June 15, 2013 
A great leader
- Communicates the “Why”
- Collaborates the “What”
- Delegates the “How”
Communicating “The Why”
A great leader understands and articulates the reason an activity must take place. The leader is aware of the risks of inaction and the benefits of forward motion. Before any meaningful planning can be done, the leader must emphatically clarify the reason the status quo is unacceptable. The purpose of a successful endeavor must be crystal clear before brainstorming even begins.
Collaborating on “The What”
Once the need has been firmly clarified, the leader should involve the team in determining the objectives. This is a great opportunity for brainstorming. Many fantastic ideas will be missed if the leader dictates “the what,” rather than collaborates. The opportunity to participate in defining “the what” will build a sense of ownership among the team members. This will help sustain them when inevitable obstacles arise along the way.
Delegating “The How”
Once the purpose is understood and the objectives have been agreed upon, the wise leader steps aside. By delegating “the how” to the team members, the leader empowers their creativity. Each team member then invents methods that match their own skills. The leader avoids the trap of micromanagement, which so often breeds resentment. By delegating the how, the leader shows respect and honor to the team members. They are left with a sense of being deeply valued and will usually rise to the challenge of crafting efficient processes.
A great leader communicates the “Why,” collaborates the “What” and delegates the “How.”
KnowledgeBishop 
Reblogged this on joeseeberblog.
Reblogged this on joeseeberblog.
Thank you Joe!
The best and most concise yet comprehensive definition of a leader I’ve read.
It flows with the decision process, it embraces execution and acknowledges the unpredictable.
Great work and well done!
Thank you so much, Keenan!
I would like to cross post this blog at http://www.leadershiprealities.com Ok?
Absolutely. I’d be honored. Let me know when it’s up and I’ll tweet it out.
“By delegating the how, the leader shows respect and honor to the team members. They are left with a sense of being deeply valued and will usually rise to the challenge of crafting efficient processes.”
Said like a true leader Tristan! Great entry! I really enjoy reading your posts on leadership.