Leadership Dynamics: The Newtonian Approach to Business Momentum
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In 1687, Isaac Newton, in his work on gravity, discovered the formula for determining the amount of force required to move an object: force = mass x acceleration
It’s also an apt analogy for business initiatives. We might modify it like this: impact = mass x momentum
The above analogy explains why the impact of any statement equals the size of the idea, multiplied by the speed to successfully transfer the idea from your mind to the mind of another (Roy Williams, Wizard Academy).
Newton’s third law of motion, paraphrased: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This is why new thoughts always encounter resistance—the mud of leadership.
Momentum is the strength or force that allows something to gain impact as it accelerates, i.e., the ability to overcome resistance.
EVERY BREAKDOWN IS A FUNCTION OF A CONVERSATION NOT HAD.
Let’s take the first four statements together. Every business seeks momentum, which we define as mass x velocity. In product sales, this is how fast (velocity) you can move your product (mass) out to consumers. As an individual or a leader, the speed with which you can move your ideas forward depends on your ability to overcome resistance.
THE BIGGEST MISTAKE IS RESISTING THE RESISTANCE.
It’s natural to resist something that challenges you, but that just creates two opposing forces seeking superior power/force over the other. If you want to see how well that works, check out our current political stage. On the other hand, if you embrace the resistance and seek to understand it, you are far better equipped to move through it.
Determine the source of the resistance. Is it concern, fear, ignorance, or previous experience, and what does it tell us? Our ability to hear the concern and understand the impact driving the concern smooths the way to overcoming the resistance and simultaneously expands our understanding.
Ask yourself this:
DO YOU JUST WANT ALIGNMENT BEHIND AN ALREADY-FORMED AND FIXED INITIATIVE, OR ARE YOU OPEN TO INPUT THAT MIGHT CHANGE YOUR DECIDED DIRECTION?
Is your message, “Everyone will return to the office by the end of the month,” or “We are considering bringing all parties back to in-office work and would like your input first.”
Your genuine willingness to hear what others have to say facilitates their willingness to follow along, even if it’s not their preference. It’s your most potent tool for gaining authentic alignment.
ALIGNMENT ALLOWS FOR VELOCITY.
Executive leadership presents new initiatives and wants alignment; managers and supervisors are charged with securing alignment with frontline people. Clarity here is key.
The clearer and more succinctly a leader communicates what they want their people to accomplish, the more likely they will get what they want. Wise leaders know they get what their people heard, regardless of what the leader intended.
Two major reasons things go awry:
Unclear communications
Assumed outcomes (see #1)
Useful steps that can accelerate genuine alignment (versus lip service):
Listen to the concern (Resistance)
Understand the impact (Force) driving the resistance
Consider the impact, does it affect your planned direction?
If it improves, adjust; otherwise, continue as you were
Readdress the concern and share your reasoning based on a more informed perspective
Ask for authentic, full alignment (Velocity)
As a leader at any level, if you can fully communicate what you want and set clear expectations (Speed) for the outcome (Mass), you can put things into accelerated motion. What Isaac discovered is what drives our world.
BE STRAIGHT, BE CLEAR AND LISTEN!
Have a great week, and for heaven’s sake, take a few moments to reflect and love yourself.
Cheers,
Fundamental of the Week #13: FIND A WAY
Look for how we can do it rather than explaining why it can’t be done. Take personal responsibility. Be innovative, assertive and take initiative.
Momentum Consulting offers executive business coaching, top-level executive consulting, team training, and team off-sites to build and transform your business to the next level. Inquire about business consulting and leadership coaching today.
