I love the song by Jon Pardi, Dirt On My Boots. It’s just a fun song about working hard and then going out and having some fun.
I think this is a great metaphor for leadership. The problem so many leaders have is that they are more concerned about how they look than how they lead. They become unapproachable and treat the role like a hierarchy. They think that to be a leader they have to distance themselves from the people they lead.
This attitude may have worked 10 years ago but today, leadership is so much more complex. People want leaders who inspire and provide vision. We crave leaders who care about us. We want leaders who make relationships personal and not just about the business.
To me the metaphor of getting dirt on our boots is another way to say that to be a great leader you have to get off your high horse and get dirty. You have to work with people on all levels and show your team you are willing to get in the trenches with them. Once you do this, there is no telling how far your team can go to help you reach your goals and dreams.
Isn’t it time you get off your high horse and get a little dirt on your boots?
Until next time…I’m Marty, make every minute count.
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