Yesterday’s snowfall gave us one of those simple, unexpected leadership moments, the kind that reminds us what it really means to serve. Monday morning started with an unexpected 2-3 inches of snow. Before patients arrived, before the day officially began, my first priority wasn’t getting the front walkway cleared. It was the team walkway in the back: the narrow stretch between the general side and the surgery side. That path is walked by the team multiple times a day to get to supplies, the break room, or (most importantly) our fancy espresso machine.
That’s where my scooping started because I wanted to show the team that they are what’s most important. It reminded me that a leader’s most important job is to serve the team. Leaders serve the team first so the team can serve the mission.
Simon Sinek talks about this in his book, Leaders Eat Last, that true leadership isn’t about authority or title. It’s about removing obstacles and showing your people that you’re in the trenches with them. Sometimes that happens in a meeting or through hiring decisions and protocols. Sometimes it’s grabbing a shovel and clearing a walkway before sunrise. It tells your team, “I’ve got your back,” before the day even begins.
The magic of servant leadership is it cascades. When leaders pitch in, it becomes normal for everyone to pitch in. Later in the day, when the break room had dirty snow sludge all over the floor, a dental assistant pitched in and cleaned it up in between patients without anyone asking her to do it! That’s the culture we’ve built around one of the core values of “Have Each Others’ Back.” Culture isn’t built through speeches, it’s built through small actions like this.
Yesterday was a reminder that none of us are above any job (big or small). Whether it’s scooping snow, running instruments, flipping a room, or taking out the trash every role supports the next and every task serves the mission.
As you go through today, look for opportunities to serve each other and clear someone’s path—literally or figuratively. You’ll build leadership that lasts, whether you’re leading from the front or scooping snow in the back.
Be well and do well,
Addison Killeen
P.S. If you’re looking to talk with me or other real practicing dentists about how to be. leader, join Dental Success Network! Sign up today to get a free 7-day trial and join our community of dental leaders where you can safely ask questions and collaborate with other dentists like you!
