Page 12 - The EDGE Winter 2025
P. 12
Ref lections on Leadership Ref lections on Leadership
November 13, 2023 November 20, 2023
Creating a Healthy Work Environment Knowing, Going and Showing the Way
The quote propounds the importance and level of "A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows
safety and trust that should exist among leaders and the way." -John C. Maxwell
their teams. When people feel safe enough to be A great leader is an individual who can successfully
vulnerable and share their mistakes or ask for help, guide, motivate, and inspire the actions of others.
it speaks volumes of the leader’s ability to create a This famous quote by John C. Maxwell emphasizes
culture of trust and respect. This feeling of safety the importance of leadership by making it clear that
allows all members to bring their best selves to an effective leader not only knows the way to reach
work as they feel secure in the knowledge that their a successful conclusion for a task but also must go
mistakes and weaknesses will be seen as learning through the actual journey, motivating their team to
opportunities rather than instances of judgment do the same. A leader must also be a role model for
and criticism. When this happens, it gives people others, showing their team how to achieve success.
the freedom to take more risks and reach out for Hence, being a leader is about understanding and
guidance to improve their performance. Leaders are owning a desired outcome and displaying courage
attentive to their team members and work to create to traverse and endure the process. A leader’s self-
a supportive atmosphere that encourages everyone confidence and passion for the work must remain
to be comfortable enough to speak up. When people undeterred, and they must use their motivation skills
feel safe enough to share their honest thoughts and to influence the individuals in their team to have faith
experiences, it strengthens the bonds of the group in their abilities and to strive for success.
and increases loyalty, productivity, and collaboration. -Brian L. Mee, SFO, RSBA, M.Ed.
Creating an environment where people feel safe
enough to be their authentic selves is one of the key "Integrity as a leader also means doing the
ingredients in great leadership. right thing, even when it is not easy."
- Brian Mee
-Brian L. Mee, SFO, RSBA, M.Ed.
"“By the work, one knows the workman.” (Jean de
la Fontaine) I can’t think of a more fitting quote for
Brian Mee.
As I came into my role as Executive Director for
Iowa ASBO 3 years ago, Brian’s participation in our
Affiliate Executive Directors Group meetings was
professional and resourceful. In his ever humble
way, he offered ideas, suggestions, and insights to our
group. I quickly became friends with him. He lived
as he ended all his correspondence: “Respectfully”.
What an honor to know such a fine man! I can only
imagine how much he will be missed by his family,
his staff, and the State of Arizona. One life with a
tremendous impact and legacy."
-Mary Beth Fast, Iowa ASBO
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12 THE EDGE WINTER 2025
