Why Our Teams Should Challenge Our Ideas

The other day we were having a meeting at Nurse Next Door, in which a team leader was presenting a new business approach. After they finished their presentation, they opened it up for discussion.

One of our newer, more junior team members spoke up. “I'd like to challenge that decision making,” she said. The senior leader nodded and said, “Sure – tell me what you're thinking.”

The junior team member went on to explain why they thought this new approach  might be difficult to implement, and offered an alternative solution for handling the same issue. We ended up brainstorming ideas as a team, and out of that, we came up with an even better strategy for addressing the topic.

Encourage Team Members to Have an Opinion

It's so awesome that we continue to have a workplace where everyone can speak their minds and contribute to decision making! In most companies, a junior team member would never question an idea coming from a senior team leader. But at Nurse Next Door, this is all part of having a Bold Kind culture. We believe that when we challenge each other (especially those senior to us), we foster a self-led culture in which team members take initiative and bring diverse perspectives to their table, without fear of repercussions. We also create an environment in which growth and innovation flourish.

Tips to Overcome Leadership Challenges

This work isn't easy. It can be really difficult for any team leaders to shift their leadership style, accept criticism or receive a significant challenge to their thinking. If you find yourself bristling when a team member provides a suggestion, especially someone younger or less experienced than you, start by asking yourself some questions.

To start with, how do you feel when someone challenges your ideas? What thoughts form in your mind? What emotions come up? What does it physically feel like in your body when you receive feedback? Do you feel tightness in the chest? Tension in your stomach? Your thoughts, emotions and physical reactions can provide so many valuable cues. Once you've identified your reactions, ask yourself: why do you think you responded in that way? What small steps can you take to help yourself feel more confident and secure in these moments?

Having an Honest Communication with a Team Member

As team leaders, when we ask ourselves questions and open ourselves up to feedback, we can create an inclusive environment in which create effective leadership and encourage team members to talk to us honestly and objectively. It's a win-win for everyone.

Learn More about Common Leadership Challenges

To find out lots more about effective team leadership, check out Cathy's book, Bold Kindness: A Caring, More Compassionate Way to Lead. And stay tuned for next month's blog post on how to overcome leadership challenges by creating white space and balance - we'll have some great professional development tips for team leaders on creating more flow and less stress in your daily life.