Four Cs to Lead By
Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowIn addition to being known as a pioneer in animation, as well as film, and the creator of some of the most beloved and recognizable characters in the world, Walt Disney was also responsible for leading and inspiring an innovative, industry-defining studio of “dreamers.”
“Somehow I can’t believe that there are any heights that can’t be scaled by a man who knows the secrets of making dreams come true. This special secret, it seems to me, can be summarized in four Cs. They are curiosity, confidence, courage, and constancy, and the greatest of all is confidence. When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionable.”
? Walt Disney
Although, in Disney’s words, the four Cs are the secret to making dreams come true, they’re just as easily applied to leadership and employee development.
Curiosity
Highly successful people have a predisposition for curiosity – and they’re willing to go to great lengths to satisfy it. From reading the latest business books, attending seminars and workshops, or seeking out a subject matter expert, successful leaders are forever on a quest to build their knowledge base.
Confidence
It’s human nature to gravitate toward confident people and the team you lead is no different. Employees take behavioral cues from their leaders that influence how they react to various workplace situation. Leaders who approach new projects or challenges with resolute self-assurance inspire the same from their employees.
Courage
A cousin to confidence, courage is undoubtedly essential to accomplishing audacious goals. Some of history’s greatest achievements and innovations are due to people who weren’t afraid to take a chance on a big idea. And if you were to look at their path to success, you’d likely see a pattern of boldly, but strategically, pushing the limits.
Constancy
Stability is a vital component to building and leading a productive, dependable team. Leaders who strive to be consistent in their words and actions have loyal employees who better understand what’s expected of them. And that understanding creates confidence and a more purpose-driven workforce that knows their hard work will be recognized and appreciated.