Pragmatic is a leadership style that puts practical results over theory and emotion. It is an approach to problem-solving that asks, “What is the smartest, most useful thing I can do right now?” It’s not about wishing things were different or giving up on hope, but rather working with what is. Pragmatic people focus on what will work and are able to adapt to change. This is a helpful mindset when the world is changing so fast that it can be difficult to keep up.
It’s important for pragmatic leaders to be self-aware so they know their strengths and weaknesses. They also need to be receptive to constructive feedback from employees, which helps them grow as leaders. Pragmatic leaders are often great communicators, which helps them build trusting relationships with their teams. They also know how to get things done without getting bogged down in the details.
Being a pragmatic person means that you have a more flexible mindset and are willing to let go of beliefs that don’t serve you anymore. For example, if you were raised in a certain way that no longer works for you, it’s ok to abandon those traditions and move on to something new.
This pragmatic philosophy also makes it easier to find solutions when faced with obstacles. For example, if you’re trying to figure out how to get around an obstacle in a project or plan, it’s more efficient to think of several possible ways to tackle it than to spend time debating the pros and cons of each option.
Another benefit of pragmatic thinking is that it allows you to see the bigger picture. This can be especially beneficial when you’re tackling complex issues, such as finding the best way to bring an idea to life or creating a sustainable business model. When you take the long-term view into account, it can help you make better decisions that are more aligned with your goals and values.
While being pragmatic can be a positive trait, it can also have its downsides. One of the most common is a lack of empathy for others, which can make you seem cold or unfeeling. Another concern is that being too pragmatic can cause you to miss out on taking risks or being creative. You may also miss out on opportunities because you’re unable to imagine what could happen.
To overcome these issues, it’s important to practice self-awareness and learn to accept feedback from your teammates and peers. You can do this by making a habit of self-reflection or participating in regular group or individual coaching sessions. Additionally, you can use tools like 360-degree surveys and feedback meetings to collect honest information about your performance. In addition, it’s essential to remember that the best pragmatic leaders are open to new ideas and aren’t afraid to try unconventional strategies. This flexibility can make your team more resilient in the face of change and improve their performance. Ultimately, being pragmatic can lead to more effective results and happier, healthier individuals.
