Since the kids were young, I reinforced to them the importance of fitness. For all four of them, my wife and I agreed to hire a personal trainer to help them get started with a program that is right for them. Now they each have a routine they follow, and they are committed to it.
 
It helps that they see my wife and I in the home gym nearly every day. There is power in leading by example.

No Room to Hide

This topic is about accountability. In other words, I cannot ask my kids to engage in working out if I am not willing to do it myself. The same holds true for any other activity, such as studying reading, going to church, and so on.
 
If I fail to do my exercise for more than a day, the kids can call me out on it. I can hear it now … “Dad, how was your workout today?” The message will resonate, and it will prompt me to put on my gym clothes and start sweating.
 
In the Workplace

We’ve all worked for leaders and managers who are eager to tell us what to do, but they are unwilling to do it themselves, such as the following:

  • “Team, we have an important project that is due by next Friday. This means you might have to work evenings and weekends to ensure it gets done.”
  • “We have an irate customer, and the issue needs to get resolved. I need one of you to speak to the customer in person. Make sure to report back to me ASAP!”
  • “Stop complaining about the technology! The leadership purchased new systems because we must stay connected with our customers. At some point down the road, you will also get updated equipment. For now, do what is necessary to get the work done!”

 
Each of these workplace situations provides an excellent opportunity for the higher-ups to be called out. Thinking they are better than their employees is problematic, and this attitude creates a culture of resentment and distrust.
 
No One is that Important

San Antonio Spurs coach, Gregg Popovich, is often heard stating the following: “Stop thinking you are that important!”
 
There are far too many people who think that stuff can only happen if they are involved. The fact is that all of us are replaceable. The more we accept that others can step in to do our work, the better we are at managing and leading. This humble mindset allows us to take a servant leadership approach, which is respected by others.
 
Getting called out by others is good. Of course, respectful communication is important.
 
I want my team members to approach me when I’m failing to do my part. My feelings do not get hurt when others display bravery and ask me for a progress update. I want to know in advance what I need to do to help the team succeed.
 
As a reminder … “None of us is that important.”