Jun14
As my lad ponders on the lessons he's learned from his Dad, which in all honesty are mainly focused on getting from one potty to another without breaking the seal, I think about the upcoming Father's Day and take a moment to appreciate the leadership lessons we've learned from the Dads in our lives, in their own special ways.
Here's a few gems my Dad taught me that have served me well both at home and in the office:
"Because I said so" - The ultimate executive decision.
"Ah sure, it’ll be grand!" - Staying positive under pressure.
"Ask your mother" - Delegation at its finest.
"Pull the other one, it has bells on it." - Recognising when something sounds too good to be true.
"Money doesn’t grow on trees" - Budgeting and financial management 101.
"Were you born in a barn?" - A gentle reminder about maintaining a professional workspace (and home space).
"Who’s she, the cat’s mother?" - Ensuring everyone gets proper recognition.
"Don’t make me turn this car around!" - Effective conflict resolution.
"You’re as useful as a chocolate teapot." - Recognising inefficiencies.
"If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it." - Operational efficiency.
"You’ve a head on you like a sieve." - The importance of attention to detail.
"Who touched the thermostat?" - Resource management.
"What’s the magic word?" - Cultivating a culture of respect and gratitude.
"I brought you into this world, I can take you out." - Keeping the team in line.
Thanks, Dad, for teaching us the ropes with a smile and some great humour. Happy Father's Day everyone!
By Dara Kiernan
Keywords: Coaching, Leadership, Management