Leaders Are Catalysts for Energy

The dictionary definition of a catalyst: 

“A substance that speeds up a chemical reaction or allows it to occur under milder conditions. It achieves this by lowering the activation energy barrier 

In conversations we regularly hear from senior leaders that things are taking too long to happen. Words like “they don’t take ownership” and “they won’t make decisions” describe the perceived symptoms. 

I am always worried when blame kicks in, “they don’t, they won’t”. As a senior leader if my people aren’t showing up as they might, I may be pointing a finger at them, but four fingers of my hand are pointing right back at me.  It is my job to create the conditions, as the definition says, to lower the activation energy barrier.

People are energised when they are clear. Clear about the:

• Context

• Purpose (why the task or responsibility matters)

• Outcome 

• Results 

• Timing

In addition the catalyst leader needs to ensure that the person feels secure. People take action when they feel supported, that the leader has their back. George Kohlrieser (“Care to Dare”) talks about the leader as a belayer.  You stand at the bottom of the cliff whilst they climb the mountain, holding a safety rope to catch them if they fall.  

They must also be clear that if anything changes they should inform you immediately so any needed adjustments can be made. This is because you are the person responsible for the task you have delegated, owning this responsibility gives your people the freedom to take action.

#happysundayevenings is all about creating the workspace in which people not only feel safe, but also energised and truly empowered to take action. Next time you catch yourself saying “They…” ask yourself: “How effective am I being as a catalyst in creating the environment where people move quickly to action?”