The Wisdom of Hot Water

This fall, I was out to dinner with a group of friends, and as we got to the end of the meal, my friend, a journalist, ordered hot water. She explained that over the past year, she had committed herself to learning about tea, the varieties, the right temperature, and the length of brew. She had sampled teas from around the world and had come to appreciate their distinct fragrances and nuanced flavors. She said she had enjoyed a wide variety of green teas, Darjeeling, matcha, rooibos, and a deep exploration of black teas. And what she discovered after all of her explorations was that what she enjoyed most of all was the comfort and simplicity of a simple cup of hot water. This anecdote led me to reflect on three key insights: the importance of the journey, the power of simplicity, and the courage to embrace what truly matters.

The intentionality of the process is a crucial aspect of leadership. Just as my friend dedicated herself to exploring the world of tea, leaders must commit themselves to the journey of continuous learning and growth. This process involves seeking new experiences, perspectives, and challenges that push us beyond our comfort zones. By embracing the journey with curiosity and openness, we expand our horizons and develop a deeper understanding of ourselves, our teams, and the world around us. The intentionality of the process allows us to gain valuable insights and skills that we can apply to our leadership roles, even if the final destination is not what we initially expected.

The joy of exploration is another essential element of effective leadership. As leaders, we must cultivate a sense of wonder and enthusiasm for discovering new ideas, approaches, and solutions. This mindset allows us to approach challenges with creativity and adaptability rather than being constrained by preconceived notions or established norms. By fostering a culture of exploration within our teams, we encourage innovation, collaboration, and a willingness to take calculated risks. When we find joy in the process of exploration, we create an environment where our teams feel empowered to share their unique perspectives and contribute to the organization's success.

The bravery of the conclusion is perhaps the most striking aspect of my friend's story. After investing time and energy into exploring the complexities of tea, she had the courage to embrace the simplicity of hot water. Similarly, leaders must have the courage to make difficult decisions and choose the path that aligns with their values and vision, even if it goes against conventional wisdom or popular opinion. This bravery requires a deep sense of self-awareness, authenticity, and trust in one's own judgment. By demonstrating the courage to stand by our convictions and make tough choices, we inspire those around us to do the same and create a culture of integrity and trust.

In life and leadership, the journey from exploration to conclusion is a powerful one. By embracing the intentionality of the process, the joy of exploration, and the bravery of the conclusion, we can navigate the complexities of leadership with grace and wisdom. For those we lead and love, our willingness to embark on this journey sets a powerful example. It demonstrates that true leadership is not about having all the answers but about having the courage to ask the right questions, explore new possibilities, and embrace the simplicity of what truly matters. As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of leadership, let us remember the wisdom of hot water - that sometimes, the greatest insights and joys can be found in the simplest of things.

With love, gratitude and wonder.

Scott