In leadership circles, it is a universal understanding about the high value of young leaders. It is also well-known fact you should provide these talented individuals with freedom, resources, a flexible schedule, a sense of community, constant positive and developmental feedback, and an organization with a cause to change the world.
All of those are true but I have discovered something equally or more important you should give developing young leaders. Let me explain.
From 2012 through 2016, eight quarterbacks were selected in the top 15 picks of the NFL Draft. As rookies, these young leaders had a combined 37-59 (39%) record. They won barely over 1/3 of their games. However, during their second year as starters, a significant jump in their development took place. This same group of young quarterbacks posted a 63-44 (59%) record.
Here is what the numbers tell us – The Number One Thing You Should Give Young Leaders is PATIENCE. Give the the gift of TIME.
We have such high expectations of young leaders and rightfully, but we may actually be stunting their development. You can’t rush the process of growth. Everyone wants the harvest before the planting. We want Easter without Good Friday. We want gain without the pain. There is still great value to experience.
Do not unduly pressure young leaders. Give them time to grow and develop. Food tastes better coming out of a crockpot rather than a microwave. Leaders are the same way.
If you want to develop young leaders and watch them grow, thrive, make incredible contributions, and give your organization a sustainable future, then gift them the gifts of patience and time.
They will appreciate it and you will enjoy the results.
For the record, at the time of this writing the following is the record for 2019 NFL second-year quarterbacks. Let’s see how they are doing:
- Buffalo Bills Josh Allen, 4-1
- Miami Dolphins Josh Rosen, 0-2
- Baltimore Ravens Lamar Jackson, 3-2
- Cleveland Browns Baker Mayfield, 2-3
- Combined 9-8 (53%)
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