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leADERSHIP

How I see
Leadership

A director I respect often says directing is about two things: Leadership, and Taste. Both can be subjective, both can be acquired, but over time only one remains unwavering. Whether I’m directing, producing, writing, or supporting, I try to remember to focus on transformation.

For me, I follow a belief that LEADERSHIP should be transformational. Transformational leadership argues that major change depends on changing attitudes and assumptions at the individual and group levels. It is what changes cultures, and elevates communities. Sounds like a pretty great fit for a storyteller right?

Here are 5 things transformational leaders do.

  1. Inspire a shared vision

  2. Model the way

  3. Challenge the process

  4. Encourage the heart

  5. Enable others to act

Throughout my career I’ve had the opportunity to evaluate leadership styles and attributes. Two of my favorites that have been used by companies I’ve worked with include the Gallup CliftonStrengths Strengths Finder and the Insights Discovery. Results are posted below.

You can view Ben’s resume here.

BEN’S CORE VALUES

UBUNTU

“I am, because we are.” The belief that none of us can be great unless we all are great. The success of one does not come before the success of the group.

KAIZEN

A belief in cooperation and commitment to making small, ongoing positive changes over a period of time to create significant improvements.

COLLABORATION

I believe in sharing power and problem-solving. I favor possibility and fruitful friction over predictability and control. I create alignment, build commitment and boost empowerment.

DIVERSITY

I believe elevating and championing all those with diverse lived experiences allows us to make the deepest connections and tell better stories.

CURIOSITY

I approach every new project with innocence and honesty to discover the undeniable truth in the work. I don't pretend to be an expert in all things, but rather relish the chance to learn and discover.

PASSION

I believe that we must bring energy and excitement to every bit of our work. My optimism is powerful and I revel in possibility.

CliftonStrengths

Strategic

Ben’s strategic outlook makes him the ultimate problem solver. He doesn't just see complexity, he sees patterns where others see chaos. It acts like a sixth sense that allows him to decode complex problems effortlessly.

With every challenge that comes his way, Ben plays out multiple scenarios in his mind. In true director form, he’s constantly asking "What if this happened?" and "What if we did it this way?" This not only helps him anticipate potential obstacles but also gives him an edge in finding creative solutions.

Once he's mapped out all the paths, Ben becomes a ruthless decision-maker. He doesn't waste time on dead ends or paths that lead to resistance or confusion. He chisels away the excess, revealing the masterpiece that lies within.

Self-Assurance

Ben's got an unbreakable combo of self-assurance and self-confidence that makes him an unstoppable force. His unique perspective and judgment set him apart, and he's not afraid to make his own decisions and live life on his terms.

With his unshakable aura of certainty, he knows exactly what the right move is. He's not easily swayed by anyone's BS, no matter how smooth-talking they are. This self-assurance is like the unyielding keel of a ship, keeping him on track no matter what life throws his way.

Ideation

Ben is a magnet for ideas. He comes alive when he uncovers a beautifully simple concept that explains the complicated mess of life.

Ideas are connections to Ben. He's always hunting for those hidden links that tie seemingly unrelated things together. And when he finds them, it's like a fireworks show in his brain. Ideas give Ben a new perspective on the same old challenges. He loves flipping the script and seeing the world from a different, enlightening angle. The crazier the idea, the better!

Ben's an idea addict, constantly seeking his next fix of profound, clarifying, or even bizarre concepts. He gets a buzz whenever a new idea hits him, and others can't help but recognize his creativity, originality, and smart-as-a-whip thinking.

But who needs labels? What Ben knows for sure is that ideas are the ultimate thrill ride. And on most days, that's all he needs to keep going.

Command

Ben exudes a natural sense of leadership. Unlike some folks, he doesn't shy away from influencing others with his views. In fact, once he's formed an opinion, he's itching to share it with others and bring them on board. Restlessness sets in until he's got everyone aligned with the same goals.

He doesn't cower from confrontation because he knows it's a necessary evil to reach a resolution. While others might avoid life's harsh realities, Ben is all about presenting the facts and the truth, no matter how uncomfortable it might be. He values clarity and challenges people to be honest and transparent.

He's not afraid to take risks and actively encourages others to do the same. People are naturally attracted to those who take a stand and show them the way forward. Ben has that magnetic quality in spades. He's got the commanding presence that turns heads and wins hearts.

Adaptability

Ben lives in the moment. He doesn't see the future as a fixed destination, but rather as a place that he creates out of the choices he makes right now. He discovers his future one choice at a time, like a Choose Your Own Adventure book.

Of course, this doesn't mean that Ben doesn't have plans. He's not some aimless wanderer. He's just adaptable. He can respond willingly to the demands of the moment, even if they pull him away from his plans.

Unlike some people who get flustered by sudden requests or unforeseen detours, Ben expects them. They're inevitable. In fact, he may even look forward to them because they add some spice to life. Ben is a flexible person who can stay productive when work is pulling him in many different directions at once. He's like a multitasking ninja.

Insights Discovery

Based on Carl Jung's theories around personality types, Insights Discovery uses a simple and memorable four-color model to help you understand your style, strengths, and the value you bring to the team. Ben falls in the Motivating Inspirer category and is a firm yellow.

Motivating Inspirers are people who are enthusiastic, optimistic, and people-oriented. They are natural leaders who are good at motivating and inspiring others. They are also good at seeing the big picture and coming up with new ideas.

Ben's key strengths:

  • Adaptive and versatile people skills.

  • Investigative, interested, and inventive.

  • Accommodating and will help where needed.

  • Infectious enthusiasm.

  • High ego strengths.

  • Assumes both authoritative and democratic leadership.

  • Resilient and resourceful.

  • Can “go with the flow”, particularly where people are concerned.

  • His glass is usually half full.

  • Will join varying organizations to further his cause.

Ben as a team member:

  • Strengthens the bonding process by being responsive and perceptive.

  • Has strong personal and interpersonal skills.

  • Displays a strong people orientation.

  • Promotes ideas to, with, and through others.

  • Provides inspiration and ingenuity.

  • Has an awareness of the people's issues around him.

  • Maintains and generates high team aspirations.

  • Leads by personal example.

  • Provides charismatic leadership.

  • Brings harmony to conflicting factions.