By Rose O. Sherman, EdD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN

A leader recently told me she was considering accepting a new role outside her current organization. She was ready for a change in 2024. What she said next concerned me. I am not sure it will work out how I want it to, but if not – I will return to this position. I pointed out to her that it did not sound like she was ready to commit to the new role fully, and if she could not, she should consider turning it down.

Many of us who have been in leadership for a long time have observed the phenomena of a new leader joining an organization and leaving after a very short period. This type of leadership turnover causes staff distrust about leaders’ motivations. The commitment you show and the length of time you devote to your role can significantly affect your team in good and bad ways.

I recently worked with a safety net organization that had five CNOs in seven years. The financial picture for this organization was bleak. They were attracting candidates who used their organization as a career advancement launching pad. Morale was very low among their frontline leaders, who saw their leaders come and go. There was little psychological safety as new leaders cycled in, often with vastly different leadership styles.

Sometimes, there are good reasons behind an abrupt departure, but more often, it is because the leader has either failed to do due diligence or never fully committed to the new role. The philosopher Goethe observed, “At the moment of commitment, the entire universe conspires to assist you.” I have found this to be true in my own career. When I had not fully committed to a role or initiative, I was more likely to focus on why things were not working and seek validation for these beliefs. When I am fully committed, things seem to work out, even when the road is a little rocky.

As a leader, you must fully understand your commitment when accepting a new role. When in doubt, it is usually better to err on the side of not taking the position.

© emergingrnleader.com 2024

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