Within every great leader there is the desire to expand his and explore new territories. There’s something about leadership that draws leaders towards growing their sphere of influence.
However, if a leader is not careful, he can easily overstep his boundaries. So that’s what we’re going to talk about today.
Image by Jenny Downing
Will you raise your hand if you want to expand your level of influence? Check! I see that hand go up.
Will you raise your hand if you want to move into new areas of leadership (New territories)? Check. I see that hand as well.
I know, as leaders, we’re always looking for new ways to grow our influence and enter into new territories. This can be difficult, especially if we’re not the main leader of an organization.
Do you get what I’m talking about?
You’re a new leader. You’re under the leadership authority of another leader. You’re unsure of your position in the organization.
And you know you shouldn’t try to overstep the boundaries that are placed upon your position. Yet you strive for that new challenge. The new title. The new responsibilities.
It’s okay to want all of that. You’re yearning for the influence you can have as a great leader. Those new territories come with that influence but you may not be ready yet.
So, how do we explore new territories without overstepping our boundaries?
Ask for a blessing from your leader: Maybe the authority in your life doesn’t know your aspirations. Maybe he doesn’t know you’re looking for more responsibility.
There’s an easy way to solve the problem. Man up and let your leader know you’re wanting to expand your leadership territory.
Share with him what is on your heart. Explain to him the training or education you’re receiving so you can step into this expanded role. Show him you’re serious.
Follow directions: We’re always going to be underneath someone’s authority. Sometimes this is hard for a leader to comprehend.
However, life goes a lot smoother when we realize we’re not the top dog and we never will be. There will be someone over us who may have to give us directions from time to time.
Look to the leaders in your life and be willing to submit to their authority.
Step forward: You may be timid and not want to rock the boat. Unfortunately, you’ll never expand your territory if this is your mindset.
Leaders rock the boat. They take chances. And they step forward when opportunities present themselves.
Search for chances to stretch your leadership muscles.
Stretching your leadership muscles may mean you have to take on undesirable tasks. You may have to work harder. Or even longer.
Do what it takes to show you’re willing.
Expanding our territories as leaders takes work. We must realize we have to present ourselves to those who are leaders above us. We must also be willing to submit to these same leaders. Lastly, you must be willing to step forward and take a chance.
When you combine these three actions, you’ll become a leader who can expand their territory without overstepping their boundaries.
Question: What other tips do you have for a leader looking to expand their territory? Please share your tip in the comment section below. It’ll help someone grow!
Please note: I reserve the right to delete comments that are offensive or off-topic.