There are so many things competing for our attention these days, however, when you are riding a bike, your attention is straight ahead. In my opinion, the fine art of bike riding is an invaluable discipline to the art of leadership. I have personally experienced the rewards of bicycling and the lifetime consistency it has produced in me.---everyone associates me with the study of diversity in nursing science, in addition, they seek me out for the craft. Believe it or not, a lot of my creativity comes out of a bike-ride.
“Let me tell you what I think of bicycling. I think it has done more to emancipate women than anything else in the world. It gives women a feeling of freedom and self-reliance. I stand and rejoice every time I see a woman ride by on a wheel…the picture of free, untrammeled womanhood.”
― Susan B. Anthony
Everyone knows how to ride a bike. But not everyone has thought about what this old-time skill can teach them about leadership. Here are (5) things I associate with bike-riding:
The Balance. The idea of work, life and balance is not feasible for most people. In our 'hurry and wait' society, it's no wonder mental health is a primary issue at every organization. Managing your mental health will hemorrhage over to your ability to balance your work life and leadership skills.
The Vision. Write it down and make it plain. Start to work from a specific set of principles and standards. This will keep you focused and consistent, ultimately acquiring more success. When you can articulate a personal leadership philosophy, people can see your vision more clearly. It works.
The Fall. No matter what you do, there will be ups and downs. Whether you are a student, entrepreneur or executive, you will go through this cycle. Sure the ups are always good, but what is most important is how you cope, manage and rebound from the fall. I have found that when I celebrate the little wins, they give me padding for any fall that may come. Don't wait for something big to happen, keep building padding with the small things. One foot- in- front- of- the- other.
The Basket. On a bike the basket is used to carry small items, like a compartment of some sort. I see it as an organizational strategy when it comes to leadership. In my mind, developing baskets of organizational design can help with workflow, process, and systematic approaches. When we place things, people and processes in baskets or compartments, we can eventually see what and who works. This undoubtedly, creates for better decision-making.
The Brakes. STOP. NO. HELP. All of the above. I can't express how important it is to incorporate these three words into your leadership strategy. Remember, everyone does not have to be in your life or messaging. Everything does not really matter. And every email does not need to be answered.