Those of you that know me, know that I like to read for fun and that my favorite Author is Malcom Gladwell. Most of Gladwell’s books deal in social sciences, and he does a great job in telling the story behind the point that he is trying to drive home. He, after all, was a writer for the New Yorker. Newspaper columnists need to hook their audiences with their writing!
While I had read and purchased a copy of all of Malcom Gladwell’s social science books, there is one book of his that would not be found in the social science section of the book store. Instead, this book, Bomber Mafia, is often found in the Military History section of the book store instead. I do not typically take interest in military history, but since I enjoyed Malcom Gladwell’s writing style, I ended up purchasing this book. In this case I found Malcom Gladwell’s voice to be familiar and safe. Because his voice was safe to me, I felt comfortable with going outside of my comfort zone and trying something new!
The same idea can apply to those of us that are martial arts instructors or those of us that are in leadership positions. One of my great mentors, Master Mary Treacy always stressed the importance of being someone that students know, like and respect. These three things that can be summarized into familiarity are imperative to establish to have an influence on students. With this type of familiarity, they will feel safe learning, going out of their comfort zones and trying new things.
We must remember that these relationships that we form will sometimes supersede our technical abilities in reaching and having an impact on our students. Yes, it is important to have a good and proper side kick, but that will not matter if we are aloof and unfamiliar to our students. In leadership, try to make yourself more vulnerable. This vulnerability will not only increase your influence, but it will also open you up to be a better student or follower!
