Leaders as Navigators in the Changing Seas: What Truly Defines Them?

We could say that organizations are like surfboards, always seeking the next big wave of opportunity. Guiding these surfboards through the turbulent waters of change is a tremendous responsibility for leaders. But what exactly makes leaders true change navigators?

Is change necessary?

The captain of a ship must know where it is going and how it will get there. Waves, winds, and currents change, as do seasons. Adaptation is essential for the survival and success of an organization.

The same applies to a freelancer or a solopreneur! Leaders should recognize the importance of change in an organization. They must be aware that the business world is evolving rapidly, and if they do not understand the need for change, they will lose credibility. The captain of a ship must know where it is going and how it will get there. Waves, winds, and currents change, as do seasons. Ships may take shelter in port, but that’s not what they are made for!

Who should initiate the change process?

The ship’s captain sets the course. Not the first mate, the helmsman, or the boatswain. He must be the one who initiates and supports the change processes. More importantly, the process involves developing a clear vision for change, setting goals, and allocating the necessary resources to achieve that change. So, to navigate safely, you need a map and someone who knows how to read it.

The best choice:

It is normal for leaders to be role models in terms of the changes they initiate in the company. They must show consistency in actions and statements to the team, showing that they are committed and dedicated to the change through their own actions and behaviors. Otherwise, the team can become skeptical and resistant to change. On a ship, when the captain did not keep his word, revolts or desertions occurred.

All eyes are on the leader.

Teams closely watch their leaders and observe how they behave during the change process. If leaders do not demonstrate their commitment and do not adjust their behaviors to align with the new directions, employees may lose confidence in their ability to lead the change. Similarly, crews on ships wanted their captains to know what they were doing.

A close connection:

The success of change is directly related to the leader’s behavior. The success of a journey is closely related to what the captain of the ship does. With discipline, commitment, and knowledge. If he does not support the change through consistent and exemplary behavior, he may fail to implement it. Just like a job interview when you have to support an interview.

Staying with the ship metaphor, well, not only the captain is talking. The crew, the discipline, and the involvement of the crew are essential.

When you are a freelancer or a solopreneur, well, the roles remain.

Only you have the role of captain and the role of the performer at the same time.

Each person has several roles simultaneously. We have the role of son or daughter, maybe brother or sister, mother or father, or boss or subordinate. Depending on the situation, we act in the necessary role.

As a freelancer or solopreneur, well, in both roles, discipline and consistency are required. Consistency is achieved simply, and at a minimal level, it sounds like this: you write what you do, and you do what you write.