Unlikely Leaders Help on Your Journey

So who would think of Grammy being a leader?  It is most likely that she hasn't earned an MBA, nor has she attended conferences about leadership and strategy!  She probably did not run a million dollar company.   However, let’s examine the actions she has taken that represent leadership—even if the focus of her attention is a toddler!  (Don’t underestimate the toddler—- 2 year olds can have much in common with teenagers and employees!!)

1. She is present. Not only is she in the room, but she is present physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually for her great grandson.
2. She is observant as to the needs of her charge and she is observant regarding the surroundings and what might be needed or avoided as they proceed on their walk.
3. She considers the learning and developmental levels and needs that her toddler has. She is ready to explain, demonstrate, and let him try as well.
4. She listens actively and intensely to what he is trying to communicate. She is aware of what he might need and then translates that into activities or opportunities.
5. She is focused on the immediate and the long term.  How far can we walk, what to have for snack and how much her great grandson can do for himself.
6. She sets things up so that he is empowered, encouraging his curiosity (the pebbles), his agency (finding a stick to walk with) and his need for independence, helping him set up his bowl of crackers, and having him choose a book to read or story to hear.
7. She is consistent; he can depend on her.  She works on a schedule that her little guy can anticipate. Thus, naptimes are welcomed by both!
8. She engages him as a partner in the adventures, so that he willingly chooses to go along; even if it might be a 4 little scary. (Going for walks on new streets or up new hills can be scary for a 2 year old).
9. She is patient.  (Now not all Grammys are patient; but this one is).  Her patience allows this toddler to search for answers for himself or to stumble over the choices for the right word.  She waits and encourages.
10. She makes interesting suggestions. She does not make demands, because she knows that the favorite word of 2 year olds is NO!

So, the bottom line is, you and I can learn some good leadership skills from this great grandma!!  Of course she comes at this from a place of love, stewardship and service!