Anthony Landale

Those of you who have been on a Future, Engage, Deliver journey, either by way of reading the book or working with a consultant, may well have been encouraged to get really clear on what you care about and then ‘go for it’. But some people – even when they have identified what matters to them – can still be plagued with self doubt. These lines (slightly adapted) written by the poet Christopher Logue speak very much to the choice we make when we overcome these doubts and ‘go for it’.

Come to the edge. I might fall.
Come to the edge. It’s too high.
Come to the edge. And I came
And I jumped and I flew.

This choice to ‘go for it’ is a breakthrough moment that occurs when people reach their edge, when they are not quite sure what will happen next, but take a step forward anyway. And, to a lesser or greater extent, this is what is required by any leader who, when they are guided by what they truly care about, decide to ‘jump and fly’. To get a different result leaders simply have to get onto the front foot and try something new – whether that is in having braver conversations, taking an uncharacteristic action or in suspending a limiting belief.

Reflection and practice
Take a moment to reflect on what you are like when you are guided by what you really care about and ‘go for it’. What’s your sense of ambition, what conviction do you bring and what impact do you have? Then consider what you are really going for this year.

Learn more about Anthony Landale, the author of this article – click here