The Flint Hills Writing Project (@FHWP) at Emporia State University (Go Hornets! #StingersUp) started a Writing Into the Day/Writing Out of the Day writing prompt series during this period of social distancing. This is a great idea from a great group of writers and writing enthusiasts. I’m going to try and keep up as I can and post my efforts.
Writing Into the Day – 4/21/20 prompt is: You’ve awakened to find yourself in charge of a country. What is your first task as leader?
The first thing I’d do is look out upon the rolling hills, bustling commerce, fields of golden grain, and smile. Then I’d look at the two, identical lengths of heavy iron chain hanging from my wall as a reminder. The reminder to get to work on the first task of surrounding myself with people smarter and wiser than me.
The first rule of leadership is to build a team of the best people. A wise head coach I had the honor to work for would often say the best plan was to be the dumbest person in the room yet be smart enough to listen to those around you.
As a leader, I’d have no problem being the dumbest person in the room. Leadership leads.
Leadership is not arrogant.
Leadership doesn’t point fingers.
Leadership gives direction and focus.
Leadership leads.
That’s where the chains come in as a constant reminder of the responsibilities of leadership.
The chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
It’s my job as the commander-in-chief, the big cheese, and the top dog to be the weakest link. It’s my job to hold the two lengths of chain together with strength, empathy, wisdom, and confidence.
That’s what leaders do. They lead.
They hold the system together, keep the rudder straight in choppy seas, and surround themselves with the best. They are fueled by pride, not arrogance.
So welcome to my country!
As leader, I ask that you keep an eye on me and force me to look at those chains every day as a reminder of my duty. If I point a finger of blame, show me that there are three of my fingers pointing back at me.
Lead. Follow. Or get the hell out of the way.
Let’s do this.
