The leadership lesson you missed in 2010

We’re ahead of the game, those of us that read the Predictable Success blog, so of course we’re smugly aware that unlike most of our colleagues and peers we’ve undertaken (or are about to undertake) an extensive year-end review and prepared ourselves for the year ahead.But what about that one important lesson we haven’t learned from 2010? Unless you’ve been incredibly lucky, there is one – and it’s out there waiting to trip you up in 2011.

What is it?

It’s the lesson you cannot see, despite asking the best questions. The thing you missed. Your blind spot. Johari’s Window. Call it what ever you want, it’s out there, sure as shootin’, stalking you and waiting for the best moment to pounce in 2011.

So what about sending this one-para email to your staff, clients, colleagues and trusted advisors before the year ends:

“Hey –

I’ve just finished a review of what I did well, and what I didn’t do well in 2010. I learned a lot of valuable lessons which I’m looking forward to applying in 2011. However, I’m pretty sure I haven’t caught everything, and as you know me well, I’d love for you to help: would you please hit ‘reply’ and in one ruthlessly constructive sentence answer this question honestly?:

What’s the one big lesson that above all else you think I should learn from 2010?

Thanks!“

Oh, and by the way, if over the year you’ve seen something you think I could learn something from 2010, let me know in the comments below or in a private email. I would genuinely love to hear it. Just one request – be ruthlessly constructive.

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About the Author

Les McKeown is the Founder and CEO of Predictable Success.

Les is the author of "Predictable Success: Getting Your Organization On the Growth Track - and Keeping It There". "The Synergist: How to Lead Your Team to Predictable Success", "Do Lead: Share Your Vision. Inspire Others. Achieve the Impossible" and most recently "Do Scale: A Roadmap to Building a Remarkable Company".