Lifeguarding is a thankless job. They are there for your protection and are ready to save a life at a moment's notice. When they do, they are commended, applauded and appreciated, but those moments come few and far between.
I recently observed and noticed that the majority of their job is reprimanding behavior. The shrill whistle is almost always followed by some warning or order to stop someone from doing something. They sit, look, and find the negative in hopes to change behavior. Imagine if the lifeguard whistle meant someone in the pool was going to receive a compliment or congratulations. GREAT JOB AT THE WAVE POOL!! THANK FOR WALKING!! NICE HANDSTAND!! How would that change the game?? When we use our leadership whistle, I hope it is for more than negative behavior changing. I hope when we blow our whistle to grab the attention of those around us, that we offer a positive feedback loop that fosters growth and encouragement instead of scolding and negative behavior change. Our work isn't about saving lives, but it is about changing lives...what whistle are you using? |
Thanks for stopping by. These are musings on how I see leadership in the world and how I continue to try and grow through my lens.
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