As I think of what frustrates me, at the top of the list is an event. It occurs when members of our team go off message. I initially assumed that it was a matter of carelessness, perhaps stupidity. After all, I am perfectly clear in my communications. We share openly. There is able to chance to know what is going on and how our priorities fit within the events.
Not one of my assumptions is factually accurate. Metaphorically, the contrast with one person’s perspective of his message is extreme. At the time, he reminded those around him of the following. “God has stood by me, just as he promised, and I’m standing here saying what I’ve been saying to anyone, whether king or child, who will listen.” (Acts 26.22) Not surprisingly, I am not God. Candidly, I have not always stood by.
The self-incrimination unfolds along the following lines.
First, individuals are not stupid even when they do stupid things. While we have our moments of carelessness, I do not think the label is appropriate for the leaders that have gone off message. They are bright. They care about their work and how others see the team. They want to win.
Additionally the reality is that they often do not know what the message is. Far too often, on reflection, I realize we have never talked about the subject. There has been no formal communication. They were just supposed to know. Somehow, someway, they were supposed to get it. It should not be surprising that they did not. Yet, I sit surprised.
Frequently, when the message was challenging, the individuals in question felt like they were on their own. Belonging is a two-way street. One must be invited in order to accept belonging. You can push your way in, yet to belong there must be an invitation.
I also find that one must believe in her/his role in delivering the message. It is more than facts. The fact that one is a messenger must be seen and understood. This is something that takes mutual accountability.
