Leaders are Artists and Artists are Leaders
On Thursday, February 9th, the Sauk County Institute of Leadership (SCIL) participants took their in person SCIL day to the virtual format due to the forecasted heavy wet snow. The topics of the day included a discussion on emotional intelligence and a consideration of artists as leaders and leaders as artists.
In advance of the SCIL day, and in preparation for the emotional intelligence discussion, the SCIL participants read “Emotional Intelligence 2.0” by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves and took the assessment that was included in the book. During the morning zoom meeting, they discussed the assessment and how it is a valuable tool for examining one’s own tendencies and behaviors. Throughout the course of discussion, the participants realized that it’s important not to let some of those tendencies give us a free “pass” for interpreting situations or refusing to change or grow; rather the point is to know your own tendencies and to use them to have more self-awareness and self-management.
In the afternoon, the SCIL participants were joined by local Baraboo artisan, Alan Anderson. Al discussed art and craftsmanship and the influence and importance of artists in our lives and in the county we live in. Al talked about several leadership themes from famous artists, including that if you don’t have the skills you need, try to get them; that sometimes people need to be put in the stretch zone for the opportunity to change; and to show respect to your team by asking for and valuing their opinion. SCIL participant Greta Schaller-Alonso was struck by Al’s mention that “if you don’t have the skills you need, try to get them.” According to Greta, “Improving your skill level in order to be able to see your ideas come to fruition should be a key focus point for leaders.”
Al pointed out throughout the session how leaders are artists and artists are leaders: through problem solving, influencing, and gathering a following. He also pointed out that all leaders have confidence but can also have self-doubt; so while a leader might have a great idea, they might also have doubts about it working. He recommended that leaders should partner with those who can problem solve and come up with creative solutions in order to make those ideas a reality. One example he gave was the Warrens Cranberry Festival, and how the community came together to make a cranberry festival a reality. And guess what? It’s been a huge success that has benefited the Warrens community in many ways.
