The Leader’s Blind Spot: What Are Your ‘New Clothes’?
Dennis LaRue Jr.
Growing Enriched Leaders/Veteran/Values/Leadership Consultant/Coach
Have you heard the story The Emperor’s New Clothes by Hans Christian Andersen? In this tale, an emperor, eager to showcase his wisdom, is duped into buying an invisible suit that only the competent can see. Proudly parading his "new clothes," he stands out for all the wrong reasons while his court and subjects, fearing judgment, remain silent. Only a child, with innocent honesty, points out the obvious: the emperor isn’t wearing anything at all.
This story is rich with leadership lessons. One that stands out is this: every leader (everyone for that matter) has blind spots. These blind spots are often visible to those around them, even when the leader remains oblivious. The “new clothes” that leaders wear are those unseen weaknesses, the gaps they try to hide but are on full display to their teams.
Leaders, it’s essential to remember that you are human, imperfect, and fallible. Blind spots lose their power once they are recognized and addressed. So, ask yourself: who in your circle has the courage to speak openly to you about your potential blind spots? Are you teachable, receptive to feedback, and willing to grow? Do you cultivate a team that feels safe enough to voice the truth, or have you surrounded yourself with people who mirror you without question? Remember, being approachable, coachable, and open to constructive input sets the foundation for trust and authentic leadership.
Leaders Develop Relationships.
Not only do we have blind spots that we need trusted associates to point out to us and be open to constructive criticism, but at the same time, as good leaders, we need to be looking around the corners to spot the unforeseen events coming our way.
Account Executive at Tulsa Drillers
1moAMEN!!
Author, Speaker, Coach, Trainer, Licensed Brain Health Trainer at Dr. Amen, and Radio Host at Jeffrey Byrd Coaching
1moLove this! Great illustration.
Fighter Pilot | Executive Coach | Leadership Development Consultant| Maxwell DISC Trainer| Process Development Expert|Program Manager| Continuous Improvement Blk Belt| Innovation Engineering Blk Belt
1moAnother great point, Dennis LaRue Jr. - Thank You! When I talk about leadership lessons I learned in a fighter squadron I talk about blind spots. You depend on your wingman to clear your six -- a huge blind spot in the F-111. In the business world, you have to make sure you are open to your team communicating your blind spots, because of course, you are blind to them!