This summer I heard a priest at a wedding talking about the new couple taking their love to the third level. His examples were regarding the choices we make in relationships. The first level may find a new couple enjoying each other without much effort, while going to the second level requires each other to give more than expected, and the third level may be demonstrated by anticipating, caring more, meeting their needs, not yours.

I liken it to how you make sandwiches; is it a plain turkey sandwich – thrown together? Or does it include; mayo, turkey, lettuce and a tomato? Or do you hit the home run – add the cheese because you know they like cheese, put the pickles on the side, and toast the bread?

His message stuck with me as we work with clients that want to make improvements in their careers. They don’t want to settle for level one or level two, and are striving to find their path to achieve a level three in their careers. Working hard at those adjustments is not easy, but can be extremely rewarding, lasting in impact, and career changing.

So what area of your leadership development would you like to move to level three?

-Placing emphasis on the culture of your team, not just the process/results?
-Learning to be very clear about the desired end result you are striving for?
-Could it be a desire to stand tall as a leader? That may mean taking on the bullies at work and doing it with grace and comfort.
-Or changing a pattern that hasn’t served you well such as; micromanaging, lack of honest dialogue, bringing energy to the team, vs. waiting for it to be delivered.

Achieving and striving for Level Three requires a thoughtful approach to what you would like to adjust and make better. It requires action on your behalf. Don’t be surprised if you end up feeling better, having more impact, and more clarity of your desired end result.

Mike and Jodi are partners in Lighthouse Leadership. They work with individuals and teams in growing their leadership skills and effectiveness.