#BecomingIntentional with Sangram Vajre

Being intentional is way more important than being brilliant - Sangram

The PEAK of intentional leadership

Sangram leads with this framework: Picture of success, Extreme focus, Authenticity, and Kindness (P.E.A.K.). Surprisingly, developing a Picture of success and Extreme focus (‘P & E’) comes easy to a lot of leaders, as this is what drives people to achieve goals. For these leaders, Authenticity and Kindness, can be easily overlooked for those who are eager to accomplish team objectives. Sangram asserts that the ‘A & K’ of this leadership framework are what keeps your team engaged for the long haul. If you can focus on spreading small acts of kindness with your team and leading with authenticity, you will see a more energetic and engaged team.

A Network of D’s: Dreamers, Doers, and Drivers

Sangram believes the most successful teams have a blend of the three D’s. This way, each person's superpower responds to another’s blind spot in the team. For Dreamers, they are innovative and futuristic, but may lack focus. Doers are detail oriented, but often struggle with prioritization. And Drivers have a motivating sense of urgency, but sometimes come off as blunt or unkind. This mix of team members can be intentional about their superpowers and blind spots, and find harmony when working toward a goal. Most importantly, it is vital to note that each D is unique and necessary — so managers, make it your job to seek out these different team players and recognize what they offer to the team!

Turning blind spots into hot spots

One piece of advice that really stuck with us was this: Double down on your superpower and turn your blind spots into hot spots. There is one (and Sangram emphasizes only one) thing you are truly good at, that others easily recognize in you, too. Focus on it and work to strengthen this to be a superpower. If you don’t know what this is, ask. Your teammates will be your best resource when it comes to knowing how you contribute to the team and where your strengths lie. Once you know your superpower—then consider its opposite blind spot. Surround yourself with people who have your blind spot as their superpower. Ask for feedback about where you can improve and places you may be falling short. Continuously ask for this feedback.

Sangram’s final piece of advice:

Build community. Use the people around you-- friends, family, coworkers --for feedback and support. To be intentional about the work you do, how you lead, and how you participate in your team, you first must understand where to put your intention. This comes with knowing your superpower and blind spot. Identifying these things will come easily when you have a community to help you!

A BIG shoutout to Sangram for taking the time to talk with us. Check out the full recording here, and make sure to follow Sangram on LinkedIn for more insights.