Leading By Converting Ideas Into Real Results
Yesterday I had the opportunity to “be present” and show support for a friend of mine that is a great leader and had taken a risk to try something new. Nick Townsend, who the Executive Chef for Ulen Country Club in Lebanon, Indiana, where I am a member, had an idea for having a Saturday afternoon car show. Instead of just talking about it he put his idea into action and did it – yesterday! Of course, he also had a mobile taco bar at the event (see photo of my taco bowl).
I remember first talking to Nick about his idea for the event and I remember thinking, “Boy, I hope he tries this.” There was no doubt, though, because Nick is a doer. As I walked around and visited with attendees I couldn’t help but think about how the term “innovation” has become so cliché. That term is used way more than it is ever be acted on. It has really become another buzz word. I would rather hear about and witness someone like Nick having an idea, taking the risk, and acting on it than just hear someone talking about innovating.
In some ways innovation gets suppressed by leadership and policy. I see it all the time; people are told we want to see innovation, but then are told, “Now, we want you to innovate, but don’t do…” or “Here are your rules for innovating” or “We want you to innovate, just not this way…” I’m pretty sure true innovation has no rules. To be clear I do not want us to quit innovating, but practice it with processes, action, asking, and idea generation instead of just talking about it. It is less about talking and more about doing. Innovate with actions. We need to let people act on their ideas. This will allow the conversion of ideas into real results.
I posted on social media yesterday that some important leadership attributes had been spotlighted at the event:
🔦My friend & Executive Chef Nick Townsend took the risk and put into action having a car show for the first time.
🔦I practiced showing up and “being present” for support.
🔦Taking a risk was a huge success and they are planning to do it every month now.
Acting on ideas ➕ Being Present ➕ Taking Risks 🟰 Leadership
Byron's Babbles 
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