As of today, only 533 people have reached Earth orbit – I had to look that statistic up.

Why is that important?

Because they had the opportunity to view the world — from an amazing place. They peered out of their space capsule to see the globe without boundaries and lines on a map. They had the advantage of seeing the whole — in all its beauty and simplicity.

They observed the earth from a new and different perspective.

If only we all could flip a switch and zoom out to see the bigger picture of whatever we are trying to tackle.

After all, we each have a unique view and although they may intersect, they don’t completely overlap.

How do we wrap put arms around a broader perspective beyond our own?

Our increasing interconnectivity probably helps – there is information flowing at us 24 hours a day. However, you still need to be willing to open the aperture and taking it in.

Think of “wholeness” in the context of an orchestra. Each musician makes an amazing contribution, yet he/she can’t carry it alone.

All I know is the minute you think it’s all about you … you are in deep trouble.

I have seen it many times and in many contexts.

Effective leaders aren’t the ones pointing the limelight in their direction. They are the ones quieting and consistently starting dialogue and moving the needle – even if it’s a bit at a time.

They are looking beyond their own world view and that’s the first step to successful collaboration.

Jeanette

P.S. This post is the final post in a series. For more information, please see “Why Do I Write this Blog” about “The Art of Leading Collectively.”