Above and Below the Line: A Powerful Tool for High-Performance Leadership and Emotional Regulation
Running a successful company requires decisive leadership, clear communication, and a strategic mindset. In achieving organizational goals, leaders often encounter challenges and obstacles impacting their decision-making and overall performance. One valuable tool I use with leaders to navigate these complexities is the Above and Below the line model I learned from Jim Dethmer and Dianne Chapman’s book The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership. It is a highly recommended read for any founder or leader.
Using this framework, you can identify your thought patterns, take ownership of your actions, and make informed choices that drive positive outcomes for your companies.
Above the Line:
Being "above the line" refers to adopting a mindset of accountability, ownership, and proactive problem-solving. Leaders who operate above the line take responsibility for their actions and decisions, recognize their role in the success or failure of their company, and focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems. When leaders operate above the line, they demonstrate the following qualities:
Ownership: They take full responsibility for their choices, actions, and the outcomes that result from them. They avoid blaming external factors and instead focus on what they can control and influence—a BY ME rather than TO ME world view.
Accountability: They hold themselves accountable for meeting their commitments and agreements. They openly acknowledge mistakes and seek opportunities to learn and improve from them.
Solution-Oriented: Rather than getting caught up in negative cycles or dwelling on setbacks, leaders above the line actively seek solutions. They approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset, encouraging their team to do the same.
Below the Line:
Contrarily, operating "below the line" reflects a mindset characterized by blame, denial, and reactive behavior. Leaders who operate below the line tend to avoid taking responsibility for their actions and often engage in negative patterns that hinder their effectiveness. Recognizing the signs of operating below the line is crucial for leaders to break free from unproductive behaviors and patterns. Some common indicators include:
Blame: Leaders below the line tend to shift blame onto others, external circumstances, or factors beyond their control. This mentality hampers personal growth and inhibits progress within the organization.
Denial: Rather than acknowledging their mistakes, leaders below the line deny or downplay their role in any failures or shortcomings. This lack of self-awareness can hinder the leader's and team's learning and development.
Reactivity: Instead of approaching challenges with a proactive mindset, leaders below the line tend to react impulsively and emotionally. They may make decisions based on fear, anger, or frustration, which can lead to further problems down the line.
Utilizing Above and Below the Line as a Tool:
The above and below-the-line framework provides leaders a valuable tool to assess their mindset and make intentional choices that benefit their company. By being aware of their position relative to the line, leaders can identify their default patterns of thinking and behavior and consciously strive to operate above the line. Here's how leaders can effectively utilize above and below the line:
Self-Reflection: Leaders should regularly reflect on their actions and decisions to determine whether they are operating above or below the line. Honest self-assessment allows them to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to shift their mindset.
Mindset Shift: Recognizing the signs of operating below the line, leaders can actively work to shift their mindset and adopt an above-the-line approach. This requires taking ownership, being accountable, and seeking proactive solutions.
Creating a Culture of Accountability: Leaders can encourage their team members to operate above the line by fostering a culture of accountability and empowerment. By setting an example and providing support, leaders can inspire their employees to take ownership and contribute to the organization's overall success.
Leadership in companies requires a conscious effort to operate above the line, embracing accountability, ownership, and proactive problem-solving. By utilizing the framework of above and below the line, leaders can evaluate their mindset and make intentional choices that contribute to the success of their organization. By operating above the line, leaders set a positive example for their team, cultivate a culture of accountability, and drive the company toward achieving its goals.
