Ask Better of Myself: instalment #2 (What can only I do?)
Ask better of myself is a series of mini essays that unpack how leaders can ask better questions of themselves. Questions that unlock. Reframe. Provoke. And interrupt entrenched thinking—so they can be better present to themselves and better for those around them. Enjoy.
2. What can only I do?
Leaders, like the organizations they run, so often suffer from chronic uniqueness. This is the misguided and risky belief that one is irreplaceable.
Fact: we are all replaceable at work. Eventually, every person leaves but the show goes on. The work continues. The brand endures. Pat in accounting might have known everything there was to know, yet they retired. Sure, it might have been bumpy when Terry first stepped into the role. But five-years on, well, sorry who was Pat?
Think about a longstanding organization over the course of fifty years. It brings to mind the Ship of Theseus. Does an organization which has had all of its people replaced many times over, remain fundamentally the same thing?
We are all replaceable at work. In fact, it’s so guaranteed that we should begin to actively train our replacement the same day we start.
Do you know who is identified as a candidate to replace you? Do they know? Are you training them?
It’s a problem when leaders make their job inseparable from their own identity. It’s harmful for the organization (and, eventually, harmful for them too.)
However, while we are all most certainly replaceable, whoever comes next will not be a replica. Which begs the introspective question: how are you different? What do you bring that is rare?
All leaders have at least one or two special attributes. Things for which they are known, that they can do which are especially valued. You’ll still be replaced, no problem. But, it’s good to know: what sets you apart?
I like to have those leaders I coach ask themselves:
What one thing am I better placed to do than other leaders around me?
What skill or competency do I have those others seem to lack?
I can certainly be replaced, and when I go, it’ll be very hard for them to find another leader with ________?”
Knowing what differentiates you from others helps you position yourself, and clearly articulate your value. It’s a handy thing to know today, but it’s even better when you find yourself in that next job interview.
- Jonathan
ps. Where’s your leadership journey at? I work with mission-driven leaders who seek breakthrough insights and want to create bold plans for themselves. How can I help you? Drop me an email and let’s talk.
