“When you maintain a closed mind you are not keeping other people from getting in, rather you are preventing yourself from getting out.” -Jason Moore
I have been indulging in John Maxwell’s library of leadership material. During which, I have learned a lot about an organization’s leadership lid and the issues that affect a leaders growth potential. One thing that bothered me about the whole thought of being limited by the leadership ability of my superiors was that I truly believe in 360 degree leadership. Under 360 degree leadership you are essentially able to help guide and direct from any position in the organization. What I came to understand, during a thought provoking conversation with some friends and coworkers, this morning at breakfast is that even with 360 degree leadership, you cannot exceed the lid of those above you. A great 360 leader can help elevate everyone around them, including superiors, but if the top stops progress then those under them will also eventually stop.
In the world of firefighting, especially within a leadership role, if you are not constantly raising your leadership lid, then those under you are going to become stifled.
The most important aspect in this journey is to maintain an open mind. If you close your mind then you fail to grow. Train everyday to make you and your crew reach the maximum potential and don’t be the limiting factor within your organization.
Fire Officer Mentor 