The Power of Showing vs. Telling: A Crucial Leadership Trait

My son has been facing a tough season of soccer in his first season back, post-COVID. His excitement to dive back into the sport was real. However, despite his enthusiasm, it's been a challenging journey for him, and I can't help but feel that the coaching he's received hasn't adequately supported his development.

Now, this isn't a critique of the coaches themselves. As a volunteer coach, I understand the immense responsibility that comes with the role.

During his game this weekend, I couldn't help but notice a significant disparity in coaching approaches between our team and the opposition. As I observed our coaches' halftime instructions—mostly directives like "get open," "play defense," "pass the ball"—I couldn't shake the feeling that they were predominantly "telling" the players what to do.

Conversely, on the opposing side of the field, the coaching method was markedly different. Their use of whiteboards and in-game demonstrations were actively "showing" the players where to position themselves, providing tangible examples to enhance understanding.

This stark contrast got me contemplating the parallels between coaching strategies on the soccer field and leadership dynamics in the business world.

In leadership, there's a fundamental principle that often makes the difference between inspiring teams and merely giving orders: showing versus telling.

As leaders, it's easy to fall into the trap of dictating what needs to be done without demonstrating it ourselves. However, the real magic happens when we lead by example, showing our teams the way forward through our actions rather than just telling them what to do.

Here's why this distinction is crucial:

1️⃣ Inspiration through Demonstration: Actions speak louder than words. When we show our team members how to approach challenges, handle situations, and embody our values through our own behavior, we inspire them to follow suit. Leading by example sets a standard and creates a culture of excellence.

2️⃣ Building Trust and Respect: Trust is the cornerstone of effective leadership. When we roll up our sleeves and dive into the work alongside our team, we earn their trust and respect. It shows that we're not just giving directives from an ivory tower but are willing to get our hands dirty and be part of the solution.

3️⃣ Fostering Growth and Development: By demonstrating skills, problem-solving strategies, and decision-making processes, we provide valuable learning opportunities for our team members. They can observe, learn, and grow by witnessing firsthand how we navigate various situations.

4️⃣ Creating a Unified Vision: Actions have the power to align a team towards a common goal. When we embody the vision and values we espouse, it becomes more than just rhetoric—it becomes a tangible reality that motivates and unites everyone towards a shared purpose.

In essence, showing versus telling is not just about communication—it's about leadership in its purest form. It's about being the kind of leader who doesn't just talk about what needs to be done but actively participates in making it happen.

So, let's remember: the next time we're faced with an opportunity to lead, let's show, not just tell.