Written By: Kent Ingle
The new year is often met with great expectations. For some, it’s the start of a fresh chapter and developing goals that will lead to happiness, fulfillment and prosperity. And, for others, it’s a time to leave behind a season filled with hardship, failure and pain.
Many leaders can view the new year as an opportunity to kick-start new initiatives and inspire teams in an innovative direction. While there can be great anticipation for what is to come, it’s imperative that every leader reflects on the year gone by.
From Elon Musk buying Twitter to Will Smith slapping Chris Rock and Johnny Depp’s defamation trial, there are many key moments that have shaped 2022. And, then there was the landmark overturning of Roe v. Wade and inflation hitting a 40-year record high, which greatly influenced how people voted in the midterm elections.
Key pop culture, political and global events can teach lessons on how to lead (and not lead) into the new year. Here are five leadership takeaways from 2022.
First, unite through a common goal. During one of the largest global sporting events, the FIFA World Cup, people cheer on soccer teams from 32 countries as they vie for a coveted trophy. In the opening ceremony, actor Morgan Freeman said, “What unites us here in this moment is much greater than what divides us.”
Despite being rivals during a 90-minute game, players on the fields and fans in the stands demonstrate how people from various cultures can come together for a common love of the sport. Some of the most powerful photos have been of teams from countries with politically strained histories, including images of the U.S. players encouraging Iran’s athletes after they defeated them to advance to the round of 16.
With the growing tension in our nation and worldwide, you must prioritize unity. Variances in opinions and personalities are inevitable. However, disunity can destroy trust and social bonds, and it can disrupt a team’s workflow and productivity. Remember, a shared purpose and a mission can help your team focus on what brings them together.
Second, cultivate a service mindset. In September, the world said farewell to one of the longest-reigning monarchs, Queen Elizabeth II. Having ruled for 70 years, Elizabeth was remembered for her dedication to serving others.
On her 21st birthday, before she was queen, Elizabeth dedicated her life to serving her country. In a radio broadcast, she said, “I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we belong.”
Effective leaders develop a mindset of putting others first. Through this type of approach, leaders can create high-performing teams because they excel at group development. Focus on being a servant leader who is intent on listening, which will enable you to encourage and collaborate with others. Cultivate a willingness to serve without credit and recognition.
Third, focus on building morale. The workforce has experienced significant disruptions. First, it was “The Great Resignation,” then it was “Quiet Quitting,” and now it’s “Loud Layoffs.” Although it’s been around for a while, “Quiet Quitting” — where employees do the minimum of what is required of them — made headlines in 2022 due to a viral TikTok video. Then, in November, tech companies, including Amazon, Meta and Twitter, announced layoffs of over 50,000, known as “Loud Layoffs.” These growing movements can be disheartening to employees and employers alike.
To prevent a dent in morale at your organization, focus on the environment you are creating. If you want a healthy work culture, then you must encourage, empower and build up the people around you. Employees should know that there are avenues for their development and growth. They also need to understand how they can add value to the overall mission and purpose of the Organization.
Fourth, deliver on your promises. This year saw many shifts in governing leadership roles around the globe. One of the most observed changes was in the United Kingdom, with the resignation of two prime ministers within a few months of each other. The changes in power reveal to leaders the significance of keeping one’s promises.
After three years in leadership, Boris Johnson stepped down due to breaking his government’s COVID restrictions and other impeding scandals. And, Liz Truss resigned after 44 days in leadership because of failing to deliver on her promises, which led to economic turmoil. A leader’s inability to fulfill promises leads to a lack of trust and a loss of credibility. People have a desire for leaders who are transparent and honest. Make it a priority this new year to not overcommit; when you make a promise, see it through.
Finally, be a voice of reassurance. Early into 2022, the world watched in dismay as Russia invaded Ukraine. The ongoing conflict has led to at least 40,000 deaths and the displacement of 14 million people.
In the midst of it all, Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, has been a reassuring voice. Zelensky has stayed in the country instead of retreating. He’s been seen in the barricades, drinking coffee with soldiers and visiting injured civilians in hospitals. He’s been a voice in the world’s most influential meetings, including the UN General Assembly and NATO.
On the Independence Day of Ukraine in August, Zelensky said, “After six months of the attempts to destroy us, we are the free people of independent Ukraine. And this is the truth about our future. The free people of independent Ukraine.”
When people on your team feel discouraged, be a voice of inspiration and optimism. Focus on and celebrate the simple steps or micro goals that were achieved to move toward the overarching purpose. Continue to reiterate what the overall mission is and how your team will accomplish it together. Remind them of the value of their role.
When you take out your pen and paper this holiday season, reflect on all that has happened in 2022 and how you can work to be a better leader. Write down ways that you can positively build the culture of your team, bring unity to any differences, be a voice of encouragement and serve each team member. Plan what goals and objectives you want to achieve and the steps you need to take to see them completed.
Remember, it’s not so much about how many goals you can accomplish, but how you can apply various practices to your life that will develop you into a more effective leader.
