My husband and I ended our weekend seeing the latest Sherlock Holmes movie. I like Sherlock. He is unpredictable, given to many quirks, always observing the landscape around him, and smart as a whip. Albeit, he uses his smarts in ways many might not consider necessary for good leadership.
I also like Dr. Watson. He's reliable, well spoken, seeks to engage in satisfying relationships, caring of others, and, like Sherlock, also smart.
What I like best, though, is the combination of Sherlock and the good doctor. They are, together, stronger than they would be if separate from one another. And, while they can be irritable toward each other, they are tremendously loyal. Loyal nearly to a fault. Like when Watson decided to accompany Holmes even after Sherlock took ... shall we say "liberty" with Watson's new wife. You'll have to see the movie to understand that reference :-).
In the end, what makes this pair enjoyable to watch is the way they play to each other's strengths. One is the left hand, one is the right hand. And both hands are needed for success.
Playing to our strengths is, in my opinion, an exceptionally bright way to excel at leading. Making the "most" of your "most" pushes you and moves you into places you might not otherwise consider going.
What are you good at? How often do you push that out in front of others? Does your right hand need a left hand in order to get your strengths out in the open and used more fully?
Decide to be planful in the coming new year and extend yourself toward another. Ask them to be your right hand, perhaps offer to be their left hand. Whichever hand is needed - shake it! And enjoy the benefits of partnering your strengths.
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