Exceptional leaders make an effort to learn constantly. Reading my Leadership Tip of the Week indicates you belong in that category.

As noted in previous tips as well as presentations and workshops, many ways to learn are available. However, the most cost-effective method of learning comes from Eleanor Roosevelt who said:

“Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.”

What can we learn from the Florida Marlins’ situation?

It didn’t seem to take much for the Marlins’ Major League Baseball team to jump from no cases of players, coaches, and staff contracting COVID-19 to 17 cases within days.

There were strict rules, guidelines, and precautions established. The awareness level of the dangers was extremely high. So how could this happen?

As this article notes, perhaps one or more of those involved let their guard down or didn’t take the threat of getting the virus seriously. Or maybe they became impatient or thought they were invulnerable.

Regardless of how this happened, let’s heed Mrs. Roosevelt’s advice and learn from this mistake.

Leadership Tip
Take COVID-19 seriously and don’t let your guard down.

Here are five suggestions to consider:
•Do not assume the virus will bypass you, your loved ones, and/or those on your team.
•Continue to attentively follow the advice of qualified medical experts.
•Review and revise your operating and safety plans frequently.
•Demand your team members diligently adhere to the guidelines and safety plans.
•Share stories of people who didn’t and emphasize the price they’re paying.

Let’s remember to be patient as we go through this challenging time. At the same time, let’s support those around us and our community by doing our part to remain safe and healthy.

Whether it’s the virus or another business-related leadership issue, the cost of not learning from the mistakes of others is high.