Life is defined by lack of attention,
whether it be to cleaning windows
or trying to write a masterpiece.
- Nadia Boulanger
In his post, The Art of Balance, the Art of Leadership, Don Frederiksen commented, “I have always thought that my music background brought creativity, dimension and balance to my thinking and work.” Wow, that really resonates with me having been a musical conductor for over 40 years. I realize daily how important the leadership skills that a conductor knows are really valuable to leaders in other fields.
Art is sometimes as giving attention to detail. Striving for balance does not only mean that we keep the trumpets from covering up the rest of the orchestra. It also means that we give attention to the details to be faithful in implementation of our vision as the leader. Balance does not mean making everything equal. Balance means creating consistency and quality in all systems, relationships, and in the culture itself.
Listening is a skill musicians bring to leadership. As a business coach, I have discovered that listening is the key skill in order to know what is really happening.
Remember your past. I gain much from remembering my musical skills and experience. It give me perspective for creating value in the lives of others.
Tags: Conflict in the Workplace, Leadership Skills, team conflict, Transformational Leadership
Hugh,
Thank you for the mention in your post. I also agree with your position on balance. Like you state, it is not about making sure all things are equal but that there is the ability to she the whole picture and recognize and consider both sides of an issue or approach.
My arts background adds balance to my technical work. Although I don’t think that there is balance in the notion that author Dan Pink (Whole New Mind) proposes when he says that the “MFA is the new MBA”, I appreciate that we are able to balance both sides of the brain. We can see and appreciate “people” concerns and are better equipped to collaborate and build community. This kind of balance wins.
Thanks again,
Don Frederksen