I ran across this quote from Tom Robbins:
“There are only two mantras, yum and yuck, mine is yum.”
Approachable leaders also choose the mantra of “yum”. They see a world of possibility and abundance, not a zero-sum world of limitation and scarcity. When they look at those they lead they think “yum” not “yuck.” For example:
- If an approachable leader notices someone struggling they think “yum” seeing this is as an opportunity to remind this individual of their great talent, help them remember overcoming obstacles in the past, and pitch in to help in any way you can. Unapproachable leaders think “yuck” and see this as a failure of someone who just doesn’t get it.
- Unapproachable leaders who see someone going above and beyond think “yuck,” hoping this go-getter isn’t showing them up or expecting some favor in return. Approachable leaders think “yum” and make sure this individual’s contribution is noticed and appreciated.
- An approachable leader sees challenges and thinks “yum,” relishing the opportunity for her team to shine. She doesn’t think “yuck,” cursing this challenge and wondering how on earth her team can possibly overcome it.
How about you? I hope you choose “yum.”
