FizzleFighting

The job of firefighters is to put fires out.  The role of leaders is the opposite.  They understand that their job is to stoke the fire (aka, organizational energy), knowing full well that untended fires fizzle out.  

Wise leaders foster sustained and healthy energy flow (i.e., "fire") in these ways:

• Relentless focus on the MAIN THING (and purposeful de-emphasis of the non-).
• Communicating clearly, simply, and often - openness and full disclosure are a way of life.
• Creating a sense of community and care - untended fires fizzle out.
• Consistent adding of more fuel - steady flow of new learning, safety for risk-taking, support when a pilot project crashes, etc.
• Habitizing rituals - celebrations, recognitions, affirmations - always taking time to recognize and honor the good stuff and right-minded people.
• An unwavering messaging of getting better and doing better, for the good of all (not just the bottom line).  

Strong leaders are both ignition catalyst for great organizational energy and fizzle-fighter-in-residence.

Light the fire, keep it burning.