As people strive for progress and improvement, it’s essential to consider how we do it. One approach that is used is lowering the bar to accommodate the lowest common denominator. Real leadership isn’t about lowering the bar. It’s about raising peopler up. Here are some of the effects it has in real life.
Stifling Potential and Growth
One of the most significant dangers of lowering the bar is that it stifles individual and collective potential. When we lower standards, we send the message that mediocrity is acceptable. As a result, people may be less motivated to push themselves, set ambitious goals, or strive for excellence. This complacency can hinder personal growth and the development of skills that are essential for success.
Diminishing Accountability
Lowering the bar can also diminish accountability. When expectations are lowered, it becomes easier for individuals and organizations to avoid taking responsibility for their actions and outcomes. Instead of holding themselves to high standards, they may fall back on the excuse that they were simply meeting the lowered expectations. This lack of accountability can have far-reaching consequences in areas such as education, business, and government.
Eroding Quality
In many fields, maintaining high standards is essential to ensure quality outcomes. Lowering the bar in professions like healthcare, engineering, or aviation, for instance, compromises safety and puts lives at risk. Similarly, in creative industries, lowering artistic or creative standards leads to a decline in the quality of art, literature, and entertainment.
Missed Opportunities for Growth
When we lower the bar, we miss the opportunity to challenge ourselves and others to strive for excellence. Higher standards encourage innovation, problem-solving, and continuous improvement. By setting the bar higher, we push ourselves to reach new heights and achieve things we may not have thought possible.
Self-Esteem and Confidence
Lowering the bar can also harm individuals’ self-esteem and confidence. When people are not challenged or held to higher standards, they may doubt their abilities and potential. On the other hand, achieving success through hard work and effort can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment.
While the idea of lowering the bar may sometimes be presented as a solution to various challenges, it is a failure of leadership. Instead of lowering the bar, we should strive to raise people up by setting high standards, providing support and resources, and fostering an environment where individuals can reach their full potential. By doing so, we can promote personal growth, accountability, equality, and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of life. In the end, it is the collective commitment to aiming high that leads to a brighter and more prosperous future for all.
See how a Modern Observer Group coach can help you create real leadership and achieve more in your business and life. Schedule a call here or contact us at the information below. Modern Observer Group programs are based on the Businetiks system as detailed in the book, “The Businetiks Way.”
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