#from good

I now have two critical departments in the business process revolting during the testing process. On my way back from lunch Saturday, 5mins away from the office I got a call from a stakeholder UATing the app. She said one sentence, "This, this $hit is F.Uped!"

I got on the phone with all of my employees and calmly told them not to crack laptops and fix shit RIGHT now over the weekend. I just advised them that we have to get this resolved asap. To do this it might take extra, effort, and commitment from everyone to do everything possible to stay on schedule and retain departmental good standing. I was unsure I would get any results as developers are typically complacent and require alot of threats and pressure to change the mundane task forward thinking. Or so I thought!?

I learned over the years of management, that when you deal with professionals that a good leader driving them towards a common goal, they grab their laptops like as solder and take care of business for the greater good of the company. I realized that I was bigger, better, stronger boss...

I lead by example working hard all day.

Actively involved resolving and directing the solution.

I remained calm.

I mentioned the importance of our schedule.

Judged everything against time and risk.

And controlled client expectations.

It was hard to smile, but I did.

I controlled the communication paths closely by leading expectations.

I really didn't realize until today that I have upgraded to a new class of leaders.

...What changed?...

I changed, that much was sure...am I different...how does my garden grow?

*Lightbulb!*

Looking at how my team preformed, we all leveled up, not just me that changed! But I now figured out the secret, My teammates are not only one to get a great leader, we have a new CIO that isn't just an average or good leader, he is truly a great leader! He's watering me, encouraging me, and letting me grow.