E276: Why Leaders Don't Wait for Instructions

“(Most) people want instructions.”- once said Armine Sargsyan

Do you? (reflect with truth before you answer yourself)

Imagine a bustling organization filled with diligent staff, each waiting for the next directive from their boss. The hum of anticipation and the ticking clock represent the tempo of the modern workplace. But in the midst of this orchestrated routine, true leaders stand apart. They don't wait for instructions. They don't ask for permission. They take initiative and move forward. (And if it fails, they apologize...but try again) This fundamental difference (among others) sets apart those who lead from those who follow.

The Comfort of Instructions

For many, the comfort of instructions is irresistible. Instructions are clear, definitive, and safe. They tell us exactly what to do, reducing uncertainty and risk. Following instructions means you won't make mistakes—at least not ones that you're solely responsible for. This is the realm of compliance, where the fear of stepping out of line can be overwhelming.

But this isn’t where innovation lives. (One reason for that could be highly directive, over-controlling, detail-freak, my-way-only bosses with low tolerance to mistakes and imperfection and who create cultures of intimidation, fear and criticism that suffocates the spirit of innovation and initiative. Do/did you work for such a boss? Are you that boss?...Dare to ask your staff to help you with the answer!)

The Essence of Leadership

Leaders thrive in the unknown (rpt: unknown, chaos, uncertainty...).

They understand that waiting for instructions is a form of procrastination, a delay in action that could mean missed opportunities. Leadership is about taking risks, making decisions, and moving forward with conviction, even (especially) when the path is unclear. Leaders don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect plan because they know those moments rarely come (never come). Instead, they create their own momentum.

Permission Is Overrated

Waiting for permission is another trap. It's a convenient excuse to avoid taking action. But leaders know that waiting for permission often means waiting indefinitely. Some people don’t like this but in all my talks, interactions, books and blog posts, I consistently highlight the importance of initiative, especially when we or the system we belong to are stuck. Why? is there another way, if we are talking about leadership? Most successful individuals and organizations (that adapt, evolve and grow) are those who don’t wait to be told what to do. They start. They initiate. They lead. (scary? welcome to the world of leadership)

The Initiative Imperative

Taking initiative isn’t just about being proactive. It’s about setting a collective vision and rallying others around it. It’s about seeing what needs to be done and doing it, not because someone told you to, but because it’s the right thing to do. This kind of leadership (the only kind) inspires others. It creates a ripple effect where more people feel empowered to take initiative themselves.

Moving Forward

In a world that often rewards compliance, it’s easy to fall into the trap of waiting for instructions (the school teacher of my 12-year-old son wrote a comment in his end of year score card saying he was not good at following instructions. She put a smile on face. Well done son!). True leaders understand that progress is made by those who act, who dare to take the first step without needing a roadmap. They don’t ask, “Is it okay if I do this?” Instead, they say, “Here’s what I’m doing and why.” (what if it doesn't work? they learn then pivot, finetune, correct/change course - in spite of the inevitable criticisms)

So, what does this mean for you? Whether you’re an aspiring leader, boss, or a seasoned executive, the message is clear: Don’t wait. Don’t ask for permission. Take initiative. Make decisions. Move forward (after strategic reflection). The world needs more leaders who are willing to step up, take risks, and create change. The question is, will you be one of them?

Michael - Leaders don’t wait. They lead.

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