Decades ago and early in my career, when I worked with Walmart Canada, I attended a leadership course called “Walton Institute”. It was a coveted course, delivered around the world wherever Walmart operated. Based on the experiences and legends of Sam Walton, we learned about ourselves, others, and leadership. Imagery was used to describe the work of middle managers. That metaphor has stayed with me and has been adapted into a personal belief, a belief that is lived in practice and one that has served me well as a leader for the 20+ years since.
“Leaders must always put their people before themselves. If you do that, your business will take care of itself.” – Sam Walton
Picture a four way stop. As a leader, you are standing in the middle with the needs of others coming at you from all four directions; direct reports, peers, and more senior leaders. Although it can feel overwhelming at times, leaders who listen to and champion the needs of others will ultimately set them up for success. When they are successful, there is a natural flow that sweeps you along among the success, opportunity, and fulfillment.
To be clear, I am not suggesting that it is the leader’s role to take on the work and worry of everyone else. No, that wouldn’t benefit anyone. More specifically, I am recommending a choice to be notably present, to listen with curiosity and to help others show up as their best selves. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.
