Introduction: The Concept of Layered Leadership

In art, layers add depth, dimension, and texture to a painting, transforming a flat canvas into a dynamic and engaging work of art. Similarly, in leadership, layers of strategy, creativity, and execution come together to build robust and dynamic organizations. The metaphor of layers in leadership symbolizes the integration of various elements to create something more significant than the sum of its parts. This concept is not just a metaphor but a methodology and a framework for effective leadership.

Understanding Layers in Leadership

When discussing layers in leadership, we discuss synthesizing a vast array of knowledge and skills required for effective leadership. Just as a painting transcends the frame, leaders can transcend job descriptions to create more value for their organizations. My artwork, Gestalt, creatively illustrates this idea, where layered metal transcends the frame itself, symbolizing how leaders can go beyond their defined roles.

Leadership involves synthesizing information from diverse sources and integrating it into a cohesive strategy. This process is akin to layering different colors and textures in a painting to create depth and dimension. Each layer builds upon the previous one, adding complexity and richness to the composition. In leadership, each layer of strategy, creativity, and execution adds to the robustness and effectiveness of the organization.

Inspiration in Leadership: Flashes of Light

Inspiration for leadership, much like art inspiration, can come from many different places. I refer to these moments of clarity and insight as flashes of light. These flashes can come from a word said in passing, a painting, a play of light and shadow on a tree, a sunrise, or a song on the radio. These moments of inspiration have shaped my approach to leadership and strategy at Ware Malcomb.

One such moment of inspiration occurred during the construction of our new home on Nelmar Drive. Watching the building process from the ground up instilled a fascination with architecture and led me to study it at Kent State. Years later, these flashes of light illuminated critical strategic directions that guided our business to national prominence.

Historical Mentors in Creativity and Leadership

Integral to what I teach and share is that leadership is inherently creative. It involves synthesizing input from varied sources and bringing oneself to the team and the objective. Leaders must transcend traditional boundaries and integrate diverse influences and methodologies.

Leonardo da Vinci is a model for whole-brain thinking. He was not just an artist; he had diverse life experiences and many skills. Leonardo combined technical and theoretical training with interpersonal skills, profound curiosity, and interests in various subjects. I believe every leader should aspire to this holistic approach to learning and thinking. By integrating diverse influences, leaders can create more innovative and effective strategies.

Thought Exercise: Expanding Your Leadership Layers

To help you apply the principles of layered leadership, I propose a thought exercise. Reflect on the following questions and document your insights in an Exploration Sketchbook:

1. What are your current leadership strengths?
   • Reflect on the skills and qualities that make you an effective leader. Consider how these strengths contribute to your leadership style and how you can build on them.
2. What areas do you feel need improvement?
   • Identify the areas where you could improve. This could be anything from communication skills to strategic thinking. Acknowledging these areas is the first step towards improvement.
3. How can you incorporate diverse influences into your leadership style?
   • Think about how you can draw inspiration from different sources. This could be from other industries, cultures, or disciplines. Consider how these influences can enhance your leadership approach.
4. Can you identify a recent “flash of light” that provided a new perspective or insight?
   • Reflect on a recent moment of inspiration. How did it change your perspective or approach to leadership? Document this moment and consider how to incorporate it into your leadership strategy.
5. How do you balance creativity with strategic execution in your leadership?
   • Consider how you can integrate creativity into your strategic planning and execution. Think about ways to encourage creative thinking within your team while maintaining a focus on achieving your goals.

Take a few weeks to note your progress and any ideas that arise. Continue writing, sketching, and collecting physical objects related to your whole-brain thinking. This exercise will help you develop a layered approach to leadership, integrating various aspects of your personal and professional life.

Conclusion: The Path to Layered Leadership

Leadership, whether of a start-up, a large firm, a team, or any organization, must work as a whole across the continuum of functions and people, composed of many layers. Adopting the strategies and principles outlined in this blog will give you more positive outcomes and faster business and personal growth than you have known. Remember, layers are a metaphor, a methodology, and a framework for synthesizing the vast knowledge required for our lives and work. Embrace this layered approach, and you will transcend traditional leadership boundaries, achieving remarkable success in your journey.

Call to Action:

Ready to dive deeper into layered leadership? Get your “Layered Leadership” copy today and start integrating these principles into your leadership style for transformative results.