Recently, I had a chance to listen in on a talk from Jim Collins, renowned author of Great by Choice and Good to Great. Several points he made got me reflecting on the financial advisory profession. As advisors, so many of us don’t put proactive effort and thought into becoming better leaders. Our business is so specialized at times that I think we often forget we are leaders! And, as leaders, we have a responsibility to our team and ourselves to continually improve the way we guide the direction of our firms.
Jim called this type of constant restlessness in searching for the best way to grow “productive paranoia.” Think about some of the most inspiring leaders and mentors you’ve had throughout the course of your life. This paranoia to re-evaluate everything the company does and how they do it is what makes great leaders. Of course, the secret driving force behind this is possessing a strong passion for what you do in that you’re never fully satisfied with where you have been or where you are going.
Ask yourself, “Am I prepared for the worst and can I do this in a better way?” Forcing this question upon yourself and making it a habit in your daily life can have dramatic effects on your long-term success. One line in particular from Mr. Collins has stuck with me:
“If the organization is not great without you, it is not yet a great organization.”
I believe this statement is the true measure of your legacy as a leader. Here’s to improving yourself as a person, an advisor, and as a leader.
What do you think? Post your comments below
Ron Carson is Founder and CEO of Carson Wealth Management Group, a wealth planning firm in Omaha
