What do leaders have that sets them apart from everyone else? I would argue that it’s their mindset. A real leader has an approach state of mind. What do I mean by that? Well, think about it. There are two states of mind, the Approach State and Avoid State. Take a look at how you react or respond to what’s going on around you when you are in either state. When in the Approach State, you are inspired by the success of others, you are an encourager, you see the big picture and seek solutions and you are a coach not a criticizer. When in the Avoid State, you are threatened by the success of others, you’re a discourager, demotivated by obstacles and criticize instead of coach.
We place a big-time focus on developing a leadership state of mind in Lead with Emotional Intelligence and Take the Lead! If you haven’t done so, I would highly recommend you check out the many options we have for leadership training. What’s more important than your state of mind?
Being a leader from the Avoid State is simply not going to happen. When you are in this state, you avoid difficult to manage tasks and relationships, and in turn people avoid you. Conversely, when you are in the Approach State, you approach difficult to manage tasks and relationships, and in turn people approach you. If you aren’t in the Approach State, you can get there! When you get into the Approach State, you help those around you get to higher ground.
Check out this episode of the RedRock Leadership podcast, “How to Develop a Leader’s State of Mind,” and I will help you develop a leader’s state of mind and stay there!

Jeff Ruby
Founder & CEO of RedRock Leadership