The Steersman: Leading with Heart and Vision
Ready to rock and roll like the waves of the ocean! Picture yourself on board a traditional Wa’a, the Polynesian-Hawaiian canoe. Amidst the rhythmic strokes of the paddles and the unity of the crew, emerges a standout leader, the Steersman. This unique style of leadership masterfully blends the foresight of the Outfitter with the deep empathy of the Bowman, guiding the canoe with informed empathy.
The Compass of the Canoe
The Steersman isn’t just any leader; they’re the compass of the canoe, always setting the direction. Their eyes are locked on the waters directly in front of them, listening for direction and necessary guidance from the Bowman, all the while anticipating challenges and opportunities over the crest of the next wave. The are set apart in how their head naturally sets the direction, but their heart informs and drives the passion for themselves and the crew.
They’re highly attuned to the emotions of the crew, encouraging each paddler in turn, all the while steering the best line forward. They understand that while the destination is essential, the journey and the bonds forged along the way are how they help move the crew from getting there, to racing there.
A Harmonious Blend of Vision and Empathy
In the Steersman, you’ll find a leader who embodies a harmonious blend of vision and empathy. They bridge the gap between the strategic foresight of the Outfitter and the deep emotional understanding of the Bowman. They chart the course with clarity, yet they’re always in tune with the heartbeat of the team, sensing every shift in mood and motivation.
Guiding with Intellect and Heart
The Steersman’s leadership style is both cerebral and compassionate. They’re thinkers, always planning ahead, but they’re also feelers, deeply connected to the emotions of the crew. Drawing from the Power-Influence Mosaic, their power is not coercive but referent. Their influence draws from a blend of visionary guidance flowing from deep emotional connection with each crew member.
The Power of the Steersman
The Steersman’s power is broad and effectively multifaceted. They receive respect as a result of their visionary guidance, consistently seeing and sharing the bigger picture. Yet, their influence doesn’t stop at intellect; it’s also deeply felt emotional connection. They work with each crew member on a personal level, drawing out their crew member’s aspirations, fears, and dreams. They are the touchstone of the crew, the one team members turn to for both direction and understanding, they make “One Crew – One Canoe” possible.
Leading with Clarity and Vision
Reflecting their strengths, the Steersman remains grounded and approachable. They consistently show that leadership isn’t about over powering others but is about gently guiding crew to the desired outcome. They encourage the crew members reminding them that they are always ready to listen and support. If they need to guide and steer, the execute on that. However, if nurturing is necessary, they can and do. While they set the course with clarity, they allow the spirit and energy of the crew to help decide the most effective way to the destination.
Creating Unity through “One Crew – One Canoe!”
The Steersman, perhaps reflecting the tradition of Polynesian Wa’a, embodies the spirit of unity to and for the crew. They ensure that the crew actively pursue and executes on the values embodied by “One Crew – One Canoe!” They value each voice that governs each paddle, understanding that each plays paddle has a specific role along the way to smashing goals.
Setting Direction for Crew and Canoe
Imagine being on a canoe, with the Steersman at the helm. They are the ultimate guide, always knowing the direction while ensuring everyone is headed in the right direction together. They perfectly blend strategy and compassion, instinctively and competently guiding the canoe’s crew with both mind and heart.
Leadership Blending Hearts and Smarts
Wrapping up our voyage, the Steersman stands forth as gentle, informed and effective leadership. They remind us that it is critical to have someone set the course for the canoe by powering empathy with intellect. With the Steersman guiding the way, the crew is able to race effectively on the best, most impactful line to set their team on shore as the winners. Emotion and empathy for their own sake are not useful. But powering that empathy with a intellect super charges its effectiveness personally and professionally.
When working with the Steersman, we would to well to remember that they are the guiding spirit of the Wa’a. They remind us that effective leadership sets the path forward for the crew with both clarity and compassion and thus they conquer goals.
[DESCRIPTION]:
Steersman (Style A/B): Combining foresight with empathy, they guide the team with purpose. They hold both intellectual and emotional power, offering visionary guidance while understanding the team’s emotional needs.
Style A/B: Blended Leadership – Steersman (HEART – INTELLECT)
Role: Steers the individual canoe
The Steersman combines the foresight of the Outfitter with the empathy of the Bowman. Guides the team with a sense of purpose and direction.
Power & Influence: Holds both intellectual and emotional power. Their influence is a blend of visionary guidance and understanding the emotional needs of the team.