The Essence of Leadership: Take Good Care
Frank Talarico, CEO
As we conclude another busy, successful season, it’s a good time to consider how we got here. For me, like you, the first answer to the success we enjoyed in 2023 is our respective teams. I’d like to take this time to thank my team, many of whom you engage with regularly. From Chapter EDs to tournament leadership to support services, I learned early on in my career that it’s the people that make the difference.
Leading excellent teams is a privilege. Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge. These are not my words, they’re a mantra offered by the renowned author and organizational leadership expert Simon Sinek. These words capture, for me, the very essence of what it means to be a true leader. In a world where traditional notions of leadership often emphasize authority and power, Sinek’s quote reminds us of the deeper, more profound significance of leading others. It highlights the importance of nurturing and supporting those under your guidance, and in doing so, brings to light the transformative impact this approach can have in various facets of life.
At first glance, the phrase might seem counterintuitive to our conventional understanding of leadership. In most cases, the image of a leader is one who stands at the top of an organizational hierarchy, issuing commands and making decisions. However, Sinek’s perspective challenges this perspective by emphasizing the responsibility of leaders to protect, nurture, and empower their team members.
When leaders prioritize the well-being of those they lead, several remarkable outcomes become apparent. First and foremost, a culture of trust and mutual respect is cultivated. In such an environment, team members feel valued and appreciated, leading to increased job satisfaction and higher levels of engagement. As Sinek puts it, “When people are financially invested, they want a return. When people are emotionally invested, they want to contribute.” By taking care of those in their charge, leaders can tap into the emotional investment of their team, driving them to work collaboratively and enthusiastically towards common goals.
Furthermore, when leaders prioritize the needs of their team members, it often leads to the development of stronger and more cohesive teams. In his book “Leaders Eat Last,” Sinek discusses the concept of a “Circle of Safety,” where people feel a sense of security within their group. This feeling of safety fosters innovation, collaboration, and risk-taking, as individuals are unafraid of making mistakes or expressing their ideas. When leaders focus on creating this environment, they enable their teams to perform at their best, unlocking their full potential.
Sinek’s quote also carries profound implications in the context of mentorship and education. Teachers, for instance, are not just educators but also leaders in their classrooms. When they adopt a mindset of taking care of their students, they create a supportive and nurturing environment where students’ minds can thrive. It’s not merely about imparting knowledge; it’s about nurturing the development of students’ character and skills, helping them grow into responsible and compassionate individuals.
In parenting, too, Sinek’s wisdom finds resonance. Parenthood is arguably the purest form of leadership, as parents are responsible for the physical, emotional, and moral well-being of their children. By taking care of those in their charge, parents instill values, provide guidance, and offer love and support, all of which are fundamental for a child’s healthy development.
Moreover, this philosophy is equally relevant in the corporate world. Forward-thinking organizations understand that effective leadership is not about wielding authority but about creating a positive workplace culture where employees feel valued and supported. When leaders prioritize the well-being of their employees, it results in reduced turnover rates, increased productivity, and improved overall job satisfaction. This, in turn, benefits the organization by boosting its reputation, customer satisfaction, and bottom line.
One of the best examples of the successful application of Simon Sinek’s philosophy is the global tech giant, Google. Google’s approach to leadership is marked by the practice of servant leadership, a concept closely aligned with Sinek’s quote. “Servant leadership” has been the foundation of my personal operational philosophy since I first was hired by the PGA of America, twenty-five years ago, to assume a leadership role in the Southern California section. In this model, leaders see themselves as servants to their team members, focused on their growth and development. Google’s commitment to nurturing and empowering its employees has helped it consistently rank among the best places to work, attracting top talent and fostering a culture of innovation. While Sinek’s quote emphasizes the importance of taking care of those in your charge, it also underscores the idea that leadership is a selfless act. True leaders prioritize the needs of their team above their own desires for power and recognition. In doing so, they lead by example, inspiring others to embrace this mindset and perpetuate a culture of support and care.
“Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge,” serves as a powerful reminder of the true essence of leadership. It underscores the significance of nurturing, protecting, and empowering those we lead, whether in the workplace, the classroom, or at home. When leaders adopt this mindset, they foster trust, collaboration, and innovation, creating a more harmonious and productive environment. This philosophy not only has the potential to transform organizations but also has far-reaching implications in our broader society. In a world where effective leadership is needed more than ever, Sinek’s words provide a compass guiding us towards a more compassionate and impactful form of leadership. So as you finish what was surely a hectic and successful season, when you consider the role of your team in your shared excellence, always remember to “take good care” of your selves and the people around you.
Some Important Notes for Members and Associates
- A reminder that the 2023 PNWPGA Mentoring Conference is November 1-2, 2023, at Royal Oaks Country Club. My personal and profound appreciation to Taylor Made for their support and leadership in this event. My sincere thanks to our fantastic sponsors, aboutGOLF and the Freddy Initiative.
- Like our teams, our sponsors are critical to our success as a Section and as Chapters. Please join me in thanking the sponsors of the 2023 Pacific Golf & Turf Pro-Am Championship: Pete Trudeau with Pacific Golf & Turf, Amy Grogan with Hole-In-One USA, and Cody Faught with Mizuno USA. Additionally, my thanks to upcoming Stay Involved Education Sponsor, Tagmarshal.
- Two new opportunities for you to support amazing causes. The FREDDY Initiative Fundraiser Raffle is active, NOW. Buy your tickets to support this incredible mentorship program in memory of our Section’s late President, Mr. Sean Fredrickson. Lastly, give with a purpose by donating to the PGA National Day of HOPE campaign between now and Veteran’s Day (Nov. 11). Donations may be made here.
As always, if I or my amazing team be able to serve you, never hesitate to reach out to us.