Sideways Energy
A few years ago on a family trip, we experienced some crazy winds that were pretty scary. The wind gusts were enough to push our van fully into the next lane as well as onto the shoulder at times. I hate losing time on the road, but in order to keep us moving forward safely I had to drop to a slower driving speed.
The experience was a simple reminder to me as a leader: The most common threat to forward momentum is not what comes at you head on, but what comes at you from the side.
Most of us stay keenly aware of the distraction and disruption that come at us head on. On the road it becomes obvious in a split second when there is an obstacle in our way. In those moments we strategically veer around the obstacle as fast as we can and keep moving forward.
As a driver I have to stay aware of the barriers in front of me on the road. Similarly, leaders plan ahead and anticipate the obstacles that might disrupt their plan.
Often times the greatest detriment to our forward momentum is not an opposing force working against you (like an obstacle in the road); it is the subtle push or pull of sideways energy (like the wind gusts on the highway).
Sideways energy is typically not as obvious as a big gust of wind. It is rarely evident in the moment; but often shows up as a slow push or pull (over time) away from our common objective. Sideways energy is the great momentum killer. It slows progress and pulls our attention away from the main thing.
What makes sideways energy so dangerous is that it often comes from unexpected places. It can be hard to identify in yourself the words, actions and behavior that hinder you and your team.
As a tool to help us self-evaluate, here are a few questions to ask of yourself in the arena of sideways energy:
Do I have an issue with the vision/direction of my team? If I do, am I discussing that issue with someone who can help?
Do I have any issues with people on my team? If I do, is this relational breakdown causing me to engage differently?
Do I have any issues with the culture of my team? If I do, am I working to adjust or am I asking people to adjust around me?
Do I have an agenda? Is there something I am attempting to place ahead of the team’s vision?
When you work with people, sideways energy is bound to become an issue every once in a while. Remember that people rarely seek to create sideways energy. It is almost always a byproduct of a deeper need or issue. The key is to address it head on with diligence and humility.
