I really
like the title to this blog post. It is a line we have all heard far too often
in the workplace. What does that line even mean? To me it means were afraid to
try new ideas out. To improve and evolve our way of thinking. This seems to me
a response you most often find coming from that long time employee. The one you
know is there for life without much ambition or aspirations.
The thing though
with that is these same people while lacking any ambition are usually in
positions where they actually hold their employers back from innovation. They
stand in the way of evolution and growth that fresh minds often try to introduce.
Now these employees are certainly reliable and often solid
pillars in your day to day life. They also act like anchors holding you back.
Think of what you’re looking for in your staff. You want that employee who is
prepared to demonstrate passion and drive. To challenge themselves daily to
bring new skills to the table. Yet there is that anchor again who stands fast
on old ideas.
I think there is
certainly a place for this mindset, in a leadership role is not that place.
This has long term negative effects on a team as a whole. People tend to hold
back ideas for fear of them being tossed away with often a long winded speech that
is founded on fear of change.
Creativity is what drives innovation and it is up to a true
leader to recognize and nourish this trait while still keeping the ship between
the shores.
Always challenge your mind!