LinkedIn has become a very interesting place to find information on people, companies, technical information, and leadership attributes and approaches. Though there is quite a bit of worthless information, once in awhile, there is something that really matters or makes an excellent point. This past weekend, I saw a very simple comment that said, “Be a warrior, not a worrier.” Simple, but so very important.
Why is it important to be a warrior versus a worrier? For one, a worrier impedes progress. This type of individual always wants more information, needs more discussion, requires additional data, etc., etc. This individual also is typically negative and brings others down. A warrior, on the other hand, is usually willing to take on the impossible. A warrior also helps us envision more than what we can see, rather than limit us to the details we can see and touch. In short, we need warriors! We need individuals that are not afraid to march into the unknown. Certainly, we must never forge ahead without proper caution, but the point is, we need less worry and more action.
What are the characteristics of a warrior? Do the characteristics identified below ring true for you?
Comparison of a Warrior with a Worrier
| Characteristics of a “Warrior” | Characteristics of a “Worrier” |
| Is not afraid to take a measured risk | Is risk averse – very reluctant to take any action unless all risks have been identified and eliminated |
| Asks “why not” | Asks “why” |
| Is energized by a challenge | Is often defeated by a challenge |
| Recognizes that failure may occur, but every failure represents an opportunity to learn and grow | Is afraid of failure and will avoid it by avoiding action |
| Looks for ways to make something happen, even if there are obstacles | Is blinded by any potential obstacles that might be perceived |
| Has an action default and becomes impatient when we do not make progress | Has a “let’s discuss it further” default and becomes impatient when others want to go faster |
| Is concerned that he/she will make the mistake of not doing enough | Is concerned that he/she will make a mistake by doing something |
| Is the person you always want on your team with you | Is the person you always want on the other team |
So, are you a warrior or a worrier? Are you the person others want on their team? Are you making a difference for your team or your company?
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