We have all said it. When we were little it was often a defiant verbalization directed toward a friend or a sibling. When we became adults it typically took the form of a silent inner intonation with a clear visualization of someone in authority over us. What was it? “You’re not the boss of me!!”
When we were young we didn’t really know who was the ‘boss of us.’ We just knew it wasn’t the person who was wanting to take on the job. As we have matured we became more aware who our boss was, but chose not to tap into that resource. We all really know who the boss of us is..it is us.
We are the boss of us. In the realm of leadership it is referred to as self-leadership. It is true, that until we lead ourselves well, we will never lead others well.
Dan Reiland, leadership expert and writer, in his book, “Leadership Alone Isn’t Enough,” identifies three factors necessary for successful self-leadership.
Motivation: Self-leadership isn’t easy. You need to be committed to the sacrifices necessary to lead yourself well. “The why, or the reason, for your desired behavior will often determine the level of your success.”
Discipline: This is a characteristic most leaders enjoy tossing around, but many resist the effort needed to implement it. It makes me think of something I recently read, ‘I know I’m the boss of me, but I run a pretty loose ship.’ This made me laugh. After which, I realized my ship management can get loose quickly.
Character: Self-leadership is the Gorilla Glue that holds your character together. “For leaders, character involves living the same life you expect of others.”
You know that you are the boss of you. It’s time to take that role seriously. Step up. Be the boss. Take control. Get your ship tightened up.