I recently had a chance to talk with my friend Chris Hutchinson, who authored the book Ripple : A Field Manual for Leadership That Works.

It reminded me of how much I rely on the side-effects of actions I take in any group of people. Often I’ll be interacting with just one person, but my impact will extend to those they work with, and those THEY touch. And so on and so on.

I suppose it’s inherent in the kind of leadership coaching that I do. I almost never meet or even see my clients’ co-workers or family. Yet those people are affected by the changes my client is is making.

The topic is a central part of my coaching sessions. I ask questions like:

  • How do you want people to see you?
  • Who will be affected?
  • What’s the larger impact you’re seeking?

You see, leadership is rarely about affecting an object or just one person. You’re part of a larger system and ecosystem, so the actions you’re taking ripple further than you’d ever expect.

Likely even well beyond the time you leave for your next adventure.