Have you ever heard the saying: “You can’t see the forest for the trees”?

This saying deals with familiarity. Think about this, in terms of our workplace. When we are new to a job we see things that long time employees may not notice anymore. Our ability to have a proper perspective diminishes when we’re deep within a problem, an organization, or a situation that is overwhelming us.

Losing the ability to see ourselves honestly can happen to the best of us.

Earlier this week I spoke with Tom Harper from Networld media group about his leadership fable “Through Colored Glasses”. It’s a story about an executive that lost the ability to be honest with himself about a situation in his company. Eventually the only solution was to tell the truth and admit defeat. In that defeat there was a victory, because the truth was honored.

Are you struggling with being able to see the forest and the individual trees in that forest?

What does your forest look like today?

Ask the people that you work alongside or live with. Be ready for their perspective and honesty and then listen for their answers. When we value the perspectives of those around us, we become a better leader.

Perspective changes depending on your point of YOU. But the truth is, it never changes.

Great leaders learn to be authentic, transparent and vulnerable. Surround yourself with people that you are willing to listen to, this is the sign of a great leader. Those around you will feel loved and appreciated and that’s what makes a great leader.

What color is your forest?

Ephesians 4:29 New Living Translation (NLT)

29 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.

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