DEFINING OPEN

Having an open-mind is essential to increasing your understanding of people and situations. This allows a leader to make necessary adjustments when needed. An open-minded leader takes situational factors into consideration when making decisions. John Wooden used to treat players fairly, but not always equal. There were consequences to breaking rules, but they were based on each individual’s past record. A certain amount of flexibility, depending on the situation, allows you to see the whole picture.

An open-minded leader also takes into account the ethnic and economic backgrounds of team members. Everybody’s situation is different and having understanding helps also gain the trust of your team. Leadership, by in large, has to do with people and relationships. How you treat others will ultimately win or lose the respect of your team. Also, it is a leader’s job to find out what each individual can bring to the team. What are their strengths? What are their weaknesses? Why are they weaknesses?

Being open is thinking outside of the box. There are endless possibilities. Creativity is exploring and discovering your ideas. The best way to get a good ideas is by having lots of ideas. Brainstorming is a great activity for stimulating creativity.

A positive outlook can be important as well. Remember, you are leading this team or organization. In many cases, it is how you look at a situation. Although there is certainly a bottom line in elite sports in terms of winning, a positive attitude can help facilitate a comfortable environment for the team or organization. Is the glass half empty or half full? Life is about perspective. How do you perceive a situation? Have you explored all avenues before making a major decision?

Being open is thinking outside of the box. There are endless possibilities. Creativity is exploring and discovering your ideas. The best way to get a good ideas by having lots of ideas.  No knowledge is irrelevant. Knowledge continues to add to your toolbox. Brainstorming is a great activity for stimulating creativity.