Returning to Leadership Basics: Essential Lessons from Childhood

Let’s Cut the Fluff: Returning to Basics in Leadership

Have you ever sat down with a cup of coffee, contemplating why some leaders seem to lose their way? It’s a curious thing, really. In a recent podcast, I was asked what single piece of advice I’d offer to leaders today, and my answer was crystal clear: it’s time to return to basics. No fluff, no nonsense, just the fundamental principles we were taught as children.

Why the Basics Matter

While reflecting on this sentiment, I stumbled upon a memorable moment from my time writing “Build It: The Rebel Playbook.” My co-author’s mother came across our Engagement Bridge model and said with a wise smile, “Isn’t this what I taught you when you were growing up?” We shared a hearty laugh, but she truly hit the nail on the head.

The basic lessons we learned in childhood, such as treating others as you’d like to be treated and owning up to your mistakes, are shockingly relevant for today’s leadership. It’s almost laughable how we overlook these straightforward principles in favour of endless buzzwords and corporate jargon. But let’s remind ourselves of the core tenets that guide us:

1. Treat others as you’d like to be treated.
2. Own your mistakes and apologise.
3. Play fair.
4. It’s the thought that counts.
5. Trust others and assume good intentions.
6. Honesty is essential: always speak the truth.

Complexity is Overrated

Somewhere along the line, we became enamoured with complexity. We follow the latest trends and chase the elusive concepts that promise to revolutionise our workplaces. Yet, when we peel back the layers, the most effective leadership rests on those childhood lessons.

Now, I’m not saying we should ignore innovation or the latest technology. Rather, we should apply the same fundamental truths we grew up with as the foundation for our leadership approach. By doing so, we create environments where trust, respect, and genuine engagement flourish.

Are You Practising the Fundamentals?

Your employees want to feel valued, trusted, and understood. So, I pose this question to you: Are you still practising the fundamentals you learned as children? Are you treating your team with the kindness and respect you’d want for yourself? Trust me, reconnecting with these basics could unlock enormous potential within your team.

Thinking of my own journey, I recall times when I lost sight of these basic principles. We all get caught up in the rush of targets, deadlines, and expectations. But when I reconnected with those fundamentals, I saw marked improvements in team morale and engagement. Suddenly, my team was more than just a group of workers – they became collaborators with shared goals and aspirations.

Take Action for Change

Think back to a time when a simple act of kindness or honesty turned your day around. Those moments are what build lasting connections. We all crave authentic relationships, whether at work or elsewhere. It’s about returning to those basics that fuel long-term success, not just in business, but in life as well.

As you move forward, I urge you to reflect on your leadership approach. How can you integrate these principles into your daily interactions? By grounding your leadership in these straightforward, human ideas, you’re likely to inspire those around you to do the same.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

As we continue navigating the complexities of leadership in today’s world, let’s not forget the invaluable lessons we learned long ago. After all, if we return to the fundamentals, we might just find that the path to effective leadership is clearer than we thought. So, what childhood lesson has stuck with you and shaped your approach to leadership?

Let’s keep this conversation alive. Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!