Lessons In Leadership – Never Chase a Skunk…

During my 30+ years in the corporate world, one of the most valuable lessons I learned was captured in the statement – “Never chase a skunk because the skunk has fun and you get smelly.”

Now, this will not be that difficult to follow. It’s actually very simple and the attached “Coach’s Rant” will help you further understand the importance of this very simple phrase. I guarantee that after you read this and watch “The Rant”, your first reaction will be to recall all of the times in the past when you got tricked, fooled or sucked into “chasing the skunk”. The next reaction I want you to have is to be more alert going forward about when you encounter a “skunk” and, no matter how hard the skunk tries, you don’t fall victim to being lured into chasing him. If you can master this habit (and there is no reason why you cannot master it – let me repeat – “there is no reason why you cannot master it”) you will have learned a very important time management lesson; you will be less frustrated and angry (everybody around you, pets included) will like this and you will be a better a leader. So here goes – a very simple explanation -

The Skunk – a thick headed; very opinonated (and usually wrong) person who attempts to engage you in what they call an “intellectual” discussion; or, the approach I like best – “I would like to get your opinion on something…”. I describe these people as “an answer in search of a question”. They have this uncontrollable need to be heard. I know you know who they are. You’ve met them and I know you have fallen for the “chase”.

The Chase – real simple – you engage in the “intyellectual” discussion. Here’s the worst part – you got into this discussion knowing it was wrong. Right? Admit it!

The Fun (for the skunk) – it doesn’t matter how dumb they may be. They are in “fun” heaven because by engaging them you validated every aspect of their position. And, now you think you can win. Even if you are right and punch holes in every aspect of their position, they are dumb to begin with and will never concede a point.

You get Smelly – those around you watching you get “sprayed” with the village idots intellectual scent will be wondering “why” you ever got involved and might wonder are you more like the skunk.

So here’s what you do -

First, know when you are confronted with a skunk. Their markings are very visible.

Next, be polite but don’t fall for the chase.

Finally, remember these lyrics from the classic Dionne Warwick song – “Walk on By”.

If you can follow those three steps, here’s what you will learn -

First, time management – should be obvious; you will not waste any time in this effort and can concentrate on something more important

Second, frustration and anger levels will not go up and you will be a better person for it. Everyone around you will notice it and be thankful (trust me they will).

Third, leadership – leaders lead by example. One of the points I make in my executive coaching activities is that others will notice how you handled this and will want to pay more attention to someone who knows how to work through the clutter and focus on what’s really important.

Think about it.