*This post is the fourth in a seven part series on Energy Leadership.
As we continue to move up the path towards the seventh energy level, keep in mind where we’ve been. This level is the middle ground between being the victim and having absolute passion.
In all actuality, Energy Level 4 is a great place. At its core, people care. There is a genuine concern for others. A person at this level has a pure heart to help and support others.
Here is a great example: A PR executive has an open door policy. In fact, their door is always open. They have created an atmosphere in the office where their direct-reports can come to them with any problem, personal or professional. It’s a great place to work. The attitudes are great. The relationships are strong. So strong in fact that sometimes the boss takes the group out to lunch or after dinner drinks, just to have a more personal relationship with their team. Aside from all that, the boss is always promoting you. Not literal promotion, but talking you up, celebrating your achievements and successes.
All in all, this is fantastic. On the surface. Now, for some people at this level ““ the story ends right there. They have a genuine and sincere concern for their team, they show compassion and are dedicated to service.
But there could be more. Deep down, the PR executive keeps their door open and has a personal relationship with their staff for a different reason. Their public operation at Energy Level 4 is a front. They are actually operating at Energy Level 1. They are trying to prevent being the victim of dropped balls and problems in their team.
If that previous scenario isn’t completely true, there are still some drawbacks to this level. If a person operates a majority of their time at this level, it can be physically and emotionally draining because you can get caught up in drama or having too much sympathy for a situation. If that is the case, the focus is on being liked and not being productive.
At its core, operating at this level isn’t a bad place. These qualities of compassion and service are good ““ and necessary for any leader
How do you demonstrate concern for your team? Â And when might you get caught up in the drama of others?
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