about their cause. They also need to acknowledge their limits while working to their maximum strength. Most importantly, they need to lead by example. This means recognizing that they simply cannot do everything on their own. Help is sometimes needed. Leaders know that utilizing the many capabilities within a team or organization is how great work is performed
Strategic thinking is crucial for leaders and their teams, because it allows one to look into the future. When leaders are able to accept “I do not know” as an answer, they are then able to promote strategic thinking and a purpose-driven work environment. Strategic thinking fosters the ability to envision, predict, and plan ahead. It acknowledges that all of the answers may not be known, but it encourages the discovery of them.
Purpose-driven employees find inspiration in their work and seek out opportunities for personal and professional development. As they see innovative progress, their productivity and momentum increase. They are more engaged, perform better on performance evaluations, and feel that their work is worth more than a simple paycheck.
The right environment can attract and nurture a culture that strategically thinks. Create opportunities that have purpose and fill the skills gaps. Appreciate when an employee or team uncovers the answer to a problem or challenge and reward strategic thinking as well. This will provide motivation, pride, and an increase in overall productivity.
Allowing others to utilize their unique strengths will foster a strategic thinking and purpose-driven environment. Once you are able to accept that you and your staff will not always have the answers, this will open up opportunities to maximize everyone’s potential. It will increase productivity, motivation, job satisfaction, and retention.
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