One of my favorite leadership coaching questions is “when was your last vacation?” Why do you think this is one of my favorite questions?
[featured-image single_newwindow=”false”]
Because the question reveals a lot about the individual’s leadership style.
When I ask the vacation question, I normally get one of three responses. The first response is the most typical from leaders. Most leaders stutter or look down at their feet while trying to respond. They explain how they go a “working vacation.”
Of course, my next question is “how do you define a working vacation?” Well you know what their definition is, right?
[callout]A working vacation is more working, less vacation![/callout]
One leader explained he always chose vacations with Wi-Fi access, so he could remain connected. While the kids played in the pool, he would be online working. When I asked him how his family felt about his choice he said they understood. As I listen to him justify his choice, I knew he really didn’t believe what he was saying.
Can you guess the second most popular response? Yes, you’re right! “I don’t take vacations!” The second response is offered by two types of leaders. The first type will defiantly look me in the eye and proudly explain they are to busy or important to take a vacation. If they take a vacation the world would fall apart. Losing vacation days is a badge of honor for them.
One leader I spoke with said he had to make sure things ran smoothly. He had to approve payroll and all transactions. So, I asked him what happens when he is out of the office for a business meeting, or he’s sick? He just looked at me with a puzzled look on his face. His response was “that was only for a short period of time.” I asked, “did the business stop? Did people stop working?”
The second type of “I don’t take vacation” leader is afraid to take vacation. This leader believes they are irreplaceable. They create conditions to ensure they are the go to person for their organization. As a result, they can’t take a vacation because no one else can do their job.
The last response is my personal favorite. So, what is it? “I take a vacation every year!” Once I open the door with that question, they begin to share the highlights and memories of their favorite vacations. When I ask them, “what happens at work when they take vacation,” they smile and say, “the same thing that happens when they are there!”
[callout]So, what is the lesson leaders should learn from the vacation question?[/callout]
Research confirms the benefits of taking vacation. Jill Ludema and Amber Johnson have identified three immediate benefits for leaders taking vacations:
- Identify and develop leaders
- Identify potential trouble spots
- Good for the mental and physical health of your team
[shareable cite=”Dr. Kim Moore”]Taking vacations are not only good for you as the leader, but also good for your organization!”[/shareable]
When are you going on vacation?
Your leadership guide,
Kim
Dr. Kim Moore | Your Leadership Guide | kimdmoore.com
0 comments