Unveiling Success Habits from the Good Leadership Breakfast

Unveiling Success Habits from the Good Leadership Breakfast
By Kevin Sensenig, President and Chief Learning Officer of Good Leadership

At the 103rd Good Leadership Breakfast in May 2023, Glen Gunderson, President and CEO of YMCA
of the North, shared three invaluable insights that can inspire and empower teams to achieve their goals.

1. Gaining wisdom from the front lines
2. Establishing a personal decompression chamber
3. Embracing a curious mindset by asking “why not.”

Let’s delve into each of these habits and explore how they can contribute
to your path to success.

Take cues from the front lines:
This concept revolves around gaining insights, perspectives, and wisdom from those directly involved in the day-to-day operations and challenges. By actively engaging with individuals on the front lines of your organization, you can tap into a wealth of knowledge and better understand the intricate workings of your business. The valuable experiences shared by employees or industry experts can help you make informed decisions, identify potential obstacles, and implement effective strategies for growth and success.

Find a unique decompression chamber – and use it:
In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, finding a personal decompression chamber has become vital for maintaining well-being and sustaining high levels of productivity. Glen highlighted the significance of carving out a space or activity that allows you to recharge, reflect, and rejuvenate. This could be as simple as going for a walk in nature, practicing mindfulness or meditation, indulging in a hobby, or spending quality time with loved ones. Glen mentioned that he enjoys “getting his hands in the dirt” and even has a dedicated gardening shirt.

By regularly engaging in activities that provide solace and a break from daily pressures, you can enhance your focus, creativity, and overall effectiveness as a leader. Finding your own unique decompression chamber and utilizing it will empower you to navigate challenges with resilience and maintain a healthy personal and professional blend.

Ask “why not”… a lot:
A key trait of successful leaders is their ability to embrace curiosity and challenge the status quo. Glen encouraged individuals to adopt a mindset of constant inquiry by asking “why not”… a lot. This habit prompts you to question existing norms, assumptions, and limitations, unlocking new possibilities and fostering innovation. By questioning the underlying reasons for certain practices or ideas, you can identify opportunities for improvement, discover alternative solutions, and push the boundaries of what is considered possible. Embracing this mindset not only cultivates a culture of growth and creativity within your organization, it also empowers you to make bold decisions and seize opportunities that others may overlook.

So, why not embark on this journey and embrace these transformative habits today?
The success habits shared by Glen at the Good Leadership Breakfast serve as valuable guideposts for teams to thrive and win together as they strive to achieve their goals. By taking cues from the front lines, finding a personal decompression chamber, and asking “why not”… a lot, you can enhance your leadership capacity, nurture a culture of continuous improvement, and unlock your full potential. Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can set you on a path towards success, both personally and professionally.