What we can learn from GenZ, while they learn from us

A discussion with my daughter on leadership #Lockdowntales

Last Saturday evening, while we went out for a walk, I asked Aditi, my daughter about her thoughts on leadership. While most of us were still discovering ourselves at that age, she surprisingly was very clear on what kind of a leader she wanted to be.

She said she evolved this based on what she gathered by observing those around her , teachers, co students and also through her personal experience of holding positions in school councils, internships and service initiatives.

We boiled it down to 5 key principles. Do have a glance and share your stories with me.

1. Instill a sense of purpose

 Aditi says: Heading a team doesn’t just mean ensuring they know what and how to do, what they need to do but also making sure everyone has a clear vision of why they’re doing it. Having a sense of purpose inspires people to perform to their maximum potential, meet and surpass their goals.

For instance, when US President John F. Kennedy visited NASA in 1962, he introduced himself to a janitor and asked the man what he was doing. The janitor replied “Well, Mr. President, I’m helping put a man on the moon.” A strong sense of purpose not only gives you a feeling of contribution but it also gives your entire team a collective goal, thereby instilling a feeling of oneness.

My thoughts: First of all I loved this example, and believe this is truly a starting point to higher order leadership. If we can bind teams, with a purpose and get them to believe in it, they will surmount any challenge and will enjoy the journey!

2.You’re not the smartest person in the room

Aditi says: Being a leader does not translate into knowing the most all the time, it means that you can perceive, support and advance the best ideas and also those who are experts. It is key to allow people to achieve excellence on their own terms while guiding them, to accomplish a common vision.

My thoughts: Leadership is about surrounding yourself with smarter people than you, helping them unleash their potential, and in the process learning from them.Leadership is all about being a lifelong learner.

3. Never Give Up

Aditi says: This is an expected point on the list, however it is key to know that being a leader means trying again and again and not losing hope when things don’t go right. One of the most important qualities of a leader is the ability to reflect and rectify.

My thoughts: Here I completely agree with her, As Nelson Mandela said “I never lose. I either win or learn” A true quality of a leader is to always BE with the people, no matter what happens. Keep your own and their spirits high to face a situation better.

4. Listen, don't talk

Aditi says: Hear everyone in your team, and promote their views. You will be heard because of your role, however it is imperative for your team to know you will listen to them and that you are open to debate and insight on any decision being made. Sometimes we may overlook things, but exchanging ideas is key to growth.

My thoughts: This is where most leaders struggle.However, listening is the key to bringing out the best ideas from your team members, equally helping them grow in confidence and stature. When you listen you open your mind to new thoughts and new solutions.

5. Lead from the back

 Aditi says: The well known saying “You're only as fast as your slowest member” is sacrosanct when it comes to leadership. It is exactly what you must follow when working with a team; push your team forward to achieve their best and be there to catch those who fall short. Encourage their ideas instead of preaching your own, and always have their back.

My thoughts: This is one of the exceptional qualities of a leader. If you really want to be successful it is important to help your team grow. Let others take the podium and encourage them as you grow with them.

As I reflect on my daughters impressions and my thoughts on leadership, not much has changed in the core understandings of a 50 and a 16 year old, has it ?