Let Them See You Sweat

I was recently watching an episode of one of my favorite TV shows, The Profit.

The show focuses on a man who puts his own money into struggling businesses and tries to help them become successful. In this particular episode, a coffee company owner was struggling because his company was growing so fast that he was losing control. The challenge was that he did not want his team to see the stress or fear he was facing as the issues mounted.

When asked about the problems he was facing from Marcus, the investor, the owner teared

up from the strain. He explained that he did not want to break down. He said, "I don’t want my team to see me like this. I want them to see me strong."

The challenge we have as leaders is that we don't want our teams to see us sweat. We don't want them to know we are scared, so we cover it up.

But what makes a great leader?

A great leader lets their team know what is going on. A great leader lets their team see into

the challenges you are facing and allows them to help you deal with those challenges.

Humility is a strength and your people will respect you for it. Humility shows you care and you trust your team enough to share the worry you are facing.

But there is a catch. As a leader you have to be confident. That confidence will let your team know you trust them and the process you are going through.

Next time you are faced with tough challenges, let them see you sweat. I'm sure you will get all the help you need to move past your problems.

Until next time…I’m Marty, make every minute count.