Stories of Transformation: May the Force be with you, young padawan.

Credit: Chris Trevas

ON STAR WARS DAY: let's talk about Transformation and how it is necessary for any leader to grow as their influence increases.

Just before Obi-Wan Kenobi died in Episode IV, he said, "If you strike me down, I shall become more powerful than you can possibly imagine."

It is a powerful idea - through destruction, we can become more powerful. Obi-Wan's purposefulness endured, and his legacy and teachings would empower Luke, who followed. And that's exactly what transformation is all about.

Just like Jedi Masters who achieved enlightenment and joined the force, leaders in business also go through a transformation to be able to inspire, empower, and lift up others. They have to destroy that which they were for something new.

Nowhere is this more evident than when working with technical or academic experts. They've developed in specialized roles and environments - so taking the lead of people can seem like a galaxy far, far away.

Finding success in a specific discipline, then being promoted into leadership can be a shock. When undersupported, it can lead to struggle, which leads to apathy and fear. It's a trip to the Dark Side many may take, and it unnecessarily risks the success of the organization. It can be avoided - but you need a guide. You need to forget all you know or think you know.

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Credit: Kim Syberg www.artstation.com/kimsyberg

Don't be a Nerf Herder.

• Center for Creative Leadership found a whopping 77% of organizations noticed a marked improvement in their leadership skills after taking part in a leadership development program.
• Bersin & Associates discovered that businesses with a robust leadership development program saw a 37% increase in employee retention rates.
• HR .com revealed that as much as 86% of companies observed improved employee engagement and higher morale thanks to leadership training programs.

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Credit: PraytheReyAway

Let go, Luke:
To achieve transformation, leaders must learn to value themselves and make development intensely personal. As Yoda once said, "Do. Or do not. There is no try."

Transformation is not an easy process. It requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow. It often requires an expert to present new ideas and perspectives. As Obi-Wan said, "Your eyes can deceive you, don't trust them." Leaders must be willing to question their own assumptions and beliefs to achieve true transformation.
​Transformation is a necessary process for leaders in business, just as it is for Jedi knights. It requires vigilance, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow, then "The Force will be with you, always."

May the Force be with you on your journey toward transformation and leadership success.


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