Let that sink in.

That’s a big “what if?”

Or is it?

Does making Manager or even VP make you supremely confident in yourself?

Sometimes yes.

But leaders are human too.

I’ve worked with a lot of managers over the course of my career. In many cases, it’s been like pulling teeth to get them to step up as sponsors of a major initiative.

We often chalk it up to how busy they are. At times, perhaps wrongly so, we vilify them for their lack of commitment. We speechify how critical it is that they “show” their support, in demonstrable ways. “Visible sponsorship.”

What if THEY’RE sacred too.

After all, they’re often far more “on the line” than anyone else. Their superiors are holding their feet to the fire for success. It may have been their idea. They may have made a promise.

When leaders are scared, we need a different approach. We need to help them be brave.

That’s a different thing altogether. One that we aren’t necessarily thinking about or looking for. And we have to do it carefully, courteously, and quietly.

Keep your eyes open for this possibility.

Be ready to put your arms around your leaders.

And coach them toward the goal.

Get your cape! It’s go time.

Have a great week!