We Reap What We Sow - Preparation (Part 2)

(Image by Dean Moriarty from Pixabay )

“To be a successful farmer one must first know the nature of the soil.” - Xenophon, Ancient greek philosopher and historian, student of Socrates, Circa 430 - 354 BC

Undoubtedly you've heard the old adage, "We reap what we sow"? Good or bad, we may never know the results of our efforts.

Every stage of the process is critical and worthy of attention. Therefore, this will be a multi-part series using the leadership environment framework and a farming analogy. This is the second installment in our series (Part 1).

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SOIL PREPARATION

Before seeds can grow, a farmer prepares—plows, levels and fertilizes—the soil/field for production. The same goes for leaders developing their people or themselves. They take the time to ensure the developmental environment/opportunity matches the person being developed, as well as meets the needs of the organization.

This step cannot be taken lightly. Leadership development is a vital and often expensive venture. If we don't take the time to ensure the environment/opportunity matches the person and what our organization needs, the chances of successful growth are diminished.

Thought: Your people are your most important assets. Developing them is a MUST. Do not "cut corners."

Action Item: Take the time to prepare for leadership development. Research opportunities for growth and match each developmental opportunity with the person and the needs of the organization.

Plowing the Field

Farmers plow the field in order to break up the soil into smaller pieces, to add air to the soil, and to uproot unwanted plants and rocks. Leaders have the duty to develop their people for the future. They partner with their people to develop a plan that can be broken down into attainable objectives, in essence giving "air" to the person's developmental goals and removing barriers to success.

Leveling

Just as a farmer levels a field to provide uniform irrigation and reduce erosion, leaders consider individual skill levels and developmental needs when assigning tasks and approving training. They ensure that all people within their influence have the opportunity to grow and thrive. Preferential treatment and favortism erode the leadership environment.

Fertilzing

Farmers test the soil to determine if the ground is suitable for the desired outcome and crop selection. If conditions are not right for production, farmers add soil supplements. Leaders do the same when developing themselves or their people. They determine the best environment/opportunity to reach the desired outcome and supply the necessary supplements to ensure sustained growth.

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Pam McDonald is a writer/editor for BLM Wildland Fire Training and Workforce Development and member of the NWCG Leadership Subcommittee. The expressions are those of the author. Neutral pronouns were used.