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In hierarchical systems, the “top dog” calls the shots. It’s an intense responsibility, especially when keeping the needs of an organization, of the individual employees, and of those waiting on the fruits of the labors of the enterprise. That role of leading, accommodates the varying demands of short- and long-term needs, and a host of other variables.

The more numerous instances of leading occur by every person who aligns themselves with the mission of an organization, whether drawing a paycheck or not. This decision-making involves shuffling priorities, time constraints, tasks of competing impact or significance, and the shrills of various urgent demands. Because these get done day-to-day, week-in and week-out, it’s possible to lose sight of the enormous matrix of processing that underlies the performance by every member.

In light of the “Stay Home. Stay Connected. Stay Safe” executive order brought into effect today by the governor, it’s nearly certain that that smooth, subconscious routine is going to be severely jostled. 

Here is where personal leadership becomes telling and also at risk of being hidden (in the short term). Is anyone really watching? But posing a different question can shine light of comfort that also provokes. What practices and behaviors, what tasks done well (or pursued with continuous improvement) will accrue to stronger results? What character can I embody that will, in hindsight a year from now, play a role in the profound story of emergence from a crisis, a national and global crisis?

The most important person you lead is you. So much rests within our control right now in how we undertake the work at hand.  Look for it. Give yourself some advice. Pursue excellence. At the end of the day, tell a colleague how proud you are of you.