Cause and effect. This is the simple observation that one action can cause something to happen. A more formal explanation would be “cause-and-effect describes a relationship between actions or events in which at least one action or event is a direct result of the others.”
If you hit your knee solidly against a hard object a bruise may occur. The action of hitting your knee is the cause, or effect, of the bruising.
The rule of cause and effect can either be intentional or unintentional. You may unintentionally hit your knee. You did not mean to do it. Yet the effect is still present. In another instance you may choose to exercise on a regular basis. The action of consistent exercise will cause better health. The exercise affects your health.
The same can be true in leadership. A leader must understand that his actions can have an effect on the organization being led. There is a direct cause and effect between a leader and the people being led.
John Maxwell, in his weekly leadership podcast, shared three things that a leader causes in the life of the organization she leads. When a leader does these three things intentionally the effect is results.
A leader causes momentum. There are momentum thinkers, breakers, takers, and makers. The leader who makes things happen will have the effect of creating the momentum necessary to produce results.
A leader causes change. Change happens. A leader either initiates change, or reacts to change. It is proactive change that allows for increased productivity in response to what is going on in the organization. If the pace of change inside your organization is slower than outside your organization you’re in trouble.
A leader causes growth. A leader must continue to grow to continue to lead The pace of the leader determines the pace of the people. When a leader grows it causes those in the organization to grow. Personal growth has a direct impact on organizational growth.
Cause and effect. The leader takes responsibility to cause the things that will produce the greatest effect.