Life is defined by lack of attention,
whether it be to cleaning windows
or trying to write a masterpiece.
– Nadia Boulanger
In his post, The Art of Balance, the Art of Leadership, Don Frederiksen commented, “I have always thought that my music background brought creativity, dimension and balance to my thinking and work.” Wow, that really resonated with me, since I had been a musical conductor for over 40 years. I realize daily how important the leadership skills that a conductor knows are really valuable to leaders in other fields.
Art is sometimes defined as giving attention to detail. Striving for balance does not only mean that we keep the trumpets from covering up the rest of the orchestra. It also means that we give attention to the details, in order to be faithful in implementation of our vision as the leader. Balance does not mean making everything equal. Balance means creating consistency and quality in all systems, relationships, and in the culture itself.
Listening is a skill musicians bring to leadership. As a business coach, I have discovered that listening is the key skill in order to know what is really happening.
Remember your past. I gain much from remembering my musical skills and experience. It gives me perspective for creating value in the lives of others.
Hugh Ballou
The Transformational Leadership Strategist