Leadership Made Simple but NOT Easy – Achieving Cultural Transformation in Healthcare

Highlights Shared at the Telemed iQ Summit 2019, Nashville, TN

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By Michael J. Zappa, MD, FACEP 

Attaining most any goal or dream requires us to do something different, which goes against the natural human tendency to stay in our comfort zone. Transformation has to start with change, but we resist change until the pain of staying the same exceeds the pain of change...yes, PAIN is the catalyst and friend of transformation.

Understanding the difference between change and transformation is important. Transformation requires a change of culture. A change of culture requires strong leadership, the kind of leadership comfortable with creative disruption. To simplify the difference between change and transformation remember that checking off items on a “To Do” list can bring change, but transformation requires completing items on a “To Be” list.

If you want to lead, start by focusing on your own life first, for only you can be the hero of your own life story. If you’re not a hero, you’re a victim…and victims usually don’t make effective leaders. 

The best leaders succeed by using their leadership trident: with Passion at the forefront, followed by Inspiration, and Influence. One of the simplest ways to share your passion is through LOVE:

  • Listen more than you speak,

  • be Open to new ideas,

  • share your Vision,

  • Enjoy your work, the journey, and celebrate with your team.

Practice being an influential leader, not one who is simply a boss, only getting things done because of the authority of his/her position. Finally, remember to Inspire Hope. Without it you and your team will never realize your full potential.

So grab your trident and be a hero!

Influencing Your Team, Leadership DevelopmentMichael J. Zappa, MD, FACEPleadership, culture, healthcare, vision, inspiration