Lead Us Not Into Consumption

Becoming an effective leader is a difficult and complex role to fill. Leadership requires a nuanced and varied approach that is based on circumstance. Taking the time to listen to every opinion in the security of your well guarded compound is the best way to get great ideas and to solidify group dynamic; however, demanding everyone take the time for discussion while zombies are bearing down on you is a quick way to ensure you are all equally consumed. I've observed many leaders over the years and there a few general principles which I think might help shape your leadership style. Everyone leads at a different scale and at different times. Sure, you may not be the figurehead people turn to at any given moment, but you are a necessary leader nonetheless. If you are a subject matter expert, you lead when that subject is being discussed. If you are in the field with zombies closing in and you see the opening before anyone else, you take charge. If you notice moral is degrading as a horde approaches camp, you let out a laugh, climb to your feet and say, "not today!", then you are a leader. Remember, leaders sometimes need to be lead. Find your time and your niche, then lead on. 1. To listen is to lead. This sounds counter intuitive but please hear me out. Despite what your archetypal leader may look like on screen - that booming voice and the unwavering attention of every individual- this is not the way leading need necessarily occur. When it comes to leading, people want to know you will take into consideration their ideas. Demonstrate early and often your ability to listen. If you find yourself taken into a group, make sure to spend time speaking with each individual. You should ask questions and let the person speak. When it comes time for you to step up and say something important, they will return the courtesy you gave them.

2. Bring out the best in everyone. Since you have taken the time to speak to people, you will know some of their hopes, dreams, skills and fears. When a need arises, you will know who to turn to. You don't need to take charge in every situation, just know who to encourage to make that leap into the leader seat.

3. Do it for the right reason. People will be able to tell if you are the type who just likes to hear their own voice. People will also be able to tell if you are in the role just to get the rush of command. If you are taking charge and leading in a situation, it should be because you are the best person suited for the job. You are either the subject matter expert or well aware of who is, and are deferring to them. Don't let ego get in your way; be a leader for the group, not of the group.

4. Be patient. Don't rush to a leadership role unless you feel it necessary. You need not micromanage a successful team. People enjoy their autonomy and quite often function better with it. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

In the end leadership is about helping achieve our collective goals. I have watched a quiet, unassuming individual spend the weekend with us somberly training only to surge to a leadership spot right when they were needed most during the zombie outbreak. This person saved many "lives" in the chaos and when it was all said and done, they said their personal goodbyes and humbly left the building a parade-less, statue-less, heroic leader.