“God Himself could not sink this ship!”
Titanic was the largest and most luxurious ship afloat. No expense had been spared in her construction. She boasted opulent state rooms, luxurious dining rooms, sumptuous smoking rooms with ornate ceilings and magnificent candelabra, and an elegant grand staircase. She had elevators, libraries, a swimming pool, a Turkish bath, a gymnasium, a squash court, even an eight-piece orchestra—everything to whet the appetites of 325 first-class passengers as well as all the rest. She was at the leading edge of technology, inspiring awe and wonder in those who saw her. And most amazing of all, her builders assured, she was absolutely unsinkable.
The Titanic thus embodied a spirit of invulnerability characteristic of the times. In fact, when at the beginning of her maiden voyage one of the deck hands was asked whether the ship really was unsinkable, he replied, “God Himself could not sink this ship!”
It was an idle boast that would, of course, prove catastrophically hollow within a few days. Its greatest strength became it greatest demise.
In my experience, each of us embody a Titanic strength that can lead to our downfall.
For example
A detail oriented accountant who becomes a manager. Become MICRO manager.
A results driven sales executive- that becomes a results driven leader who steps and exhausts those they manage and leaves a wake of destruction in their path.
The sales reps who is networking machine but when their network dries up forgets how to pick the phone to make a cold.
Overusing or misusing a strength can become an issue. Can you think of times when this was/is the case? I can raise my hand numerous times. Too be honest it’s quite humbling when someone says to what you perceive as your greatest strength has become a weakness.
You might say, “Oh but Tony it’s because I am this way it what’s got me to this point.” Been there said that myself before. That where I was told just because it got you here it doesn’t mean it will take to you to the next step. As a leader you have to be careful that your strength doesn’t become a crutch.
One of best ways I have is to find out if your Titanic strength(s) has become a hindrance is asking a few people who are close to “When have you seen my strength in as a hindrance? Do you notice a pattern of when it happens? Warning prepare yourself it may knock you on your butt. So don’t be surprised or defensive. It’s feedback. Simply feedback.
Don’t get me wrong there is nothing wrong with having a strength just be sure you keep it in check.
Here are few ideas to keep certain strengths in balance. These are strengths people notice.
Candor- Walk in the others person shoes for a moment.
Take Charge-Learn the power of delegation. You don’t have to do it all yourself.
Kindness-Set your standards of what you will accept. Be willing to say no.
Big Picture Thinking-Provide details to those who need them.
Dedication to work- Explore the benefits to play because when you die you can’t take it all with you.
‘Recognizing your talents doesn’t mean believing they’re limitless. Accepting your strengths doesn’t lead to pride, but instead to humility; you’re less likely to resent what others have if you understand your own bounty.’
Gina Barreca
In ending, take an inventory of your strengths and ensure that you don’t focus on so much that they become your Titanic.
Equip, Educate, Empower, and Encourage others to become better leaders!
Tony Jalan
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